Looking for a comforting dinner option? This savory vegetable and chicken soup is the answer! It’s packed with hearty ingredients that not only nourish your body but also warm your soul. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Imagine a bowl filled with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered to perfection. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s a simple way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge while creating a delightful meal for your family.
The best part? This soup can easily be customized based on what you have available. Whether you prefer a chicken-based broth or a vegetarian version, this recipe offers flexibility without compromising on taste.
A Hearty Vegetable and Chicken Soup for Dinner
This vegetable and chicken soup combines tender chicken with a colorful array of seasonal vegetables, all harmoniously blended to create a nourishing meal.
Each spoonful delivers a comforting sensation, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a little extra warmth. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the savory broth, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
Whether served with a slice of crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup promises to bring a sense of comfort and familiarity that is quintessential to home cooking.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to this soup is the selection of fresh ingredients. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide the protein, while vegetables like carrots, green beans, and celery add both flavor and nutrition.
Seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices like thyme and bay leaf, the broth is infused with depth that elevates the whole dish.
Experimenting with seasonal vegetables can make this recipe versatile; incorporating whatever you have on hand allows for creativity while minimizing waste.
Crafting the Soup
To create this comforting bowl of soup, the first step is to sauté aromatic vegetables in olive oil. This builds a flavor base that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Once your vegetables are tender, adding the chicken and broth brings the elements together. Simmering the mixture allows all the flavors to meld, resulting in a harmonious blend that warms the soul.
Finally, adding fresh green beans and shredded chicken towards the end of the cooking process ensures that the vegetables retain their vibrant color and crunch, adding texture to the dish.
The Importance of Seasoning
Seasoning is a crucial aspect of any soup, and this vegetable and chicken concoction is no different. Salt and pepper enhance the flavors, allowing the natural taste of the ingredients to shine through.
Adjusting the seasoning towards the end of cooking ensures a balanced flavor profile that suits your palate. A sprinkle of fresh parsley as a garnish not only adds visual appeal but also contributes a hint of freshness to each bowl.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delightful on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the broth, adding another layer of enjoyment to the meal.
Consider serving it with a simple side salad or a light dessert for a complete dining experience. The warmth of the soup combined with the crispness of a salad creates a well-rounded meal.
Gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing a bowl of this savory soup creates moments that are both nourishing and memorable.
Storage and Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for a few days. Simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions for future meals. This makes for an easy and quick dinner option on busy nights.
By preparing this dish in advance, you not only save time but also ensure that you have a healthy meal ready at your fingertips when cravings strike.
A Hearty Vegetable and Chicken Soup for Dinner
This vegetable and chicken soup is a wholesome blend of succulent chicken, seasonal vegetables, and fragrant herbs. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavor, leaving you feeling satisfied and comforted. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Place the boneless chicken breasts in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Remove the chicken and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the green beans. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
