As the chilly winds of winter bite at our windows, there’s nothing quite like the soothing aroma of Chicken Vegetable Soup swirling through my kitchen. This hearty recipe is my go-to for combating the cold, combining tender chicken and an array of vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. Not only is this chicken vegetable soup a healthy option, but its quick prep makes it an ideal candidate for weekly meal prep, ensuring that dinner is both comforting and family-friendly. You can even whip it up in a slow cooker, making it a hassle-free meal you can enjoy any day of the week. So, are you ready to wrap your hands around a warm bowl of goodness?
Why is this Chicken Vegetable Soup special?
Hearty Comfort: This Chicken Vegetable Soup wraps you in warmth, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, like kale or spinach, for a nutritional boost!
Time-Saving: Perfect for meal prep, you can whip it up in a hurry, or let your slow cooker handle the magic while you relax.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table is happy!
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch, freeze portions, and have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.
Can’t get enough of hearty soups? Try my Chicken Tortilla Soup for a zesty twist, or savor the flavors of Sticky Garlic Chicken for something different!
Chicken Vegetable Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Oil or Butter – Adds richness and aids in sautéing the vegetables; olive oil is a great healthier option.
• Onion (1 cup) – Provides base flavor; can be substituted with shallots or leeks for a different taste.
• Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon) – Enhances flavor; fresh or jarred garlic works perfectly.
• Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced) – Your main protein source; leftover rotisserie chicken is a time-saver.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables (16 oz) – Adds variety and nutrients; fresh veggies can be used if desired.
• Petite Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Contributes acidity and sweetness; can substitute with diced fresh tomatoes.
• Tomato Sauce (8 oz) – Gives body to the broth; can be replaced with tomato puree if needed.
• Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Acts as the soup base; opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Dried Parsley (1 teaspoon) – For flavor and garnishing; fresh parsley brings a brighter taste.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Adds aromatic flavor; use Italian seasoning as an alternative if needed.
• Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon) – Contributes earthiness to the soup; fresh thyme is a lovely substitute.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; adjust depending on your preference for seasoning.
Enjoy crafting this delicious Chicken Vegetable Soup that’s perfect for cozy winter nights!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Vegetable Soup
Step 1: Sauté Onions
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 cup of diced onions and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant, which creates a lovely base for your Chicken Vegetable Soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, allowing it to release its aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as you only want it to become fragrant, enhancing the depth of flavors in your soon-to-be delicious soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 16 oz of frozen mixed vegetables, 14.5 oz of petite diced tomatoes, 8 oz of tomato sauce, and 3 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley, dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat then reduce the heat to low. Allow the Chicken Vegetable Soup to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup will thicken slightly, and the vibrant colors of the vegetables will become more pronounced, creating a comforting aroma in your kitchen.
Step 5: Season to Taste
After simmering, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors. Remember, the perfect chicken vegetable soup should balance the savory and slightly sweet notes from the ingredients, making each spoonful delightful.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the warm Chicken Vegetable Soup into bowls. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a fulfilling meal that the entire family will love on those cold winter nights.
Expert Tips for Chicken Vegetable Soup
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Sautéing Technique: Start with medium heat when sautéing onions; too high can burn them and alter the soup’s flavor.
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Resting Time: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking to enhance the flavors. This Chicken Vegetable Soup tastes even better after resting!
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Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for a more vibrant taste; however, frozen mixed vegetables are a great time-saving option.
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Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water during simmering to achieve your desired texture.
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Storage Tips: Freeze in single servings for quick meals; remember to label containers with the date to keep track of freshness!
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Season Per Preference: Taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring each bowl of Chicken Vegetable Soup is perfectly seasoned.
Variations & Substitutions for Chicken Vegetable Soup
Want to make this Chicken Vegetable Soup truly your own? Here are some delightful ideas to customize and enhance your creation!
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Vegetable Boost: Add fresh spinach or kale for an extra burst of nutrition and vibrant color.
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Earthy Twist: Swap out chicken for leftover turkey, creating a delicious post-holiday comfort soup.
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Chunky Goodness: For a heartier texture, toss in diced potatoes or your favorite pasta; both options make it irresistibly filling.
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Herbaceous Flavor: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried for a fragrant and lively taste that elevates every bowl.
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Creamy Element: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer, velvety texture, adding a comforting touch to every sip.
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Spice It Up: If you enjoy a kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to intensify the flavor.
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Zesty Swap: Replace tomato sauce with salsa for a southwestern twist, giving your soup a delightful zing.
Wishing for more hearty soup recipes? Try my flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a creamy treat, or savor the zest of Cajun Chicken Sloppy for a fun twist!
What to Serve with Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup
As the warmth of flavorful soup fills your kitchen, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it soaks up the rich broth and enhances every spoonful of the soup. The crunchy exterior and soft interior create a delightful contrast.
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Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup. Add cherry tomatoes and avocado for extra flavor!
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Garlic Breadsticks: These chewy, buttery treats add a savory touch to your meal. Their garlicky goodness pairs beautifully with every bowl, making each bite better than the last.
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Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with gooey cheese provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s warmth. They’re also fun to share, making dinner more interactive!
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that complements the soup’s flavors, ensuring you feel full and cozy after every bite.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright and vibrant, steamed broccoli brings a fresh element to your meal. Its slight crunch and nutrients enhance the wholesome experience of the chicken vegetable soup.
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Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like herbal iced tea can cleanse your palate between bites, showcasing the soup’s rich flavors without overwhelming them.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! Warm chocolate chip cookies can be the perfect treat that wraps up your cozy dinner experience.
Indulge in these pairings and transform your hearty chicken vegetable soup into a comforting feast ideal for any winter night!
Make Ahead Options
This Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup is ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For even smoother prep, consider cooking the chicken in advance and shredding it, keeping it stored in an airtight container. If you’re short on time during the week, you can prepare the soup fully and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. To maintain its delightful flavor and texture, avoid adding the frozen vegetables until you’re ready to heat it on the stove. Just warm it gently, stir in the vegetables, and in no time, you’ll have a comforting, home-cooked meal ready to enjoy!
Storage Tips for Chicken Vegetable Soup
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Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Vegetable Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the broth.
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Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months; this makes it easy to enjoy comforting soup anytime.
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Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating; this helps retain the flavors and texture.
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Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm; avoid boiling, which can affect texture.
Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! You can use shredded or diced cooked chicken, and leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a time-saver. If you prefer, you can also cook raw chicken directly in the soup—just increase the simmering time to ensure it’s completely cooked through.
How do I store leftover Chicken Vegetable Soup?
After enjoying your chicken vegetable soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.
Can I freeze Chicken Vegetable Soup?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your chicken vegetable soup, allow it to cool completely before pouring it into airtight containers or freezer bags (remove excess air if using bags). Label the containers with the date, and it’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What vegetables work best in this soup?
You can absolutely customize the vegetable mix to suit your taste! While frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers can add a delightful crunch and flavor. For an extra nutrition boost, consider adding leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
How do I adjust the flavors if my soup is too bland?
If you find that your chicken vegetable soup lacks flavor, don’t worry! Simply taste it and adjust the seasonings. Adding more salt, pepper, or herbs like dried basil or thyme can enhance the flavor profile. A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can also brighten things up, making every spoonful delightful!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Very! This chicken vegetable soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze portions for future meals. The flavors actually improve after resting, so it’s an excellent option for a make-ahead meal!
Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup for a Cozy Winter Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 16 oz of frozen mixed vegetables, 14.5 oz of petite diced tomatoes, 8 oz of tomato sauce, and 3 cups of chicken broth. Add 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley, dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir until mixed.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and ladle into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
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