Welcome to your new favorite fall recipe – Healthy Chicken Soup! This hearty and nutritious soup is loaded with ingredients that are great for your health and guaranteed to soothe your soul. It’s super comforting and comes together in less than 30 minutes on the stove, making it perfect for those chilly autumn days. Whether you’re battling a cold or just need a warm, satisfying meal, this chicken soup is your go-to. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded (or fresh chicken, poached and shredded)
- 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans (cannellini beans), rinsed and drained
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 Parmesan rind
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pot:
- Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat up.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot.
- Sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the celery turns bright green.
- Add Garlic and Chicken:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot. If using fresh chicken, poach it in the broth until fully cooked, then shred and add back to the pot.
- Add Beans and Broth:
- Add the rinsed and drained white kidney beans to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
- Enhance the Flavor:
- Add the Parmesan rind and bay leaf to the pot. These ingredients will infuse the soup with a rich, savory flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the Parmesan rind and bay leaf from the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Health Benefits
- Protein: Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle health and immune support.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables add vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, to support your immune system, especially during cold months.
- Hydration: The broth offers hydration and electrolytes, ideal for colder days and seasonal wellness.
Cooking Tips
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery first to enhance flavor.
- Simmer the soup gently to extract flavors from the chicken and herbs without overcooking.
- Skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a clear, clean broth.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or fresh herbs before serving to brighten the flavors.
Storage
This soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prepping or busy days. Just reheat, and you’re ready for a cozy, nutritious meal!
- Chicken: Use bone-in chicken for added flavor and nutrients, or opt for boneless cuts for quicker cooking.
- Vegetables: Classic choices include carrots, celery, onions, and garlic for depth of flavor. You can also add seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, or leafy greens.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and a sprinkle of black pepper enhance the aroma and taste.
- Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth or make your own for a more wholesome, rich flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Parmesan Rind: Save the ends of your Parmesan wedges in the fridge or freezer. They add a wonderful depth of flavor to soups and stews.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or kale.
- Broth Quality: Homemade chicken broth is the most nutritious option, but store-bought works perfectly well for convenience.
Nutritional Benefits
This hearty chicken soup is packed with nutrients:
- Chicken: Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and immune health.
- Vegetables: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support overall health and digestion.
- White Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious and Hearty: Filled with healthy ingredients, it’s both comforting and good for you.
- Versatile: You can customize the vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Cold and Flu Season: The warm broth and nutritious ingredients help soothe and nourish during illness.
Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
- Deglaze: After sautéing the vegetables, deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine or a bit of broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds a subtle depth to the broth.
- Taste Adjustments: Season gradually with salt and pepper throughout cooking. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar at the end can enhance the flavor profile and balance the richness.
- Creamier Version: For a creamier soup without added dairy, blend a small portion of the cooked vegetables and broth, then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, a scoop of mashed potatoes can be stirred in to add creaminess.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Beans are the primary source of carbohydrates in this soup, making it relatively low-carb compared to pasta or rice-based soups.
- Dairy-Free Option: Simply omit the Parmesan rind for a dairy-free version.
Why This Recipe Works
This chicken soup works so well because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and prepare. The combination of chicken, beans, and a variety of vegetables creates a balanced meal that is both filling and nutritious. The addition of the Parmesan rind and bay leaf adds a depth of flavor that elevates the soup from ordinary to extraordinary. By simmering the soup for just the right amount of time, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any day, especially during the colder months.
Conclusion
Healthy Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of warmth and nutrition that can lift your spirits and soothe your body. Whether you’re making it to combat a cold or simply to enjoy a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The ease and speed of preparation, combined with the rich, hearty flavors, make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful taste and the wonderful benefits of this hearty and nutritious fall recipe. Happy cooking!
PrintHealthy Chicken Soup | Hearty & Nutritious Fall Recipes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
Welcome to your new favorite fall recipe – Healthy Chicken Soup! This hearty and nutritious soup is loaded with ingredients that are great for your health and guaranteed to soothe your soul. It’s super comforting and comes together in less than 30 minutes on the stove, making it perfect for those chilly autumn days. Whether you’re battling a cold or just need a warm, satisfying meal, this chicken soup is your go-to. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded (or fresh chicken, poached and shredded)
- 1 can (15 oz) white kidney beans (cannellini beans), rinsed and drained
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 Parmesan rind
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pot:
- Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat up.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot.
- Sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the celery turns bright green.
- Add Garlic and Chicken:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the pot. If using fresh chicken, poach it in the broth until fully cooked, then shred and add back to the pot.
- Add Beans and Broth:
- Add the rinsed and drained white kidney beans to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
- Enhance the Flavor:
- Add the Parmesan rind and bay leaf to the pot. These ingredients will infuse the soup with a rich, savory flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the Parmesan rind and bay leaf from the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Cook Time: 45mins