Vegetable and Chicken Soup

This hearty Vegetable and Chicken Soup combines tender chicken with an array of vibrant vegetables, creating a delicious and nourishing dish. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day or as a wholesome addition to your dinner table.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 leek, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 stalks of celery, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 3 potatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
  • 1 chicken fillet
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 3.5 oz (100 grams) mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 hot pepper, finely chopped
  • Parsley, for garnish

Directions

  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
    • Add sliced leek and fry until softened.
    • Stir in chopped celery and bell pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
    • Add diced zucchini and cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • Mix in diced potatoes and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes.
    • Pour in vegetable broth, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken fillet with salt, black pepper, red pepper, turmeric, and thyme.
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the chicken over medium heat for 10 minutes or until fully cooked.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Prepare Additional Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, fry the chopped onion and carrot over medium heat until softened.
    • Add sliced mushrooms and hot pepper, season with salt, and cook for 7 minutes.
  • Combine Ingredients:
    • Blend the cooked vegetable mixture with a blender until smooth.
    • Return the blended soup to the pot.
    • Add the cooked chicken and fried vegetables to the soup.
    • Simmer over medium heat for another 15 minutes.
  • Finish the Soup:
    • Chop fresh parsley and stir it into the soup.
    • Heat through and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.
  • Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
  • Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
  • Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea for a warm, comforting experience.

Cooking Tips

  • Adjust spices to your preference by adding more turmeric, thyme, or red pepper for extra flavor.
  • For a richer soup, substitute half the vegetable broth with chicken stock.
  • Use an immersion blender for convenience when blending the soup directly in the pot.
  • Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a creamier consistency.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Chicken: High in protein, aiding in muscle repair and growth.
  • Vegetables: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Olive Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants.
  • Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Dietary Information

  • High protein
  • Gluten-free
  • Dairy-free (optional)
  • Low-carb (depending on potato quantity)

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g

Storage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
  • Versatile and customizable to your taste.
  • Packed with nutrients for a balanced meal.
  • Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

Conclusion
This Vegetable and Chicken Soup is a comforting, nutrient-rich dish that’s both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in a flavorful broth will quickly make this soup a favorite in your household. Enjoy the warm, hearty goodness any time of year!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken fillet?
    Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor.
  2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  3. What can I use instead of turmeric?
    Ground cumin or curry powder are great substitutes.
  4. Can I add other vegetables?
    Yes, feel free to add veggies like kale, spinach, or green beans.
  5. Can I make this soup spicy?
    Add more hot pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
  6. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
  7. What can I use as a garnish?
    Fresh parsley, cilantro, or a sprinkle of grated cheese make great garnishes.
  8. Can I skip blending the soup?
    Yes, but blending creates a creamy texture and enhances the flavors.
  9. Can I make this in advance?
    Yes, the flavors deepen over time, making it great for meal prep.
  10. What can I serve with this soup?
    Pair it with bread, a salad, or even a simple sandwich for a complete meal.