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