Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe To Boost Your Immunity - Soup Chick (2024)

Savor the heart-warming delight of our Chicken Veggie Soup, brimming with wholesome goodness. Packed with juicy chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it serves as an ideal comfort food, fueling your body and soul.

Each spoonful unveils layers of rich flavors, the chicken lending a savory touch, vegetables adding a crunch, and a delicate broth wrapping it all in a velvety texture. Handpicked ingredients ensure a nutritional powerhouse, promising protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

An easy yet fulfilling meal, this soup caters to those bustling days when a quick, hearty dish is a must. Whether it’s a midweek dinner or a weekend indulgence, Chicken Veggie Soup is versatile, appealing to diverse taste buds.

Prepare to immerse yourself in a culinary journey, relishing the simplicity and elegance of this classic dish. So, get ready; let’s transform simple ingredients into a symphony of taste!

What Is Chicken Veggie Soup?

Chicken Veggie Soup is a comforting, hearty dish loaded with tender pieces of chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. This soup blends wholesome nutrition and rich flavor, perfectly balancing protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

A staple across cultures, it’s an easy-to-make, versatile meal ideal for any day, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table. Its culinary charm lies in its simplicity, proving that a gastronomic delight can indeed emerge from basic ingredients.

History Of Chicken Veggie Soup

The origins of Chicken Veggie Soup are intertwined with the history of the soup itself, which dates back to around 20,000 BC. It quickly found a place in diverse cultures worldwide as an economical, versatile dish.

The classic pairing of chicken and vegetables was a natural evolution, combining readily available, nutritious ingredients.

This soup grew in popularity due to its restorative properties, particularly in times of scarcity or sickness.

Over the centuries, countless variations have emerged, reflecting local tastes and ingredients, making Chicken Veggie Soup a beloved comfort food and a testament to culinary creativity and cultural adaptation.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Veggie Soup

• Universal Comfort Food: Chicken Veggie Soup is considered a universal comfort food, enjoyed in various forms across cultures worldwide, adapting to regional ingredients and preferences.
• Health Benefits: It’s often dubbed as a ‘cold remedy’ and ‘grandma’s cure-all soup.’ The hot broth helps clear nasal congestion and hydrates the body, while the chicken and veggies provide essential nutrients.
• Culinary Variations: Despite its simple base, this soup has many global variations. It can include pasta or rice in Italy, coconut milk in Thailand, or corn tortillas in Mexico.
• A Soup from Leftovers: Traditionally, the soup was a way to use every part of the chicken, including the bones for broth, making it an economical and waste-reducing dish.
• Psychological Comfort: Some studies suggest that soup provides psychological comfort. Its warm, homely association may help people feel better, especially when they are feeling down or unwell.

What Makes Chicken Veggie Soup Special?

• Nutritionally Dense: Chicken Veggie Soup is a powerhouse of essential nutrients – protein from chicken, vitamins and fiber from vegetables, and hydration from the broth.
• Versatility: The recipe can be modified to cater to different dietary needs and preferences, such as using gluten-free noodles or making it vegan by replacing chicken with tofu.
• Comfort Food: It’s a universally accepted comfort food, often associated with warmth, homeliness, and care.
• Easily Accessible Ingredients: The ingredients required are often staple items found in most kitchens, making it easy to prepare.
• Culinary Creativity: It’s a canvas for culinary creativity, allowing for endless variations by adding different vegetables, spices, and even grains or noodles.
• Healing Properties: Due to its warmth and nutritional content, it’s often used as a home remedy for colds and flu.
• Dish for All Seasons: While it is especially comforting in cold weather, it’s light enough to be enjoyed year-round.
• Waste-Reducing: Traditionally, this soup was a way to utilize every part of the chicken, including the bones, for broth, embodying a waste-reducing approach to cooking.

Ingredients List

Ingredients Tips

• Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken for a richer, more flavorful broth. The bones, in particular, contribute to the soup’s depth of flavor and nutritional value.
• Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables will deliver the best taste. Feel free to experiment with a variety of vegetables for different flavors and textures. Common favorites include root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, leafy greens, and aromatic veggies like onions and celery.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley can elevate the flavor of your soup. For a spicy kick, consider adding a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Broth: Homemade broth is always the best for flavor, but if you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought broth can work well too.
• Noodles or Grains: If you plan to add noodles or grains, cook them separately to avoid them becoming too soft and mushy in the soup.
• Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the soup as it can make the chicken and vegetables lose their texture. The chicken should be just cooked through, and the veggies should retain a bit of their crunch.
• Storage: Chicken Veggie Soup stores well, so it’s perfect for meal prep. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! Here are variations of the Chicken Veggie Soup to cater to specific dietary needs:

• Keto: Focus on low-carb vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and cauliflower. Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for added fat content. Omit any grains or starchy vegetables like potatoes and carrots.
• Paleo: Use fresh, organic vegetables and pasture-raised chicken. Exclude any legumes, grains, or dairy products. Opt for a homemade bone broth for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth is gluten-free; some store-bought versions contain wheat derivatives. Replace traditional pasta or noodles with gluten-free alternatives or use a hearty, gluten-free grain like quinoa.
• Whole30: Use homemade broth to avoid any unwanted additives, sugars, or dairy. Skip any grain or legume ingredients. Include a variety of Whole30-compliant veggies like carrots, celery, bell peppers, and onions.
• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken with protein-rich legumes like lentils or chickpeas, or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Vegan: Follow the vegetarian version but replace any butter with oil, and ensure your broth is vegetarian and vegan (no animal products like milk derivatives or honey).

Recipe Directions

• Combine the first 7 ingredients in an Instant Pot, secure the lid, and set the pressure-release valve.
• Set the Instant Pot to pressure-cook on high for 15 minutes.
• Once done, use the quick-release pressure feature.
• Switch to sauté mode on low heat.
• Blend cornstarch and cream until smooth and add to the soup, stirring continuously for 6-8 minutes until it thickens.
• Add cheese and bacon, letting it heat until the cheese melts.
• Hit cancel.
• Serve the soup sprinkled with green onions and, if desired, additional cheese and bacon.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Recipe

Variations

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap out bacon and chicken broth for vegetable broth and add hearty vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Creamy Indulgence: For a creamier texture, blend half the soup before adding the cheese and bacon, then mix it back in.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with seafood like shrimp or clams for a coastal spin.

Add-Ons

• Protein Boost: Consider adding lentils or chickpeas for an extra protein kick.
• Grain Goodness: Incorporate cooked barley, rice, or quinoa for added texture and filling.
• More Greens: Stir in spinach or kale near the end of cooking for a nutritious boost.

Toppings

• Crunch Factor: Sprinkle crispy croutons or toasted seeds for a contrasting crunch.
• Fresh Flavors: Top with fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or basil to brighten the flavors.
• Heat It Up: A dash of hot sauce or sprinkling of red pepper flakes will add a nice kick.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling a recipe up or down means adjusting the ingredient quantities to serve more or fewer people. However, remember that cooking times may also need to be adjusted.

Let’s assume the original recipe serves 4.

Scaling Up

• To double the recipe to serve 8, double each ingredient quantity. If the original recipe calls for 2 chicken breasts, use 4 instead. If it calls for 1 cup of diced carrots, use 2 cups. This may also increase the cooking time, so monitor the soup closely.

Scaling Down

• To halve the recipe to serve 2, halve each ingredient quantity. If the original recipe calls for 2 chicken breasts, use 1 instead. If it calls for 1 cup of diced carrots, use 1/2 cup. Cooking time may decrease, so keep an eye on the soup to avoid overcooking.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

For garnishing the Chicken Veggie Soup, a number of ingredients can be used to enhance both the visual appeal and the flavor profile. Here are a few options:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of cilantro can add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, can add a delightful creamy note and extra savory flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions or scallions provide a pleasing color contrast and a mildly sharp, fresh flavor.
• Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon not only adds a nice texture but also lends a smoky flavor to the soup.
• Croutons: For a contrasting crunch, homemade or store-bought croutons can be a great choice.
• Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of cream adds a creamy element and can create a beautiful swirl pattern in the soup.
• Spices: A dash of paprika or black pepper can enhance the visual appeal and slightly kick the soup.

Can I Make The Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Both the slow cooker and the Instant Pot are excellent tools for making soup, each offering unique advantages.

Slow Cooker

Using a slow cooker allows for the flavors to meld together over a longer period, resulting in a rich, flavorful soup.

• First, add all the ingredients except for the cream, cornstarch, cheese, and bacon into the slow cooker.

• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

• Near the end of the cooking time, mix the cornstarch with the cream until smooth and stir it into the soup.

• Cook on high for another 15-30 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.

• Stir in the cheese and bacon, cover, and cook on high until the cheese is melted.

• Serve with the garnish of your choice.

Instant Pot

The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time while still delivering a flavorful soup.

• Combine your first 7 ingredients in the Instant Pot, secure the lid, and close the pressure-release valve.
• Pressure-cook on high for 15 minutes and then use the quick-release pressure feature.
• Switch to the sauté mode on low heat.
• Mix cornstarch and cream until smooth and stir into the soup.
• Stir continuously for 6-8 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
• Add the cheese and bacon and heat until the cheese melts.
• Press cancel and serve the soup sprinkled with green onions, and if desired, additional cheese and bacon.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both store-bought and homemade broths can be used in making Chicken Veggie Soup, and each has its own merits.

Store-Bought Broth

• The store-bought broth is a fantastic time-saver. It’s ready to use and comes in various flavors. It’s ideal for those busy days when you want to whip up a quick soup.

However, make sure to choose a high-quality, low-sodium version to ensure the best flavor and nutritional profile. Low-sodium versions allow you to control the salt level of your soup better.

Homemade Broth

• Making your own broth takes more time, but it’s a labor of love that pays off in the flavor department. Homemade broths often have a richer, deeper flavor that store-bought varieties can’t match.

Plus, you can tweak the recipe to your liking, adding your favorite herbs and aromatics. Also, homemade broths are usually more cost-effective, especially if you’re using leftover chicken bones and vegetable scraps.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

Yes, absolutely! Soup recipes are usually quite versatile, and the Chicken Veggie Soup is no exception. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Meat: Other than chicken, you could use turkey, beef, or pork. They would each bring their unique flavors and textures to the soup.
• Fish: Certain types of fish or seafood like cod, salmon, shrimp, or clams could also work well, creating a different yet delicious seafood variant of the soup.
• Pasta: If you’re considering adding pasta, you could use a wide variety – from shells, bow ties (farfalle), rotini, to egg noodles. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, there are many gluten-free pasta options available as well.
• Vegetables: You have an open field here. Any vegetable can be used, though the cooking time may vary depending on the type. You could consider bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, peas, kale, spinach, sweet potatoes, etc. Different vegetables alter the soup’s flavor profile, color, and nutritional content.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Soup

Making soup is a delightful process, but knowing a few tips and tricks can elevate your soup-making game. Here’s how you can perfect your soup:

Prepping Tips

• Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients significantly influences the final outcome. Always use fresh vegetables and high-quality meat or broth.

• Consistent Chopping: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes. This ensures they cook evenly and each spoonful contains a good mix of ingredients.

• Prep in Advance: Chop all your ingredients before you start cooking. This allows for a smooth and uninterrupted cooking process.

Cooking Tips

• Saute First: If your recipe includes onions, garlic, or spices, saute them first. This helps release their flavors and aromatics, adding depth to your soup.
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow your soup to simmer gently. A rapid boil can cause the vegetables to become mushy and the meat to toughen.
• Layer the Ingredients: Not all ingredients cook at the same pace. Add ingredients in stages, starting with those that take longer to cook.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings. The flavors can change during cooking, especially in long-simmering soups.
• Use the Right Cookware: A large, heavy-bottomed pot distributes heat evenly, ensuring all ingredients are cooked just right.
• Cool Before Storing: If storing, allow the soup to cool before putting it into the refrigerator. This helps prevent a drop in temperature in the fridge which can lead to food spoilage.

Nutritional Values

Chicken veggie soup is a nutritious dish packed with essential nutrients. It typically contains chicken, a good protein source for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, and celery, provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber for overall health.

The broth contributes to hydration and may contain valuable nutrients from simmered ingredients. However, the specific nutritional values can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used.

What Are Total Calories In The Soup?

Determining the exact calorie count in homemade dishes can be challenging, as it relies on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, a general estimate for a standard Chicken Veggie Soup might be around 200-300 calories per 1-cup serving.

This estimate is based on using lean chicken breast, a variety of vegetables, and a light broth. The calorie count will increase if you add cream, cheese, or bacon. For instance, adding a quarter cup of shredded cheddar cheese will add around 110 calories, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream will add about 100 calories.

Dietary Restrictions For The Soup

Chicken Veggie Soup can be adaptable to suit various dietary needs and restrictions, but as traditionally prepared, there may be a few considerations:

• Gluten-Free: As long as all ingredients used are gluten-free (broth, spices, and any added thickeners or pasta), this soup can easily be gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: The soup may contain dairy if cream or cheese is used. To make it dairy-free, you can skip these ingredients or use dairy-free alternatives.
• Nut-Free: This soup is generally nut-free, but always double-check the labels of store-bought broths or seasonings to ensure they weren’t processed in a facility with nuts.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: As the name suggests, Chicken Veggie Soup contains chicken, making it unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, the chicken can be substituted with tofu or more veggies, and a vegetable broth can be used.
• Low-Carb/Keto: While vegetables are typically part of a balanced diet, some are high in carbs which may not suit a strict low-carb or keto diet. To adapt, focus on low-carb vegetables and increase the protein content.
• Paleo/Whole30: To make the soup Paleo or Whole30 compliant, make sure to use a compliant broth (no added sugars or non-compliant additives) and skip any non-compliant ingredients like cornstarch, dairy, or legumes.

Health Benefits Of The Soup

Soup, especially one brimming with vegetables and lean proteins like Chicken Veggie Soup, provides numerous health benefits:

• Hydration: Soup’s high liquid content can contribute to your daily hydration needs, which is crucial for virtually every bodily function.
• Nutrient-Rich: Homemade soups with a variety of vegetables offer a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Adding lean protein, such as chicken, provides essential amino acids.
• Low Calorie: Soup, especially broth-based varieties, is generally low in calories but high in nutritional value, making it a good option for those watching their weight.
• Digestion: The high fiber content in vegetable-rich soups can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.
• Immune Boosting: Chicken soup has been a home remedy for colds and flu for centuries. The hot broth helps clear nasal congestion, and the chicken and vegetables provide the nutrients needed for recovery.
• Satiety: Soups are often more filling than other meals with the same number of calories, making them a good option for those trying to reduce their overall calorie intake.
• Versatile: Soup can be tailored to specific dietary needs or preferences, making it a versatile dish for getting a range of nutrients.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sodium?

Reducing the sodium in your soup without compromising on flavor can be achieved through several methods:

• Use Low-Sodium or No-Salt-Added Broth: Many brands offer low-sodium or no-salt-added versions of their broths, which can significantly reduce the sodium content.
• Make Your Own Broth: When you make your own broth, you control the amount of salt that goes into it. This can be a great way to manage the sodium content of your soup.
• Reduce Added Salt: Be mindful of the amount of salt you add during cooking. The other ingredients provide enough flavor on their own.
• Add Flavor Without Salt: Use a variety of herbs, spices, aromatics (like garlic, onions, and ginger), and acidity (such as lemon juice or vinegar) to enhance flavor without adding salt.
• Rinse Canned Ingredients: If you’re using canned vegetables or beans, rinse them before adding to the soup. This can remove up to 40% of the sodium.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and meats typically have less sodium than their canned or processed counterparts.
• Serve Smaller Portions: If all else fails, simply reducing the portion size can help keep sodium intake in check.

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sugar?

Here are a few strategies to reduce the sugar content in your soup:

• Avoid Sweet Vegetables: Some vegetables, like carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes, have a higher sugar content. Use these sparingly or replace with lower-sugar vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or zucchini.
• Check Canned Goods: If you’re using canned ingredients, make sure they are packed in water, not syrup or juice. These can add unnecessary sugars.
• Watch Your Broth: Store-bought broths can sometimes contain added sugars. Look for broths labeled “no added sugar” or make your own to control what goes in.
• Skip Added Sugars: Some soup recipes call for a pinch of sugar to balance flavors. You can usually omit this without a huge impact on taste.
• Spice It Up: Using herbs, spices, and other flavor-enhancing ingredients like garlic, onion, or vinegar can make your soup taste better without adding any sugar.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

Serving soup may seem straightforward, but there are a few tips and tricks to elevate the experience and make the most of your delicious Chicken Veggie Soup:

• Proper Bowl Selection: Choose a deep bowl to keep the soup warm for longer and to make it easier to eat. Soup bowls with a double handle can also make for easier handling, especially when the soup is hot.
• Pre-Warm Your Bowls: Warming your soup bowls before serving can help keep the soup hot for longer. Just run them under hot water or place them in an oven set to a low temperature for a few minutes.
• Add Garnishes: Adding a garnish just before serving can significantly enhance the soup’s presentation. Fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some freshly ground black pepper can make the soup visually appealing and enhance its flavor.
• Serve with Sides: Depending on the soup’s heartiness, it can be served as a meal on its own or with a side dish. A piece of crusty bread, a side salad, or a sandwich can complement your soup and create a well-rounded meal.
• Use a Ladle: A ladle is the best utensil for serving the soup. It allows you to scoop deep into the pot and ensure each bowl gets a good mix of broth and chunky ingredients.
• Mind the Temperature: Serving the soup at the right temperature is crucial. It should be hot but not scalding. Remember that it will continue to cool as it’s eaten.
• Offer Add-Ins: Depending on the soup and your guests’ preferences, you could provide a range of add-ins, such as additional herbs, spices, or condiments. This allows everyone to customize their bowl to their liking.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Soup Recipe

The beauty of a versatile dish like Chicken Veggie Soup is that it pairs well with a wide array of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complement your soup:

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Freshly baked bread or warm rolls are perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up every last drop.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic companion to soup, a toasty, melty grilled cheese sandwich adds a comforting, hearty element to the meal.
• Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad can balance the warmth and heartiness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal. Try a simple mixed greens salad or a tangy Caesar salad.
• Roasted Veggies: For an extra dose of veggies, serve roasted vegetables on the side. The caramelization from roasting can bring out different flavors that complement the soup.
• Quinoa or Rice: If you’re looking to add more substance, a side of quinoa or rice can make the meal more filling.
• Flatbread or Naan: These breads can be great for scooping up soup, and they add a satisfying texture contrast.
• Cheese or Charcuterie Board: A small board with a selection of cheeses, meats, and olives can provide a variety of flavors and textures that pair well with the soup.
• Cornbread or Biscuits: These can be great, especially if your soup has a bit of a spicy kick. The sweetness of cornbread or the buttery softness of biscuits can balance it out nicely.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Properly stored, homemade Chicken Veggie Soup can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. To store the soup, allow it to cool slightly before placing it in airtight containers and then transferring it to the refrigerator.

If you’d like to keep your soup for longer, you can freeze it. The soup can last for up to 4-6 months in the freezer. To freeze, let the soup cool before portioning it into freezer containers or bags. As the soup will expand as it freezes, leave some space in the bag or container.

When you’re ready to eat the soup, if it’s frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s coming from the fridge, you can also reheat it on the stove or use the microwave for quicker heating.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance?

Absolutely! Making soup in advance is an excellent strategy for meal planning or preparing for a gathering. Like many soup recipes, Chicken Veggie Soup benefits from being made in advance. The flavors have more time to meld together, often making the soup even tastier a day or two after it’s initially cooked.

Just follow your recipe as normal, allow the soup to cool slightly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re preparing the soup more than a few days in advance, consider freezing it to maintain the best quality.

When you’re ready to serve the soup, reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you’ve frozen the soup, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What Can We Do With The Leftovers?

Leftover Chicken Veggie Soup is a gift that keeps on giving. Here are some ideas to repurpose it creatively:

• Reheat and Eat: The easiest option is to reheat and enjoy it again. The flavors often deepen after a day or two.
• Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stove until thickened, then toss with pasta for a hearty dish.
• Stir-fry Base: Use the soup as a sauce base for a stir-fry, adding in fresh veggies or protein as needed.
• Grain Bowl Topper: Pour warmed soup over cooked grains, like rice or quinoa, for a comforting grain bowl.
• Casserole Ingredient: Use the soup as a flavorful liquid in a casserole recipe, adding a cozy touch.
• Pot Pie Filling: Thicken the soup with a little cornstarch and use it as a filling for a chicken pot pie.
• Bread Dip: Warm the soup and serve it as a dip for crusty bread.

Special Tools/ Equipment Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: You’ll cook your soup here. A Dutch oven is ideal because of its even heat distribution and ability to go from stovetop to oven.

• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is important for efficiently and safely chopping vegetables and meat.

• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board protects your countertops and makes chopping easier.

• Wooden Spoon or Ladle: These are used for stirring the soup as it cooks and for serving.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in cooking. These tools help you measure your ingredients correctly.

Optional but helpful tools include:

• Instant Pot or Slow Cooker: You can use one of these appliances to cook your soup. They allow for hands-off cooking and can often result in deeper flavors due to the slow cooking process.
• Immersion Blender or Blender: If you like a smoother soup, these tools can be used to puree it directly in the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicken Veggie Soup Suitable For Infants And Toddlers?

Yes, with a few modifications, Chicken Veggie Soup can be an excellent meal for infants and toddlers. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly cooked and soft, and the soup is served at a safe temperature. You may need to blend or finely chop the soup to an appropriate consistency for young children.

Can I Cook The Chicken Separately And Add It At The End To The Soup?

Absolutely. If you prefer to cook the chicken separately – for example, if you’d like to roast, grill, or fry it for additional flavor – you can certainly do so. Add the cooked chicken to the soup towards the end of the cooking process, allowing enough time for the flavors to meld together.

How Do I Adapt The Recipe If I Don’t Have An Instant Pot?

Not to worry. You can easily make this soup on the stovetop if you don’t have an Instant Pot. Add the ingredients to a large pot or Dutch oven following the same order as the Instant Pot method. Instead of pressure cooking, bring the soup to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the chicken and vegetables are cooked.

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables For This Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in your soup. They’re a great time-saver because they’re already cleaned and chopped. Add them to the soup as you would fresh vegetables, but remember that they may require a shorter cooking time.

What Can I Substitute For The Cream To Make It Lactose-Free?

You can use lactose-free cream or a non-dairy substitute such as coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream for a lactose-free alternative. Be aware that non-dairy alternatives may slightly alter the taste and texture of your soup, but they can still yield a delicious result.

Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe To Boost Your Immunity

5 from 6 votes

Recipe by Hanna BarnesCourse: Soup Recipe

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Chicken Veggie Soup is a warm, comforting dish brimming with tender chicken pieces and a medley of vibrant vegetables. It’s simmered in a rich, flavorful broth that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp 1 Olive Oil

• 1 Pound 1 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

• 4 Cups 4 Chicken Broth

• 1 Cup 1 Fresh Broccoli

• 1 Cup 1 Sliced Carrots

• 1 Cup 1 Sliced Celery

• 1 1 Large Potato, Peeled And Chopped

• 2 tsp 2 Fresh Parsley

• 1 tsp 1 Pepper

• 1/2 tsp 1/2 Fresh Thyme

• 1/2 tsp 1/2 Fresh Oregano

• 1/2 tsp 1/2 Salt

Step-By-Step Directions

• Begin by gathering your first 7 ingredients. Place these into your Instant Pot. Ensure they’re evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
• Carefully lock the Instant Pot’s lid in place and close the pressure-release valve. This will create the necessary environment for pressure cooking.
• Adjust your Instant Pot’s settings to pressure-cook on high. Set the timer for 15 minutes. During this time, the ingredients will cook rapidly under high pressure.
• Once the 15 minutes are up, carefully activate the quick-release pressure mechanism. This will allow the pressure to drop quickly, making it safe to open the pot.
• Switch the Instant Pot to the sauté setting, adjusting for low heat. This lower temperature setting is perfect for the next steps.
• In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix cornstarch and cream until it forms a smooth consistency. Gradually stir this mixture into the soup, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
• Allow the soup to cook on the low heat, stirring continuously. After about 6-8 minutes, the soup should have slightly thickened due to the cornstarch and cream mixture.
• Add your cheese and bacon to the pot. Stir these in until they’re well combined with the rest of the soup. Continue to heat the soup until the cheese has fully melted into it.
• Once the cheese is melted, press the cancel button on the Instant Pot to stop the cooking process.
• Serve the soup in individual bowls. For the final touch, sprinkle each serving with freshly chopped green onions. If you’d like, add a bit more cheese and bacon to each serving for an extra flavor punch. Enjoy this comforting, hearty dish while it’s still warm.

Recipe Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qtePEz38tU

Notes

• Try different vegetable combinations: carrots, celery, zucchini, peas, corn, bell peppers, spinach, etc.
• Experiment with herbs and spices: thyme, oregano, parsley, black pepper, cayenne, etc.
• Use chicken or vegetable broth, or a mix of both.
• Explore protein alternatives like turkey or tofu.
• Cook in a slow cooker or instant pot for convenience.
• Make in large batches and freeze for future meals.
• Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, olive oil, or lemon juice.
• Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Enjoy its immune-boosting and nutritious benefits.
• Be mindful of allergens when serving at gatherings.