Chicken Vegetable Soup

Looking for a comforting and flavorful chicken soup recipe? This homemade chicken soup is packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of seasonings. Made with olive oil, garlic, and a rich chicken broth, it’s a perfect meal for chilly days or when you’re craving something hearty. Featuring simple ingredients like carrots, celery, and frozen mixed vegetables, this quick chicken soup recipe is both delicious and easy to prepare. Add this gluten-free chicken soup to your meal rotation for a wholesome dinner that’s ready in under an hour! Ideal for cold and flu season or as a cozy family favorite.

Ingredients

Soup:

• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ¼ lbs. chicken (see Notes)
• Salt/Pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• ¾ cup carrots, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 7 cups chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn/green beans)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon each: dried basil, oregano, mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a 4.5-quart soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear on each side for about 3 minutes, until a golden crust forms. (It’s okay if the chicken isn’t fully cooked; it will finish cooking in the soup.)
   • Remove the chicken and set aside. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then dice or shred.
2. Build the Base:
   • Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this is the flavorful “fond”).
   • Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
   • Stir in the minced garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix well.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and return the chicken to the pot along with any juices that accumulated on the plate.
   • Simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables:
   • Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. Partially cover the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm with your favorite bread or crackers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and a variety of vegetables, this soup is as wholesome as it is satisfying.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to what you have on hand.
• Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prepping or saving leftovers for later.

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Tips

• For extra flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks.
• Don’t skip the fond! Those browned bits at the bottom of the pot add incredible depth to the broth.
• Keep frozen vegetables on hand for an easy shortcut.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving for a bright finish.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or increase the hot sauce.
• Low-Carb: Replace carrots and corn with zucchini or cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
• Grain Addition: Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier soup.

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FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes! Add shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Perfect Pairings: Serve with a crusty baguette, cornbread, or oyster crackers for a complete meal.
• Salad Complement: Pair with a fresh green salad for added crunch and nutrition.
• Make it a Feast: Add a side of garlic butter rolls or cheesy breadsticks for a comforting dinner.