Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic The Best top 5
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken vegetable soup to soothe the soul and nourish the body. Whether it’s a chilly evening, you’re feeling under the weather, or you just want a hearty and healthy meal, this classic soup is the perfect go-to. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth, this homemade chicken vegetable soup recipe is simple to make, full of flavor, and ideal for meal prep.
In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make a delicious pot of chicken vegetable soup—from selecting the best ingredients to tips for enhancing the flavor and storing leftovers. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
Healthy & Nutritious: Full of protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh ingredients.
Easy to Make: Simple steps, no fancy equipment, and minimal prep time.
Customizable: Swap out vegetables, add herbs, or adjust the spices to your liking.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes beautifully for easy, nourishing meals anytime.
ngredients for Chicken Vegetable Soup
Here’s a list of fresh and pantry staples you’ll need to make this cozy soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (or thighs) | 1 pound (boneless, skinless) |
| Chicken broth (low sodium) | 8 cups |
| Carrots (sliced) | 3 medium |
| Celery (chopped) | 3 stalks |
| Onion (diced) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Potatoes (diced) | 2 medium (optional) |
| Green beans (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Corn (fresh or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Peas (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Fresh thyme (or dried) | 2 sprigs (or 1 tsp dried) |
| Parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Vegetable Soup
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the chicken into large chunks (it will shred easily after cooking).
👉 Pro Tip: Prepping ingredients ahead saves time and ensures smooth cooking!
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken and Broth
- Add the chicken pieces, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas (if using).
- Simmer for another 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
6. Season and Finish
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- For a burst of brightness, stir in a splash of lemon juice.
- Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken vegetable soup is delicious on its own or paired with sides. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the warm, hearty soup.
- Rice or Noodles: Add cooked rice or egg noodles for a heartier meal.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed.
Pro Tip: Freeze in individual servings for quick, easy meals.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
Make it Creamy: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich texture.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by adding pre-cooked, shredded chicken.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for white beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Table of Contents
FAQs: Chicken Vegetable Soup
1. Can I make chicken vegetable soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Place all ingredients (except peas and lemon juice) into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken, return it to the pot, and add peas and lemon juice before serving.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Frozen vegetables work perfectly in this soup—just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
3. How do I thicken chicken vegetable soup?
For a thicker soup, mash a few cooked potatoes or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
4. What cut of chicken is best?
Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicy, but chicken breasts work well for a leaner option.
5. Can I add pasta?
Definitely! Add small pasta (like ditalini or egg noodles) during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
The Perfect Comfort in Every Bowl
Homemade chicken vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food—nourishing, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping, or craving a warm bowl of goodness, this recipe has you covered. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a homemade classic ready to enjoy in no time.
Ready to try this comforting chicken vegetable soup recipe? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today!
