Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe: 5 Easy Steps for a Cozy Meal

Have you ever wondered why a steaming bowl of homemade soup can instantly transport you back to childhood comfort? Is there something magical happening beyond just the ingredients when that aromatic broth fills your kitchen?

Today, I’m sharing my favorite Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you healthy during cold seasons. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a flavorful broth that’s perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Ingredients List

Gathering quality ingredients is the foundation of any great Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe. The combination of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

• 2 pounds bone-in chicken breasts or thighs (skin removed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Substitution ideas: Use rotisserie chicken to save time, swap potatoes with sweet potatoes for added nutrients, or replace any vegetables with what’s seasonal or available in your pantry.

Timing

• This Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe requires about 20 minutes of preparation time and 45-60 minutes of cooking time, for a total of approximately 70-80 minutes from start to finish.
• Compared to traditional chicken soups that often simmer for 2+ hours, this recipe is 40% faster while still developing rich flavors. The active cooking time is only about 30 minutes, with the rest being simmering time when you can attend to other tasks.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Following these detailed steps will ensure your healthy chicken vegetable soup recipe turns out perfect every time. Each step builds flavor that contributes to the final delicious result.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown for 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re not cooking it through, just developing flavor.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning. Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning, which adds significant depth to your soup’s flavor profile.

Step 2: Create the Aromatic Base

Remove chicken and set aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pot. Add onions, carrots, and celery (the “mirepoix”), cooking for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Kitchen secret: The fond (browned bits) on the bottom of the pot after browning the chicken contains concentrated flavor. Make sure to scrape these up as your vegetables release moisture.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Return the chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover partially and cook for about 25-30 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.

1. Keep the simmer gentle – aggressive boiling can make the chicken tough
2. Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring it reaches 165°F internal temperature
3. Skim any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer broth

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Remove chicken pieces and set aside to cool slightly. Add potatoes to the simmering broth and cook for 10 minutes. Shred the chicken, discarding bones, and return meat to the pot.

Add green beans and cook for 5 minutes. Finally, add peas and corn, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until all vegetables are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove bay leaves. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finishing touch: For an extra rich flavor, stir in a tablespoon of butter just before serving. This creates a silky mouthfeel that elevates the entire soup.

Nutritional Information

This Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe offers excellent nutritional value while remaining relatively low in calories. Each serving (approximately 1.5 cups) contains:

• Calories: 285 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 9g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats)
• Sodium: 650mg (using low-sodium broth)
• Vitamin A: 210% of daily value (primarily from carrots)
• Vitamin C: 35% of daily value
• Iron: 15% of daily value

According to nutritional research, homemade chicken soup contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce cold symptoms. The combination of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables creates a balanced meal that supports immune function.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While this soup is already nutritious, you can make it even healthier with these modifications:

• Use skinless chicken and skim fat from broth for lower fat content
• Add leafy greens like kale or spinach in the last 5 minutes for additional nutrients
• Incorporate whole grains by adding 1/2 cup cooked barley, quinoa, or brown rice
• Boost protein by adding a can of drained and rinsed white beans
• Increase antioxidants by adding turmeric (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper

For special diets: Make it gluten-free by ensuring your broth is certified gluten-free. For paleo/keto versions, omit the potatoes, corn, and peas, and add more non-starchy vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your soup experience with these complementary serving ideas:

• Serve with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or homemade garlic bread for dipping
• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like dill or chives just before serving
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors in each bowl
• Serve in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, crowd-pleasing presentation

For a complete meal, pair with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. The acidity of the salad complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the vegetables: Add vegetables in stages based on their cooking times to maintain texture and nutrients. Data shows that overcooking can reduce vitamin content by up to 50%.
• Under-seasoning the broth: Season in layers throughout cooking, not just at the end. This builds depth of flavor that makes the difference between mediocre and memorable soup.
• Boiling instead of simmering: A rapid boil can make chicken tough and break down vegetables too quickly. Gentle simmering yields tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables.
• Not skimming the broth: Removing foam and excess fat creates a clearer, more refined soup with better mouthfeel.
• Cutting vegetables inconsistently: Uniform cutting ensures even cooking. Aim for similar-sized pieces for vegetables with similar cooking times.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This soup actually improves with time as flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigeration: Cool soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. The fat may solidify on top – this can be removed or stirred back in when reheating.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Leave 1-inch headspace for expansion. For best quality, consider freezing before adding potatoes, as they can become grainy when frozen and reheated.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until just simmering. Add a splash of fresh broth if needed to restore consistency. Refresh flavors with a pinch of herbs or lemon juice.

Conclusion

This hearty and nutritious chicken vegetable soup is more than just a meal – it’s comfort in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create a delicious homemade soup that’s far superior to any canned alternative.

Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about your experience or any creative variations you’ve discovered! Share your soup stories in the comments below, or tag me in your soup photos on social media. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other healthy comfort food makeovers on the blog!