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This chicken vegetable soup recipe offers a blend of healthy ingredients and bold flavors that are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth, this soup is both satisfying and simple to make. Whether youre looking for a comforting dinner or a wholesome lunch option, this recipe combines quality ingredients and balanced seasoning to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

Soup:

1-2 tablespoons olive oil
1 ¼ lbs. chicken (see notes)
Salt and 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 and green beans)

Seasonings:

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

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season it generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a 4.5-quart soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Rest and Shred: Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest for 10 minutes. Dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in the same pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape and incorporate the brown bits (fond) from the bottom and sides of the pot into the butter—this adds a rich depth of flavor.
Cook Vegetables: Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the garlic, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and the seasonings. Mix well to combine.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and return the chicken to the pot along with any juices collected on the plate. Simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
Add Frozen Vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. Partially cover the pot and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hearty chicken vegetable soup is packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and is perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. The addition of hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle depth, while the tender chicken and fresh vegetables create a wholesome, satisfying dish.

Tips

Chicken Options: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for convenience. Bone-in chicken adds extra flavor but requires additional prep.
Deglazing the Pot: Scraping the fond from the pot enhances the soup’s flavor. Don’t skip this step.
Customizable Broth: Adjust the broth quantity based on your desired soup consistency.
Frozen Vegetables: Add them straight from the freezer to save time.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetable Options: Add potatoes, zucchini, or spinach for variety.
Spicy Kick: Increase the hot sauce or add red pepper flakes for more heat.
Herb Twist: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried ones for a fresh flavor boost.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze chicken vegetable soup? Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup? For a thicker soup, add a slurry of cornstarch and water or mash some of the vegetables before serving.

Serving

Serve this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad. It’s a great starter or a satisfying main dish, especially when paired with warm rolls or crackers.

Suggestions

Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a tangy finish.
Pair with a light white wine or herbal tea for a cozy meal.