If you’re craving something that feels like a big warm hug in a bowl, this Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender chunks of chicken, a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to cozy up with a comforting meal, this soup delivers a perfect balance of taste and wholesome goodness that keeps you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, this soup brings out the best of each component to create an inviting harmony of flavors. Every vegetable adds a burst of color and texture, while the herbs and broth infuse warmth and depth into every spoonful.
- 2 chicken breasts, diced: Choose fresh, boneless chicken for tender, juicy pieces that soak up all the flavors.
- 1 cup carrots, chopped: Provides sweetness and a pleasant crunch to the mix.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Adds a mild, slightly peppery freshness that balances the richness.
- 1 cup potatoes, diced: Offers a creamy, starchy component that makes the soup truly filling.
- 1 cup green beans, chopped: Adds a delightful snap and vibrant green color near the end of cooking.
- 1 onion, diced: The cornerstone of flavor giving the soup a savory base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic kick that’s hard to resist.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup that ties all elements together.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: A fragrant herb that elevates the dish with subtle earthiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and rounding out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring occasionally until they soften and become fragrant—this forms the flavorful foundation you’ll notice in every spoonful.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the diced chicken breasts to the pot. Cook them until they’re lightly browned on the outside, which helps lock in moisture and develop a richer flavor for the soup.
Step 3: Add the Heartier Vegetables
Once the chicken looks good, stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. These vegetables take a bit longer to cook, so they deserve to go in early to soften up and absorb the broth’s delicious essence.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Seasonings
Now, pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth to cover the ingredients. Sprinkle in the thyme, along with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine so the flavors meld beautifully during cooking.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow simmering allows the chicken and vegetables to become tender while all those wonderful flavors deepen and marry together.
Step 6: Add the Green Beans
With just 10 minutes left, stir in the chopped green beans. They cook quickly and add a fresh burst of color and crunch that lightens the soup perfectly before serving.
Step 7: Ready to Enjoy
After the final simmer, your Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is ready to serve hot, offering a bowl filled with vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, and comforting broth that feels like home.
How to Serve Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a few thyme leaves on top before serving for a burst of color and fresh aroma. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors wonderfully without overpowering the natural taste of the soup.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast, making it a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. You can also place a toasted slice of garlic bread on the side or even ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for a cozy, fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s serving even more delicious.
Freezing
This Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months without losing its tasty, comforting character.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently over medium-low heat to prevent the chicken from becoming tough. Stir occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time. Just add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm it through without overcooking.
What can I substitute for thyme if I don’t have any?
If thyme isn’t on hand, dried oregano or rosemary can be lovely substitutes that offer a similar earthy and aromatic touch.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and leave some headspace in your container to allow for expansion.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can easily transform the recipe by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. Add extra beans or lentils for protein to keep it hearty.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should have a broth that’s rich but still fairly liquid – think satisfying, not too thick. The potatoes will naturally add some body without making it heavy.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a chilly evening or a day you want something wholesome and soul-satisfying, the Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat. Its beautiful blend of fresh ingredients and comforting flavors is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and happiness it brings to your table!
Print
Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and nutritious chicken vegetable soup featuring tender chicken breasts and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in flavorful chicken broth, perfect for a comforting meal any day.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Seasonings
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
Instructions
- Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, and diced potatoes, coating them well with the flavors in the pot.
- Add Broth and Season: Pour in the chicken broth, then add thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes to meld the flavors and cook the vegetables until tender.
- Cook Green Beans: Add the chopped green beans to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for a warm and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to personal taste.
- You can substitute thyme with rosemary or parsley for a different herb flavor.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before serving.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
