BBQ Chicken and Vegetable Soup Recipe for Easy Meals

When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty bowl of BBQ chicken and vegetable soup. This recipe combines the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chicken with the vibrant freshness of garden vegetables, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is easy to make, nutritious, and versatile enough to become a staple in your kitchen.

Loaded with protein, vitamins, and a kick of BBQ zest, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you want a cozy yet wholesome dish. The balance between tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful broth will have you coming back for seconds.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or fresh produce from your local market. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful BBQ chicken and vegetable soup recipe that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ chicken and vegetable soup is a unique twist on traditional chicken soup, offering a smoky, tangy flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. This recipe is:

• Easy to prepare: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and a variety of colorful vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Customizable: You can swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the BBQ sauce to your preferred spice level.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Meal prep friendly: Cooks up a big batch that refrigerates or freezes well for future meals.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite smoky style)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, poach or roast 2 chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Pour in liquids and spices: Add the chicken broth, water, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
6. Add chicken and corn: Stir in the cooked chicken and corn kernels. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes to heat through.
7. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and add more salt or BBQ sauce if desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Tips & Variations

To deepen the smoky flavor, try adding a splash of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño peppers for some heat.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute the chicken with hearty beans such as chickpeas or black beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Bulk it up: Add cooked quinoa, brown rice, or small pasta shapes like orzo for a heartier soup.
• Use fresh herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic twist.
• Leftover makeover: This soup is ideal for using leftover grilled chicken — just shred and add it in step 6.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ chicken and vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or warm cornbread for soaking up the delicious broth. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

To add even more texture, sprinkle some crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips on top before serving. You can also offer a side of creamy mashed avocado or a dollop of sour cream to complement the smoky BBQ flavors.

For those looking for a wholesome one-pot meal, serve the soup with a side of steamed rice or quinoa to make it extra filling.

Conclusion

This BBQ chicken and vegetable soup is a delightful blend of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Its ease of preparation and wholesome ingredients make it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Not only is it packed with nutrients from the colorful vegetables and lean chicken, but it also offers a creative twist on classic chicken soup that keeps mealtime exciting. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your preferred vegetables or spice levels, making it truly your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious and healthy meals like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion, Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals, and Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to expand your culinary repertoire.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every warm, smoky spoonful!

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