Best Chicken and Vegetable Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of homemade chicken and vegetable soup. Whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly evening, healing from a cold, or simply craving a wholesome meal, this classic recipe delivers every time.

With tender chunks of chicken, an abundance of vibrant vegetables, and a nourishing, aromatic broth, this soup is the very definition of cozy home cooking.

What sets this recipe apart is its balance between hearty protein and fresh produce, creating a meal that satisfies without weighing you down. It’s also incredibly versatile—adapt it with what’s in season or what you have in your fridge.

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and nourishment to your table, my best chicken and vegetable soup recipe is about to become your go-to comfort food. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Few dishes match the soothing qualities of chicken soup, especially when homemade with care.
• Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with lean protein and a rainbow of vegetables, it’s a meal that’s both filling and healthy.
• Easy to Customize: Swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and familiar ingredients ensure everyone at the table will love it.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs
• Bowl and fork for shredding chicken

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients:

   Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, mince the garlic, and chop the rest of your vegetables. Having everything prepped before you start cooking makes the process smooth and stress-free.

2. Sauté aromatics:

   Heat the olive oil in your large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.

   Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

3. Add garlic and seasonings:

   Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

   Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

4. Add chicken and broth:

   Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf.

   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

5. Simmer and skim:

   Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Occasionally skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer broth.

6. Add potatoes and vegetables:

   Add the potatoes, green beans, zucchini, and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir well.

   Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

7. Remove and shred chicken:

   Use tongs to carefully remove the chicken to a bowl. Let it cool for a few minutes, then use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

8. Return chicken and finish soup:

   Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

   Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

9. Serve and enjoy:

   Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with extra parsley or a lemon wedge if desired.

   Serve immediately, or let cool and store for later.

Tips & Variations

Tip: “For extra depth of flavor, brown your chicken pieces in the pot before adding the broth, then set aside. Sauté the vegetables next and continue as directed, returning the chicken with the broth.”

• Swap the vegetables: Use what’s in season—try corn, bell peppers, spinach, kale, or peas.
• Use rotisserie chicken: For a shortcut, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken at the end and simmer for just 10 minutes.
• Make it gluten-free: This soup is naturally gluten-free; just double-check your broth label.
• Add grains or pasta: Stir in 1 cup of cooked rice, quinoa, or small pasta shapes for a heartier soup. Add cooked grains in the last 5 minutes.
• Boost the flavor: Drop in a Parmesan rind to simmer with the soup, or stir in a spoonful of pesto at the end.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for gentle heat.

“Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. It adds flavor but isn’t meant to be eaten!”

Love experimenting with vegetables? Don’t miss my Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or explore hearty, plant-based options with the Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for more inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Nothing beats dipping a slice of warm, crusty bread into a savory soup. Try pairing with homemade loaves like this Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for a plant-based side.
• Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple green salad, dressed in lemon and olive oil, for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Grilled Cheese: A classic grilled cheese sandwich alongside this soup makes for the ultimate comfort meal.
• Crackers or Breadsticks: Crunchy sides like whole grain crackers or breadsticks are always a hit.
• Make it a meal: For a heartier dinner, add a scoop of cooked brown rice, farro, or quinoa to your bowl before ladling in the soup.

Looking for more vegetable-forward dishes? Try the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or browse the comforting Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for your next cozy night in.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken and vegetable soup is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. With its nourishing balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a dish that feels as good as it tastes.

This recipe is designed for flexibility—use your favorite vegetables, add grains or pasta for extra heartiness, and season to your taste. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or simply warming up on a cool day.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just getting started, this soup is accessible, forgiving, and always delicious. Make a big batch and savor the leftovers—they only get better with time!

I hope this recipe becomes a cherished staple in your kitchen, bringing comfort and warmth whenever you need it most. Happy cooking and enjoy every spoonful!

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