Nothing quite beats a warm, comforting bowl of chicken and veg soup on a chilly UK day. This classic recipe blends tender chicken with a medley of fresh, seasonal vegetables, creating a hearty yet healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something wholesome, this soup is incredibly easy to make and packed with flavour. Using simple, readily available ingredients, it’s a go-to for busy families and novice cooks alike.
Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile, allowing you to swap in your favourite vegetables or add herbs for a personal touch. Let’s dive into this nourishing and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken and veg soup recipe is a winner for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly healthy and packed with nutrients, making it great for boosting your immune system.
The combination of lean chicken and fresh vegetables provides a balanced meal that’s low in calories but high in flavour.
Secondly, it’s super easy to prepare, requiring just one pot and straightforward steps, perfect for those busy weeknights. Lastly, it’s wonderfully adaptable—you can tailor the vegetables and seasoning to suit your taste or what you have in the fridge, making it a zero-waste option.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 sticks celery, sliced
- 1 medium leek, cleaned and diced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1.5 litres chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
- 100g frozen peas
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment
- Large soup pot or stockpot
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Ladle for serving
- Measuring jug for stock
- Peeler for carrots and potato
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in your large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and leek to the pot. Sauté gently for 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot along with the diced potato. Pour in the chicken stock and add the bay leaves and dried thyme.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the frozen peas and cook for a further 5 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
For an extra boost of flavour, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of Worcestershire sauce just before serving.
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or your preferences. Courgettes, parsnips, or green beans make excellent additions.
For a creamier version, stir in a splash of double cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes into the broth or blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. For a low-carb option, replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 28 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Fibre | 4 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty wholemeal bread or a warm baguette for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette.
If you want to balance the meal further, add a side of roasted root vegetables or a light cheese platter. For a UK twist, try serving with a dollop of horseradish cream or a sprinkle of mature cheddar.
Hungry for more comforting recipes? Check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delicious vegetable side, or try the protein-packed Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.
For a tangy condiment twist, our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe is a fantastic accompaniment.
Conclusion
Chicken and veg soup is a timeless classic that brings warmth and nourishment to your table with every spoonful. This recipe is not only straightforward and quick to prepare but also endlessly adaptable to fit your taste and pantry staples.
It’s a perfect example of how wholesome ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and healthy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup offers a satisfying balance of lean protein and vibrant vegetables.
Enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, and feel free to experiment with herbs and veggies to make it your own. Here’s to many cosy moments with a steaming bowl of homemade soup!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken and Veg Soup
Description: A comforting and healthy chicken and vegetable soup perfect for any day. Packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken in a flavorful broth.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery sticks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 200g cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 litre chicken stock
- 150g frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Stir in carrots, celery, and potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add shredded chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 20 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 15 g
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