There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with hearty chunks of chicken and vibrant vegetables. This chunky chicken and veg soup recipe is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or a nutritious lunch to fuel your day, this soup ticks all the boxes.
With tender pieces of chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory broth, this recipe is designed to please the whole family. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences or whatever you have in your pantry.
Read on to discover why this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen and how you can make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chunky chicken and veg soup is a true all-rounder. It’s:
- Hearty and filling: The generous chunks of chicken and vegetables make it a substantial meal on its own.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, it’s great for your health.
- Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have it ready in under an hour.
- Customizable: Swap out veggies or add your favorite herbs and spices to make it uniquely yours.
- Perfect for leftovers: It tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully for busy weeks.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Soup bowls for serving
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, peel and chop the carrots and potatoes, and chop all other vegetables and chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil: In your large pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken: Toss in the chicken chunks and cook for 5-6 minutes until they start to brown slightly on all sides but are not fully cooked through.
- Add vegetables: Stir in carrots, celery, potatoes, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
- Pour in broth and seasonings: Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Add frozen peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips & Variations
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before serving.
Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens all the flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Sodium | 550 mg (varies with broth) |
Serving Suggestions
This chunky chicken and veg soup is a complete meal in itself, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few simple sides. Consider pairing it with a crusty whole-grain bread or warm garlic toast to soak up the flavorful broth.
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup perfectly. For a touch of indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the top or serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Looking for more comforting chicken dishes? Check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes for healthy options, or try the Chicken Friand Recipe for a delicious twist on classic chicken meals.
Conclusion
In just a little over half an hour, you can create a delicious and nourishing bowl of chunky chicken and veg soup that warms the soul and delights the palate. This recipe balances simplicity with robust flavors, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a reliable, comforting meal.
The flexibility to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings ensures it never gets boring.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or prepping meals ahead, this soup is sure to become a favorite go-to. Don’t forget to explore other hearty recipes like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or brighten your condiments with the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for added zest.
Happy cooking and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
📖 Recipe Card: Chunky Chicken and Veg Soup
Description: A hearty and comforting soup packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add carrots, celery, and potatoes, cook for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken chunks and cook until lightly browned.
- Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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