Clear Chicken and Veg Soup Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of clear chicken and vegetable soup. It’s light yet nourishing, perfect for those chilly days when you want something warm without feeling weighed down.

This classic recipe highlights the natural flavors of fresh ingredients simmered slowly to create a broth that’s crystal clear and packed with wholesome goodness. Whether you’re recovering from a cold or simply craving a simple, healthy meal, this soup offers a gentle and satisfying option that’s easy to make at home.

What makes this soup truly special is its versatility and clean taste. It’s free from heavy creams or thickening agents, focusing instead on the pure essence of chicken and fresh vegetables.

It’s a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins while enjoying a deeply flavorful broth. Plus, it’s a fantastic base for customizing with your favorite herbs and spices.

Ready to warm your soul? Let’s dive into this clear chicken and veg soup recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This clear chicken and vegetable soup is a perfect blend of simplicity and nutrition. The broth is made by gently simmering chicken bones and fresh veggies, resulting in a clear, golden liquid that’s both comforting and flavorful.

You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare with readily available ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

It’s an ideal soup for meal prepping or serving as a light lunch or dinner. The clean broth hydrates and replenishes, while the vegetables add texture and nutrients.

Additionally, this recipe is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those watching their diet or needing a gentle meal during illness.

For more nourishing and wholesome recipes, you might also enjoy our Pcos Chicken Recipes or try the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a protein-packed meal.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cleaned and quartered
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium onion, peeled and halved
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 parsnip, peeled and chopped (optional)
• 1 small leek, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
• 1 bay leaf
• 5-6 whole black peppercorns
• Fresh parsley sprigs (a handful)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 cups cold water

Equipment

• Large stockpot (at least 6-quart capacity)
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Large ladle
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Soup bowls for serving
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken quarters under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess residue for a clear broth.
2. Add chicken and water to the pot: Place the chicken pieces into your stockpot. Pour in 8 cups of cold water, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Starting with cold water is key to extracting maximum flavor.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer: Slowly heat the pot over medium heat. As the water warms, you’ll notice scum rising to the surface. Skim off this foam carefully with a ladle to keep your broth clear.
4. Add vegetables and aromatics: Once the scum is removed and the broth is simmering gently (not boiling), add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, parsnip, leek, bay leaf, peppercorns, and parsley sprigs.
5. Simmer slowly: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially. Let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking extracts deep flavor without clouding the broth.
6. Season your broth: About 15 minutes before finishing, add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more later but not less.
7. Strain the soup: Remove the pot from heat. Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the broth into another large pot or heatproof container. Discard the solids or reserve the chicken meat for another use.
8. Serve or store: Serve the clear chicken and vegetable soup hot, or let it cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Tips & Variations

“For the clearest broth, make sure to skim the scum regularly during the first 30 minutes of simmering. Avoid boiling the soup vigorously as this can make it cloudy.”

• Add fresh herbs: Customize your soup by adding thyme, rosemary, or dill during the last 30 minutes of simmering for an aromatic boost.
• Use leftover chicken: After making the broth, shred the cooked chicken meat and add it back to the soup for a heartier meal.
• Boost the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or peas for variety and added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili for a subtle kick.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with the same vegetables and herbs for a meat-free clear soup.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This clear chicken and vegetable soup is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a comforting starter to a larger meal or enjoy it as a light main course.

Pair it with crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.

For a more filling option, add cooked rice, noodles, or small dumplings to the soup just before serving. You might also want to check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delicious vegetable side dish that complements this soup perfectly.

Conclusion

Making clear chicken and vegetable soup from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and health to your table. This recipe emphasizes purity and flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a soothing meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoy any time of year.

The clear broth is a testament to patient cooking and attention to detail, delivering a deliciously light yet satisfying dish.

Whether you’re nursing a cold, feeding your family, or simply craving a cozy bowl of soup, this recipe is a wonderful choice. Don’t forget, you can always customize it with your favorite veggies and herbs to make it your own.

For more culinary inspiration, explore our other recipes like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe or the sweet treat of Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Happy cooking and enjoy every spoonful of your homemade clear chicken and veg soup!

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