In the realm of comfort food, a steaming bowl of homemade chicken vegetable soup reigns supreme. Whether you’re recovering from a cold, looking for a hearty meal, or simply craving a cozy dish, this simple chicken vegetable soup recipe will satisfy all your culinary desires. Embark on a culinary journey with us as we guide you through the effortless steps to create this delectable soup.
Our recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks of all skill levels. With a few basic ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you’ll be savoring a warm, nutritious soup that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body. Gather your family and friends around the table for a wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
To bring this soup to life, we’ve selected a blend of fresh vegetables that harmonize perfectly with the rich flavor of chicken. Carrots, celery, and onions form the aromatic base, while tender peas and vibrant green beans add bursts of color and sweetness. Of course, no chicken vegetable soup would be complete without hearty chunks of chicken, ensuring a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
How to Make Chicken Vegetable Soup
Step into the kitchen and let’s embark on the culinary adventure of creating our simple chicken vegetable soup. Gather your ingredients and equipment, and let’s begin the symphony of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment:
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In your large stockpot or Dutch oven, add the chicken pieces and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, chop the onion, carrots, and celery.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans, corn, peas, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Once the soup is finished cooking, remove the chicken from the bones and shred it. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Serve the simple chicken vegetable soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Possible Variations
Want to customize your soup to suit your preferences? Here are a few tips and variations to inspire your culinary creativity:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- To make the soup thicker, add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the soup and cook until thickened.
- For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Whether you enjoy it as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or as a rejuvenating lunch, this simple chicken vegetable soup is a culinary delight that will nourish your body and warm your soul. So, gather your loved ones around the table and indulge in the heartwarming flavors of this classic dish.
Remember, cooking should be a joyful experience, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create a soup that reflects your unique culinary style. Whether you prefer a traditional or a more adventurous twist, let your creativity shine through as you savor the simple pleasures of this homemade masterpiece.
