Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe

If you are craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s packed full of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and comforting herbs, making every spoonful both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a meal to impress guests with minimal effort, this soup ticks all the boxes. It’s vibrant with colors and rich in flavors, offering a balanced mix of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe, it will become your kitchen staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but absolutely essential. Each one plays a key role, adding layers of taste, texture, and beautiful color to this delightful soup. From the softness of the tender chicken to the sweetness of the butternut squash and the earthiness of the herbs, every element shines here.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a gentle richness and helps soften the vegetables perfectly.
• 1 large onion, finely diced: Brings a mild sweetness and aromatic base to the soup.
• 4 sticks celery, finely diced: Adds a subtle crunch and fresh flavor.
• 3 carrots, peeled and cubed: Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 large potato, peeled and cubed: Provides heartiness and makes the broth more comforting.
• 1 cup (150g) butternut squash, peeled and cubed: Adds a lovely creamy texture and sweet undertone.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the soup.
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Delivers a fragrant herbal note that warms the palate.
• 6 cups (1 ½ liters) chicken stock or broth: The flavorful base that ties everything together.
• 2 pounds (900g) chicken tenders: Tender, juicy chicken that adds protein and substance.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste: Boosts the depth of flavor with a subtle, rich tanginess.
• 1 medium zucchini (courgette), cubed: Adds mild flavor and a bit of fresh bite.
• 1 cup (150g) corn, fresh or canned: Brings sweetness and delightful pop to each spoonful.
• ½ cup (120g) fregola or giant couscous (or risoni pasta): Perfect for adding a slightly chewy texture that makes the soup feel extra filling.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (or to taste): Brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing finish.
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped, plus extra to serve: Freshens the soup and gives it a cheerful green touch.
• Salt and pepper to season: To taste, because that final seasoning makes all the difference.
• Grated Parmesan to serve (optional): Adds a savory richness for those who want to take it up a notch.

How to Make Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by warming the olive oil in your Dutch oven or large pot. Toss in the finely diced onion, celery, carrots, potato, and butternut squash. Sprinkle with salt and your choice of dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Cook these gently over medium-low heat for about five minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and release their flavors. This foundational step makes the soup richly aromatic and ensures all the veggies have a tender yet slightly textured bite.

Step 2: Add Stock, Chicken, and Tomato Paste

Pour in the chicken stock, then add your chicken tenders and stir in the tomato paste, which enriches the broth with a subtle tangy depth. Bring everything up to a slow simmer and keep it there over medium-low heat for 15 minutes. This simmering allows the chicken to cook perfectly while infusing the broth with hearty goodness from the vegetables and herbs.

Step 3: Incorporate Zucchini, Corn, Pasta, and Lemon

After the chicken has cooked through, stir in the cubed zucchini, corn kernels, fregola or your choice of tiny pasta, and the lemon juice. Continue cooking for another 10 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the zucchini has softened, but still holds a bit of bite. The lemon juice adds just the right pop of brightness to balance the soup’s richness.

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Finish Soup

Remove the soup from heat and carefully lift out the chicken with tongs. Shred it using two forks, then stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Add the chopped parsley, and taste the soup, seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. This is the moment where all the ingredients come together in a wonderfully harmonious bowl of comfort.

How to Serve Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Keeping it simple with a sprinkle of fresh parsley really enhances the freshness and color. For a little extra indulgence, grate some Parmesan over each bowl just before serving. If you like a little zing, lemon wedges on the side are fantastic for squeezing in that extra citrus lift.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of broth. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness perfectly, adding a crisp texture and refreshing flavor contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or rustic mugs at a casual brunch or lunch with friends. You can also ladle it over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa to make it even heartier. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can introduce a creamy tanginess that brightens the flavors nicely.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavors. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or to enjoy as a quick lunch.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to three months without losing quality. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time for it to come to temperature, and add a splash of chicken stock or water if it seems too thick. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables intact.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and shred the meat once it’s cooked through. This slight change can make your Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe even more satisfying.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! This soup freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn. It makes a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days.

Can I substitute any vegetables?

Feel free to swap in what you have on hand. Green beans, peas, or even spinach work well. However, keep in mind that some vegetables cook faster than others, so add those towards the end to maintain texture.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, try mashing a few potato chunks against the side of the pot and stirring them back in. Alternatively, adding a little extra pasta or fregola can help soak up broth and create a heartier texture.

Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Definitely! The Instant Pot method actually speeds up the process without sacrificing flavor. Simply sauté the vegetables in the pot, add all the ingredients except the delicate zucchini, corn, and pasta. Cook under high pressure and then add the remaining ingredients afterwards for a perfectly cooked, time-saving meal.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is a true gem — easy to make, filled with wholesome ingredients, and bursting with comforting flavors that make you feel good inside and out. I love how it’s flexible yet reliably delicious, perfect for any season or occasion. Make it once, and I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation too. So grab your pot, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this comforting bowl of goodness today!

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