Warm up your soul with a bowl of our delightful Chicken Vegetable and Quinoa Soup! This hearty, nutritious dish is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace on a chilly day. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and protein-rich quinoa, this recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you'll have a wholesome dinner ready to share with family or friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover how simple it is to create a nourishing soup that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables: dice the chicken breast into small cubes, chop carrots, celery, and bell peppers into uniform pieces, and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until it turns white and is no longer pink in the center, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Introduce chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the pot. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add rinsed quinoa to the pot. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until quinoa is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Optional: garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and dice the chicken breast in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, spinach, or even sweet corn can add a delightful twist to the soup.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: For a healthier option, choose low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of your soup without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Some Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a kick!
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t forget to garnish your soup with fresh parsley or sliced green onions before serving. It adds a pop of color and enhances the overall flavor.
- Store Leftovers Properly: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Make it a Meal: Serve your soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
