Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
Add the Vegetables and Broth:
Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, cubed potatoes, and diced zucchini to the pot. Stir for a minute to combine with the onion and garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Soup:
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and add the thyme, parsley, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add the Chicken and Peas:
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir in the frozen peas. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to heat the chicken and peas through.
Final Adjustments:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a side salad or a warm, buttered roll for a complete meal. For extra richness, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing:
This soup freezes well, so it’s a great option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Variants of Chicken and Vegetable Soup:
Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Soup:
To make this soup creamy, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after simmering the vegetables. Stir in the cream and heat through for a rich, velvety texture.
Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Soup:
Add some heat by stirring in a teaspoon of chili flakes or a few chopped jalapeños while cooking the onions and garlic. You can also add a dollop of hot sauce before serving for a spicy kick.
Chicken and Vegetable Soup with Rice or Pasta:
For a more filling meal, add cooked rice or pasta to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Choose small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or orzo for a perfect bite.
Herb-Infused Chicken Soup:
Add a bouquet garni (a bundle of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves) instead of dried herbs for a more fragrant and flavorful broth. Simply remove the herb bundle before serving.
FAQ:
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat it through.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the fresh vegetables with frozen ones. Just be sure to add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This soup is naturally gluten-free, but make sure the chicken broth you’re using is labeled gluten-free. If you add pasta or other grains, make sure they are gluten-free options.
4. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Feel free to get creative and add any vegetables you like. Kale, spinach, or parsnips would be delicious additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
To spice up this soup, you can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or chopped fresh chilies during the cooking process. For an even deeper heat, try adding a bit of smoked paprika.
Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a simple yet satisfying dish that offers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. With its endless variations and easy preparation, it’s a perfect meal for busy days, chilly nights, or whenever you need a nourishing bowl of soup. Whether you make it your own with additional ingredients or keep it classic, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
ADVERTISEMENT
