ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup Simple Comfort Dish

When comfort food calls, nothing beats a warm bowl of ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup. This simple dish pairs tender chicken and colorful veggies with fun pasta shapes. You can easily whip it up on a busy day, and it’s perfect for sharing with family. In this blog, I’ll guide you through each step, from selecting fresh ingredients to storing leftovers. Get ready to savor a bowl of warmth and joy!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds

- 1 bell pepper, diced

- 1 medium zucchini, diced

- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

The heart of the ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup is the chicken and fresh veggies. The chicken breast gives the soup a nice protein boost. I love using boneless and skinless chicken because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. The onions add sweetness, while garlic, though not listed here, really amps up the taste.

Carrots and bell peppers bring color and crunch. A good mix of veggies enhances both texture and flavor. Zucchini and spinach add more nutrients. These ingredients come together to create a comforting bowl of soup.

Seasonings and Broth

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Seasonings are key to a good soup. Dried thyme and oregano add warmth and earthiness. I recommend low-sodium chicken broth. It allows you to control the salt level while keeping the flavor rich. Taste as you go, and adjust with salt and pepper. This makes sure every spoonful is just right.

Additional Components

- 1 cup alphabet-shaped pasta

- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Alphabet pasta is fun! It makes the soup playful, especially for kids. You can use any pasta you like, but this adds a special touch. Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. It also gives a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the broth.

With these ingredients, you create a dish that is both simple and satisfying. Each component plays an important role, making your ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup a true comfort food.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 finely chopped medium onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it looks soft and translucent. This step is key for building flavor.

Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute. Make sure the garlic does not burn; it should just become fragrant. Then, add in 1 pound of diced boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should brown on all sides before you move on.

Cooking the Vegetables

Now it’s time to add some color and nutrition. Toss in 2 sliced carrots and 1 diced bell pepper of your choice. Sauté these for another 3 minutes until they soften a bit. This adds sweetness and crunch to your soup.

Next, pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mix to a boil. Stir it occasionally to help everything blend nicely. Once the broth bubbles, it’s time to add some fun! Toss in 1 cup of alphabet-shaped pasta, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season it with salt and black pepper to your taste. Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, just until the pasta is al dente.

Final Steps

After 10 minutes, it’s time to add more veggies. Stir in 1 diced zucchini and 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This will soften the zucchini and wilt the spinach nicely.

Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once satisfied, serve the soup hot in bowls. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and flavor!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

How to avoid overcooking chicken To keep chicken juicy, cook it for just 5-7 minutes. Stir it often and watch for a nice golden brown. Take it off the heat as soon as it cooks through.

Timing for adding vegetables Add hard veggies like carrots and bell peppers first. Sauté them for 3 minutes to soften. Then, add quick-cooking veggies like zucchini and spinach later, just before serving. This keeps them bright and fresh.

Presentation Tips

Best bowls for serving Use white bowls to show off the soup's colors. The bright veggies and herbs look great against a white background.

Pairing with bread or crackers Serve the soup with crusty bread or crunchy crackers. This adds texture and makes each bite more fun. A slice of sourdough works well with the soup's warm flavors.

Flavor Enhancements

Suggested herbs and spices Add fresh herbs like basil or dill for extra flavor. They give the soup a fresh taste. You can also try a pinch of cumin for a warm, earthy note.

Combining with different broths Try using vegetable broth for a lighter soup. Beef broth adds a rich flavor. Mixing broths can create a unique taste that fits your mood.

Variations

Protein Options

You can change the protein in this soup. Instead of chicken, try turkey. Turkey has a similar taste and texture. If you want a plant-based option, use tofu. Tofu soaks up the soup's flavors well. For a quick meal, use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and still tastes great.

Vegetable Substitutions

Feel free to mix in different veggies. Peas and corn add sweetness and color. You can also use seasonal vegetables. In fall, add squash or kale. In spring, try asparagus or fresh peas. This soup is flexible to your taste.

Pasta Variations

Pasta can change the texture of the soup. Use gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. It works just as well and keeps it light. You can also try fun shapes like stars or shells. Different shapes make the soup more playful, especially for kids.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

Store your ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup in airtight containers. Let it cool before sealing. This keeps the soup fresh for up to three days. When you reheat it, use low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken. Stir often to keep the texture nice.

Freezing Guidelines

For long-term storage, you can freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top. The soup can last for up to three months in the freezer. This way, you have a quick meal ready when you need it.

Thawing and Reheating

To thaw frozen soup, place it in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, use the microwave on the defrost setting. Reheat it in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently. This helps keep the flavors and texture the same as fresh.

FAQs

How long does ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup last in the fridge?

ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. Make sure to cool the soup first before putting it in the fridge. Always check for any changes in smell or color before eating.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day! To enhance the flavors, let it cool, then store in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. If you want, add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

What can I serve with ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup?

You can serve this soup with crusty bread or crackers. These sides add a nice crunch. A simple salad also pairs well, bringing freshness to the meal. For a hearty touch, consider grilled cheese sandwiches. They make a great match with the warm soup.

You now have all the steps to create a delicious ABC Chicken and Veggie Soup. We covered the main ingredients, cooking methods, and handy tips. You can mix up the recipe with different proteins or veggies to keep it fresh. Remember, storing and reheating properly keeps your soup tasty and safe. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don't forget to share it with friends or family! Your homemade soup is a warm hug in a bowl.