High-Protein Chicken Veggie Soup Simple and Delicious

Looking for a hearty meal that packs a protein punch? This High-Protein Chicken Veggie Soup is your solution! With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful spices, you'll enjoy a warm bowl that nourishes your body and soul. I’ll walk you through each simple step, making this soup easy to create and even easier to love. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients

To make a hearty high-protein chicken veggie soup, you need fresh and wholesome ingredients. Here’s the list of what you’ll need:

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g), diced

- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 1 red bell pepper, diced

- 1 medium zucchini, diced

- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut

- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

- 1 can (15 oz or 425g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

- Juice of 1 medium lemon

Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and nutrition. Chicken gives protein, while the veggies bring fiber and vitamins. The spices add depth, and broth keeps it comforting. Enjoy the fresh taste of spinach and a hint of lemon to brighten it up!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

- Sautéing the chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Stir often to cook evenly.

- Setting aside cooked chicken

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and place it on a plate. Set this aside for later.

Cooking the Vegetables

- Sautéing onions and garlic

In the same pot, add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir until the onion becomes soft and clear.

- Adding remaining vegetables

Next, toss in 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for another 5 minutes. Stir often to keep them from sticking.

Bringing It All Together

- Adding broth and chickpeas

Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add 1 can of drained, rinsed chickpeas. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

- Simmering and combining flavors

Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the cooked chicken back into the pot. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes so flavors can blend well.

- Adding spinach and lemon juice

Just before serving, fold in 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Squeeze in the juice of 1 medium lemon. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and brightens. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Soup

To keep your veggies from getting mushy, watch the cooking time. Sauté the carrots and celery for just five minutes. When you add zucchini and green beans, cook for only three more minutes. This way, they stay crisp and colorful.

Taste your soup before serving. If it needs more flavor, add a pinch of salt or pepper. You can also squeeze in more lemon juice for brightness.

Recipe Substitutions

If you want, you can swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a different twist. Both options provide great protein. For veggies, feel free to use broccoli, peas, or corn. They all work well in this soup.

Enhancing Presentation

To make your soup look fancy, ladle it into deep bowls. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color. You can also serve lemon wedges on the side. This lets guests add a zesty kick to their soup.

Variations

Different Flavor Profiles

You can change the taste of your High-Protein Chicken Veggie Soup with a few spices. Try adding cumin for a warm, earthy flavor. Paprika gives a nice smoky kick. These spices can really lift the soup. You can also switch broths. If you want a lighter taste, use vegetable broth. For a richer flavor, beef broth works well too. Each option adds a unique twist to the soup.

Dietary Adaptations

This soup can easily fit many diets. If you are gluten-free, check your broth for any gluten. You can use gluten-free chickpeas and still enjoy great taste. For vegetarians or vegans, swap out chicken with extra chickpeas or tofu. Just sauté the tofu like you would the chicken. This keeps the protein high and the flavor bold.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your soup with warm bread or a fresh salad. A light arugula salad with lemon dressing complements the soup nicely. If you plan to meal prep, this soup is perfect. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Add some whole-grain crackers on the side for a crunchy bite. Serve the soup hot, and it will warm you right up!

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage

To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature. Then, pour it into airtight containers. This helps keep it fresh and tasty. I recommend using glass containers. They do not absorb odors and are easy to clean.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, the best method is to use the stove. Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium until warm. Stir it often to prevent sticking. You can also use a microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. If you wish to store the soup for longer, freeze it in portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the soup lasts about 3 to 4 days. Always check for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or has a strange color, it’s best to throw it away. Freshness is key to enjoying this soup!

FAQs

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey breast as a great chicken substitute. It has a similar taste and texture. If you prefer plant-based options, try using tofu or tempeh. Both will absorb flavors well and provide protein. Another option is chickpeas. They add a different texture and boost the protein too.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. Use freezer-safe bags if you want to save space. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs add a bright flavor to your soup. Use about three times more fresh herbs than dried ones. For example, if the recipe calls for one teaspoon of dried thyme, use three teaspoons of fresh thyme. Just chop them finely before adding.

How can I make it spicier?

To add heat to your soup, consider using red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust. You can also add diced jalapeños or fresh chili peppers to the mix. This will give your soup a nice kick.

What are the nutritional benefits of chickpeas?

Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber. They help keep you full longer. They also contain vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and magnesium. This makes them a great addition to your diet. Eating chickpeas may support heart health and digestion too.

This blog post shared how to make a delicious soup with simple ingredients. We covered chicken, vegetables, spices, broth, and optional garnishes. I walked you through step-by-step instructions to prepare the meal and offered tips to boost flavor and presentation.

Remember to store your soup correctly for the best taste, and don't hesitate to try variations. You can mix in spices or substitute proteins. With this guide, you can create a warming dish that anyone will enjoy. Enjoy cooking and making new memories with your soup!