Chicken Vegetable Soup Busting Myths And Celebrating A Hearty Delight

Immerse yourself in the world of homely comfort with the warmth of chicken vegetable soup recipe – a symphony of flavors and a treasure trove of nourishment. This soothing blend, brimming with chunks of chicken and garden-fresh vegetables, makes for an irresistible culinary journey.

Each spoonful is a promise of wellness, wrapped in a velvet blanket of mouthwatering broth. The magic unfolds as the chicken lends its savory notes, intertwining seamlessly with the earthy goodness of a plethora of vegetables.

Whether you’re seeking refuge from the cold, yearning for a nostalgic taste of home, or simply desiring a quick yet fulfilling meal, chicken vegetable soup becomes an ideal companion. Let’s delve into the wonders of this timeless bowl of comfort, exploring its versatile charm and undiscovered potential.

Join us as we celebrate this humble yet potent concoction of tastes and textures, enriching our palates one spoonful at a time.

What Is Chicken Vegetable Soup?

Chicken vegetable soup is a comforting and hearty dish made by simmering chunks of chicken, a variety of fresh vegetables, and often aromatic herbs and spices in a flavorful broth. Key ingredients can include onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, with variations introducing ingredients like peas, corn, or even leafy greens. 

This soup is renowned for its therapeutic properties, delivering a nourishing, balanced meal that’s both delicious and healthful. It’s a versatile dish, easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

History Of Chicken Vegetable Soup

The history of chicken vegetable soup traces back to the very origin of cooking when the first soups were made by simmering meat, including chicken, with vegetables in water. Its widespread appeal owes much to its adaptability and the global ubiquity of its main ingredients. 

Recipes vary significantly worldwide, with regional adaptations reflecting local tastes and ingredient availability. For instance, it’s often considered comfort food in America, helping people recuperate from illness. It’s integral to family traditions and festive meals in many cultures. 

Despite these variations, the core principle remains the same – a warming, hearty, and nutritious meal.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Vegetable Soup

• Versatility: Chicken vegetable soup is remarkably versatile. Its recipe can be easily modified to incorporate local flavors or dietary requirements, making it famous worldwide.
• Nutrition: The soup is a balanced meal packed with lean protein from the chicken and a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the vegetables. Plus, the broth can aid hydration.
• Ancient Origins: Soup is one of the oldest forms of food, dating back thousands of years. Chicken vegetable soup, being one of the most basic variations, shares this ancient lineage.
• Comfort Food: Many cultures view chicken vegetable soup as a comfort food, often served when one is feeling unwell due to its easy digestibility and therapeutic properties.
• Zero Waste: The soup often employs parts of vegetables and chicken that might otherwise be wasted, making it an eco-friendly meal choice.
• Cultural Significance: In many cultures, specific versions of chicken vegetable soup are associated with holidays, family traditions, or cultural ceremonies.

What Makes Chicken Vegetable Soup Special?

Chicken vegetable soup is special for a multitude of reasons. Its most distinct feature lies in its unique blend of hearty and comforting flavors, balanced by the nutritious ingredients it encompasses.

The simplicity and versatility of this soup also add to its charm. It can be made with nearly any vegetables on hand, allowing for numerous variations to suit one’s preference or dietary requirements. This flexibility makes it a universal dish, enjoyed in countless forms across various cultures.

Another aspect that makes it special is its therapeutic properties. Many consider chicken vegetable soup a go-to food during sickness or recovery, believing in its power to soothe and heal.

Ingredients List

Ingredient Tips

• Freshness Matters: Use the freshest ingredients for your soup, whether it’s the chicken or the vegetables. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
• Chicken Choice: A whole chicken, bone-in breasts, or thighs can add more flavor to the soup. Remember, bones can impart a depth of flavor and richness to the broth.
• Vegetable Varieties: Don’t limit yourself to traditional veggies like carrots, celery, and onions. Feel free to experiment with others like bell peppers, peas, or leafy greens like spinach or kale.
• Herb Selection: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or dill can lift the taste of your soup. Remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use them sparingly.
• Season Well: Proper seasoning is vital. Remember to season with salt and pepper as you build your soup, tasting regularly to ensure a flavorful end result.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Different Proteins: If you want to switch up the protein, you can use turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables that aren’t traditionally included in the recipe. This could be anything from bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes to leafy greens like kale or spinach.
• Grains: For added texture and heartiness, add grains like rice, barley, or even small pasta shapes.
• Beans: Beans can provide extra protein and fiber. Consider varieties like cannellini beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans.
• Spices: Depending on your palate, you can incorporate spices like turmeric, cumin, or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
• International Twists: You can even give your soup an international twist by adding ingredients like coconut milk and curry powder for a Thai-inspired version or tortilla strips, lime, and cilantro for a Mexican twist.

Recipe Directions 

• In a large pot, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
• Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until it is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Next, add the frozen diced carrots to the pot and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
• Pour in the tomato-vegetable juice cocktail and water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
• Add the farfalle pasta and Italian seasoning to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
• Finally, add the frozen chopped spinach to the soup and stir until it’s well incorporated. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is heated through.
• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve the chicken vegetable soup hot, and enjoy!

Variations, Add-Ons And Toppings

Variations

• Asian Inspired: Add ginger, lemongrass, and soy sauce for an Asian twist, serving it with a side of steamed rice.
• Italian Style: Include Italian herbs like basil and oregano, and add cannellini beans and ditalini pasta for a minestrone-like variation.
• Mexican Flavor: Add in some black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a hint of chili for a Mexican version.

Add-Ons

• Grains: Add barley, rice, pasta, or quinoa to make your soup more filling.
• Beans: Chickpeas, kidney beans, or lentils can add extra protein and texture.
• Greens: Stir in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard towards the end of cooking for added nutrients.

Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, dill, or basil on top just before serving to add a pop of fresh flavor.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan or a dollop of ricotta can add a pleasant creamy richness.
• Croutons: Add some homemade croutons for a delightful crunch.
• Spice: For those who like it hot, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkling of red pepper flakes can elevate the soup’s heat level.

Scaling The Recipe 

• Scaling up the recipe

To increase the servings and make a larger soup batch, you can multiply all the ingredients by the desired factor. For example, if you want to double the recipe, you would multiply each ingredient quantity by 2. If you’re going to triple it, multiply each quantity by 3, and so on.

• Scaling down the recipe

To reduce the servings and make a smaller batch of soup, you can divide all the ingredient quantities by the desired factor. For example, if you’re going to make half the recipe, you must divide each ingredient quantity by 2. If you’re going to make one-third of the recipe, you must divide each quantity by 3, and so on.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Fresh Herbs: Sprigs of fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or cilantro add not only a burst of color but also a fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can add a delightful salty tang and a touch of luxury.
• Cream: A swirl of cream or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can create a rich contrast and add a creamy texture.
• Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime just before serving can brighten up the soup and balance its flavors.
• Green Onions or Chives: A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions or chives adds color, texture, and a mild onion flavor.
• Croutons or Seeds: Consider homemade croutons or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
• Drizzle of Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive or chili oil can add a glossy finish and an extra depth of flavor.

Can I Make The Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Place your chicken, vegetables, herbs, spices, and broth in the slow cooker. If using whole chicken pieces, ensure they’re bone-in for maximum flavor.
• Set your slow cooker on low and let it cook for about 6-8 hours. Setting it on high for 3-4 hours also works if you’re short on time.
• If you use whole chicken pieces, remove them after cooking, shred the meat, discard the bones, and return the meat to the pot.
• Adjust the seasoning if needed, and your soup is ready to serve.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, lightly sauté your vegetables in a bit of oil before adding the chicken, herbs, spices, and broth. Sautéing can help develop deeper flavors.
• Seal your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure the valve is set to sealing.
• After cooking, let the pressure naturally release for at least 10 minutes before turning the valve to venting.
• Like with the slow cooker, if you use whole chicken pieces, remove them, shred the meat, discard the bones, and return the meat to the pot.
• Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth Or Should I Make My Own?

• Store-bought Broth: This is a convenient option and perfect for when you’re short on time. Look for low-sodium varieties to control your salt intake better. Also, choose organic or high-quality brands for better flavor and fewer additives.

• Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade broth is an excellent choice. It allows you to control the ingredients and the flavor profile. Homemade broth can be made in large quantities and frozen in batches for later use, and it’s a great way to use up chicken bones and vegetable scraps, reducing food waste.

Can I Use Different Types Of Fish/Meat/Pasta/Vegetables?

• Fish: A firm white fish like cod or haddock can work well, or even shellfish like shrimp. Just be aware that the cooking times for fish will be much less than for chicken.
• Meat: You could replace the chicken with beef, turkey, pork, or even game meats like venison. Just ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked before serving.
• Pasta: You can add pasta to make the soup heartier. Small shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even tortellini are good choices. Remember to cook the pasta separately and add it at the end to prevent it from absorbing too much broth and becoming soggy.
• Vegetables: The possibilities here are endless. You can experiment with zucchini, bell peppers, green beans, butternut squash, peas, spinach, or even corn. Just be aware that different vegetables have different cooking times. Leafy greens and peas, for example, only need a few minutes. 

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For The Recipe 

• Sauté the onions and garlic until they are fragrant for enhanced flavor.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding other ingredients.
• Use a quality tomato-vegetable juice cocktail for a rich and flavorful base.
• Don’t overcook the pasta to maintain a good texture.
• Adjust seasonings to taste, and consider adding additional herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Prepping Tips

• Prep Ahead: If you have a busy day ahead, you can chop all the vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves time when you’re ready to cook.
• Even Pieces: When chopping your vegetables, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Garlic Technique: For the garlic, use a garlic press for a fine mince, or if chopping by hand, crush the garlic first with the flat side of your knife to make peeling easier.
• Spinach Prep: Rinse the spinach thoroughly to remove dirt or grit. Also, rough chopping is fine as it will wilt down in the soup.
• Chicken Choice: You can use boneless chicken breast or thighs, depending on your preference. Just ensure the pieces are cut small enough to cook quickly and evenly.

Cooking Time Tips

• Sauteing: Don’t rush the initial sauté of the chicken, onion, and garlic. This step is crucial for flavor development.
• Simmering: Once you bring your soup to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer, resist the temptation to increase the heat. Slow, gentle cooking melds the flavors together more effectively.
• Pasta Cooking: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook as long as it’s in the hot soup, even off the heat. It’s better to err on the side of undercooking it slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Spinach Addition: Adding the spinach towards the end of cooking keeps it vibrant and just wilted. Overcooking spinach can result in a less appealing color and texture.
• Taste as You Go: Ensure to taste your soup towards the end of cooking and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can add more, but correcting if you’ve added too much isn’t easy.

Nutritional Values

The nutritional values of the chicken vegetable soup can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. On average, a serving of this soup contains approximately 200-250 calories, 15-20 grams of protein, 4-6 grams of fat, 25-30 grams of carbohydrates, and 4-6 grams of fiber. 

It provides a balanced combination of nutrients, including lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables and pasta, and essential vitamins and minerals from the tomato-vegetable juice cocktail. 

As with any recipe, it’s important to consider portion sizes and individual dietary needs when determining the overall nutritional impact of the soup.

What Are Total Calories In The Recipe?

A serving of chicken vegetable soup ranges from 200-250 calories. If a standard recipe makes about 6 servings, the total calories would be around 1,200-1,500 calories for the entire batch of soup.

Dietary Restrictions For The Recipe

• Gluten-Free: The macaroni in this recipe contains gluten. To make this soup gluten-free, you could use gluten-free pasta instead.
• Dairy-Free: The butter used for sautéing could contain dairy. Substitute this soup with non-dairy butter or olive oil to make it dairy-free.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe includes chicken unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. You could omit the chicken and add more vegetables or some beans for protein to make it vegetarian. You would also need to replace the butter with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.
• Low Sodium: Store-bought vegetable juice and chicken broth often contain high sodium levels. To reduce sodium, look for low-sodium or no-salt-added versions of these ingredients, or make your own at home.
• Nut-Free: This recipe is nut-free unless served with nutcrackers, so check the label.
• Egg-Free: This recipe is egg-free unless it’s being served with egg noodles instead of macaroni, so make sure to stick to egg-free pasta if this is a dietary requirement.

Health Benefits Of The Recipe 

• Protein Source: Chicken is a rich source of lean protein essential for building and repairing body tissues, including muscles. It also aids in creating enzymes and hormones.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like carrots and spinach provide a wide array of vitamins and minerals. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (which our bodies convert to Vitamin A), beneficial for eye health. Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, including iron, calcium, and Vitamins K, A, and C.
• Hydrating: The soup’s broth base helps maintain hydration, which is crucial for nearly all bodily functions.
• Digestive Health: If whole-grain pasta is used, it can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.
• Immune Boosting: Onion and garlic both contain compounds that have been shown to boost immune function. A warm bowl of chicken soup is often recommended as a home remedy 
• Low in Fat and Calories:This soup is relatively low in calories and fat (mainly if lean chicken is used and butter is limited), making it a good choice for those watching their calorie intake or trying to lose weight.

Nutritional Table

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Broth: Use a low-sodium or sodium-free chicken broth. Store-bought broths can be high in sodium. Alternatively, you can make your own broth at home, which allows you to control the amount of salt added.
• Tomato Vegetable Juice: Many commercial tomato juices can be high in sodium. Look for a low-sodium version, or consider using fresh tomatoes instead. If using canned tomatoes, opt for those with no added salt.
• Seasoning: Limit the amount of added salt. Often, the flavor of soup can be enhanced using other seasonings like herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley) and spices (pepper, paprika, turmeric) or aromatics (garlic, onion) instead of relying solely on salt.
• Pre-packaged Ingredients: If you’re adding any pre-packaged ingredients like canned vegetables, choose those that are labeled “no salt added” or “low sodium.”
• Taste Test: Taste your soup as you cook it. Sometimes, adding an acidic ingredient like a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can brighten the flavors of a dish, reducing the need for extra salt.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Broth: Store-bought broths can sometimes contain added sugars. Check the labels for any hidden sugars, and opt for varieties without added sugar.
• Tomato Vegetable Juice: Many commercial tomato juices have added sugars. Opt for a no-sugar-added version, or consider using fresh tomatoes. If using canned tomatoes, look for ones with no added sugar.
• Vegetables: Use fresh vegetables instead of canned ones, as canned vegetables can contain added sugars for preservation.
• Seasoning: Be careful with sauces and seasonings you add to your soup, as they can also contain added sugars. Always check the label and opt for no-sugar-added versions when possible.
• Preparation: Opt for roasting or caramelizing your vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness. This will reduce the need for added sugars to enhance flavor.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

• Heat Properly: Always serve your soup hot. Cold or lukewarm soup can compromise the taste and texture. If you’ve made the soup in advance, reheat it gently on the stove until it’s thoroughly warm, but avoid letting it boil as it may overcook the vegetables or chicken.
• Use Warm Bowls: To keep your soup warm for longer, try heating your soup bowls before serving. Just fill them with hot water for a minute or two, then pour out the water and dry them before adding the soup.
• Garnish: Use a final garnish to add a visual appeal and extra flavor. This could be a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, a sprinkling of cheese, a drizzle of good quality olive oil, or a twist of fresh ground black pepper. A lemon wedge served on the side can also be a nice touch, as fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
• Accompaniments: Consider what to serve alongside your soup. A slice of crusty bread, a side salad, or some whole-grain crackers can add a nice contrast in texture. You can also provide additional condiments like hot sauce or extra herbs on the side for guests to add to their liking.
• Portion Size: If serving as a starter, keep portions small to leave room for the main course. If it’s the main meal, be generous with your portion size and consider serving with a protein-packed side for a complete meal.
• Presentation: Lastly, remember the importance of presentation. A colorful garnish, a beautiful soup bowl, a clean placemat or tablecloth, and good lighting can make your soup look as good as it tastes.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Recipe

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all those delicious flavors. You could try garlic bread or cheesy toast for a different take.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette can provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic partner for soup, a grilled cheese sandwich adds a satisfying, savory element to your meal. Experiment with different cheeses for a gourmet twist.
• Roasted Veggies: Consider a side of roasted vegetables if you’re in the mood for even more veggies. This can add a different texture and flavor profile to your meal.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: If you want to make the meal heartier, a side of quinoa or brown rice can add more substance and provide extra fiber and nutrients.
• Pita Chips or Crackers: These can add a crunchy contrast to the soft textures of the soup. Try whole-grain crackers for a healthier option.
• Savory Muffins: Something like a cornbread muffin or a cheese and herb muffin can be a delightful accompaniment to your soup.
• Flatbread: A nice garlic or herb flatbread can be delicious and great for dipping.

How Long Can We Store The Soup ?

• Refrigerator: The soup can generally be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Be sure to store it in airtight containers to preserve its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.

• Freezer: If you want to store the soup longer, you can freeze it. Once cooled, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It’s generally recommended to use frozen soup within 4 to 6 months for best quality, although it will remain safe beyond that time too. 
• Reheating: When ready to eat, if refrigerated, heat the soup over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until hot. If frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, although you can also reheat it directly from the freezer; just allow extra time.

Can I Make Soup In Advance ?

• Cool it quickly: If you’re planning to store the soup, it’s crucial to cool it down quickly after cooking to prevent bacteria growth. Spread the soup out in shallow containers to help it cool faster.
• Store properly: If the soup has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag if it is freezing. Remember not to overfill the containers if you’re freezing, as the soup will expand as it freezes.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until it’s thoroughly heated through. If it’s frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results before reheating.
• Add certain ingredients later: Some ingredients, like pasta or certain delicate vegetables, can become mushy if added to the soup too early. Consider adding these when you’re reheating the soup to maintain their texture.
• Garnishes: If you’re using any garnishes like fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, adding them before serving rather than storing them to preserve their fresh flavor and color is best.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Stew: Add in some cooked beans or lentils, more vegetables, and possibly some cubed potatoes. Allow these to simmer until they’re well-incorporated and tender, and you’ll have a hearty stew.
• Pasta Sauce: Reduce your soup until it’s thicker and toss it with freshly cooked pasta. Add a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs on top for a delicious and easy pasta dish.
• Rice Dish: Use the soup as a cooking liquid for rice or grains like quinoa or barley. The grains will absorb the flavorful broth, creating a tasty and filling side or main dish.
• Pie Filling: Reduce the soup until it’s pretty thick, then use it as a filling for a savory pot pie. Top with a pie crust or puff pastry and bake until golden.
• Chicken Noodle Soup: Add some cooked noodles to your soup for a classic chicken noodle soup. This can be a great way to stretch leftovers further.
• Freeze for Later: You can always freeze your leftover soup for another day. It makes for a quick and easy meal when you don’t have time to cook.

Special Tools/Equipment 

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sizable pot with a lid is necessary for cooking the soup and allowing it to simmer.
• Cutting board and knife: To chop the onions, garlic, and chicken, you’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These utensils help stir the soup as it cooks.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurately measuring ingredients ensures the right balance of flavors.
• Can opener: If using a canned tomato-vegetable juice cocktail, a can opener will be required to open the can.
• Ladle: A ladle comes in handy to serve the soup in bowls.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead Of Frozen Ones?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen ones in the chicken vegetable soup recipe. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the soup during the cooking process.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Farfalle pasta adds a nice texture, but you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.

Can I Make This Soup In Advance And Reheat It?

Yes, you can make the soup in advance and reheat it when needed. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Can I Add Other Herbs Or Spices To Enhance The Flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the chicken vegetable soup. Common additions include thyme, oregano, bay leaves, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Can I Freeze The Soup For Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken vegetable soup for later use. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Make sure to leave some room for expansion, and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Chicken Vegetable Soup Busting Myths And Celebrating A Hearty Delight

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipe

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

This chicken soup is a comforting and nutritious dish combining tender pieces of chicken, diced vegetables, pasta, and flavorful seasonings in a tomato-vegetable broth.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Onion

• Garlic

• Margarine

• Frozen diced carrots

• Tomato-vegetable juice cocktail

• Water

• Farfalle pasta

• Italian seasoning

• Frozen chopped spinach

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Preparation Steps
  Prep your ingredients. Dice the chicken, onion, and carrots, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach. Set aside.
• Cooking Directions
  Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the butter or margarine, letting it melt.
  Once the butter is melted, add the chicken, onion, and garlic to the saucepan. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes or until the onions become tender.
  Next, add the diced carrots to the saucepan. Pour in the tomato vegetable juice and water, followed by the macaroni and your chosen seasonings. Stir everything together to combine.
  Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
  Cover the saucepan and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the macaroni to cook.
  After 20 minutes, uncover the saucepan and add the chopped spinach. Cook for 5 more minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and become tender.
• Final Touches And Serving
  Taste the soup. If needed, adjust the seasonings.
  Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve it with your favorite crackers on the side for a delightful crunch.
• Additional Options
  For a heartier soup, consider adding beans or lentils.
  You can replace the spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard.
  If you prefer a different pasta, feel free to substitute the macaroni with orzo, ditalini, or even mini farfalle.
  To give your soup a creamy texture, stir in a spoonful of cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

Recipe Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOjsAUktnhg

Notes

• You can use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless if you prefer. Just make sure to remove the bones before adding the chicken to the soup.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables in the soup. For extra flavor and variety, you can add other favorites like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn kernels.
• You can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of a tomato-vegetable juice cocktail if you prefer a vegetarian version. Add extra vegetables or legumes for added protein.
• Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water or broth if needed.
• For a creamier soup, you can stir in a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
• Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added pop of freshness.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hey everyone, my name is Hanna, and I am a writer here at Soup Chick! I came across Lana’s website a few years back, and it reignited my love for making homemade broths and soups that wouldn’t break the bank, and would help me get all of my veggies in!

Here at SoupChick.com, I can offer you a range of different recipes to try, from basic broths, to making your own slow cooker chicken tortilla soup (trust me on this one- it is divine).

I hope that you enjoy making your own as much as I love finding new recipes for you!

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