Chicken Vegetable Soup

This homemade chicken vegetable soup is a comforting, nutritious meal packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes, and flavorful herbs like thyme and fresh dill. Perfect for chilly nights, this healthy soup is also great for meal prep or as a light, wholesome lunch or dinner. With the added goodness of rice, it’s a filling, one-pot dish that’s easy to make and customizable to your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie, protein-packed meal or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this chicken vegetable soup is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme
• 8 cups water
• ½ cup short grain rice
• 2 roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small zucchini, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables soften slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Push the vegetables to the sides of the pot and place the chicken breasts in the center. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 5 minutes, then flip it to the other side.
4. Add the water, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Once cooled slightly, cut the chicken into small cubes and return it to the pot.
6. Add the rice, chopped tomatoes, and zucchini to the soup. Continue to simmer uncovered over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broth has reduced slightly.
7. Remove the soup from the heat, then stir in the fresh dill and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting & Nourishing: This hearty chicken vegetable soup is loaded with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it the perfect meal for any time of year.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh dill, thyme, and lemon juice adds a burst of flavor to the savory broth, while the rice adds a satisfying texture.
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it easy and convenient.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains to make this soup your own.

Tips

• If you prefer a more intense chicken flavor, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs instead of boneless. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more water or reducing it further for a richer broth.
• For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken and add it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• If you like your soup spicier, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of water.
• Other Vegetables: Add leafy greens like spinach, kale, or chard, or include peas or green beans for extra color and texture.
• Grain Substitutes: You can replace short-grain rice with quinoa, barley, or even whole wheat pasta for a different twist.
• Herb Variations: Use parsley, cilantro, or oregano in place of dill for a slightly different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen carrots, celery, and zucchini can be used in place of fresh vegetables. Add them during the cooking process just as you would with fresh vegetables.

How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños during the cooking process to add heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

Serving

• Serve the soup with a warm piece of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top adds extra richness.
• Pair with a refreshing lemon or cucumber salad for a light side dish.

Suggestions

• For extra flavor, drizzle a little extra olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over each bowl before serving.
• Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a burst of green.
• If you enjoy a richer broth, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.