Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup
Nothing beats a warm, nourishing bowl of homemade soup, and this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup is comfort food at its finest—without any of the guilt. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a savory broth, loaded with colorful vegetables, herbs, and a hint of garlic. It’s hearty, wholesome, and so satisfying that one spoonful will make you feel cozy from the inside out. Trust me, this one’s a keeper for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a little liquid comfort.
Recipe Origin:
This recipe is inspired by classic homemade chicken soups, with a healthy twist—loaded with vegetables, lean protein, and a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for a cold day, post-workout refuel, or anytime you crave a nourishing, warm bowl of goodness.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle for serving
Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6–8 servings
Description
This Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup is a cozy, nutrient-packed classic that’s full of fresh flavors and hearty goodness. Made with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a rich broth, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and nourishment. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or just craving something warm and satisfying, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1½ tablespoons olive or avocado oil, extra virgin
- ½ white or yellow onion, diced
- 3 celery ribs, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1½ pounds chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
- 10 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (carrot, green bean, and corn mix; 10 or 12 ounces work)
- ½ medium cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes (fire roasted preferred)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the olive or avocado oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion and celery, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock or broth and add the chicken breasts or thighs.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables, cabbage, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness, if desired.
Notes
- Make it heartier: Add cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta to the soup.
- Low-carb option: Skip the corn mix and swap with extra green beans, zucchini, or spinach.
- Meal prep friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Why You’ll Love Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup
This isn’t just a soup; it’s a wholesome, comforting meal that hits all the right notes:
Wholesome and Nourishing: Packed with lean chicken and nutrient-rich vegetables for a healthy, filling meal.
Easy and Hands-On Friendly: Simple steps and everyday ingredients make it approachable for any cook.
Customizable: Swap vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal preferences.
Family-Friendly: Mild, comforting flavors that both kids and adults will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Weeknight dinners, meal prep for the week, or a comforting lunch.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs if you want extra flavor in the broth; remove bones before serving.
- Sauté onions, celery, and garlic first to enhance the flavor base.
- Don’t overcook vegetables—they should remain slightly crisp to retain texture and nutrients.
- Taste and adjust seasonings toward the end for optimal flavor.
Ingredients in Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup
Here’s what makes this soup wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying:
Olive or Avocado Oil: Adds richness while keeping it light and healthy.
Onion: Builds a flavorful base and subtle sweetness in the broth.
Celery Ribs: Contribute aromatic depth and a slight crunch.
Garlic: Adds warmth and aroma that enhances every bite.
Chicken Stock or Broth: The foundation of the soup—rich, savory, and nourishing.
Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Lean protein that stays tender and juicy.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Convenient and colorful—carrots, green beans, and corn for a nutrient boost.
Cabbage: Adds fiber, bulk, and subtle sweetness.
Canned Diced Tomatoes (Fire Roasted Preferred): Adds tang, depth, and a slightly smoky flavor.
Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Black Pepper: Classic herbs and seasonings that elevate every layer of flavor.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Follow these steps for a hearty, homemade soup:
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large stockpot, heat olive or avocado oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
Add Chicken and Broth: Pour in chicken stock and add chicken breasts or thighs. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken is just cooked through.
Add Vegetables and Cabbage: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, chopped cabbage, and canned diced tomatoes. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Season the Soup: Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Shred Chicken: Remove chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup for even distribution.
Simmer to Combine: Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to allow all flavors to meld together.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated parmesan for extra flavor.
How to Serve Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup
This soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
Salads: A light green salad complements the richness of the soup.
Grains: Serve with cooked rice, quinoa, or barley for a heartier meal.
As a Standalone Dish: Hearty enough to enjoy on its own for a healthy, balanced meal.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and store in airtight containers for easy assembly later.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Variations to Try:
- Add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
Additional Tips
- Layer Flavors: Sauté aromatics first for a deeper, richer taste.
- Maintain Texture: Add delicate vegetables like spinach or peas toward the end to keep them vibrant.
- Boost Flavor: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the soup before serving.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken?
A1: Yes! It adds extra flavor to the broth. Remove bones before serving.
Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable stock.
Q3: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A3: Yes! Layer ingredients and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
Q4: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A4: Absolutely! Adjust cooking times as needed for tender-crisp texture.
Q5: Can I freeze this soup?
A5: Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q6: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A6: Yes, add shredded pre-cooked chicken in the last 10–15 minutes of simmering.
Q7: Can I add noodles or rice?
A7: Yes, but add toward the end to prevent overcooking and mushiness.
Q8: Can I make it spicier?
A8: Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce to taste.
Q9: Can I use homemade chicken stock?
A9: Definitely! Homemade stock will make the soup even more flavorful.
Q10: How can I store and reheat leftovers?
A10: Refrigerate in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Conclusion
Healthy Homemade Chicken Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. Simple to make yet incredibly delicious, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
