Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup

Name: Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, chopped; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1 cup bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for sautéing

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love making this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup on chilly evenings. The vibrant colors of the vegetables paired with tender chicken create a comforting dish that's both nourishing and satisfying. It's also a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of nutrients, making it perfect for the whole family. Plus, I enjoy experimenting with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor, ensuring each batch is unique. This soup has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:53:36.936Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup, I was just trying to use up some vegetables in my fridge. What started as a really simple dish quickly turned into a weekly tradition. The key to its amazing flavor lies in the fresh herbs I add, like thyme and parsley, which elevate the entire dish.

I've learned through practice that allowing the soup to simmer for a little longer enhances the flavors immensely. Each spoonful is filled with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth that warms the soul. It's become my go-to recipe for gathering friends and family around the table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal.
Packed with nutritious vegetables for a healthy boost.
Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings.

Ingredient Insights

Each vegetable in this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup plays a crucial role in building flavor and nutritional value. Carrots add a natural sweetness, while celery contributes a crisp texture and aromatic depth. Bell peppers not only brighten the dish with vibrant color but also provide a rich source of vitamin C, which can enhance your immune system. Zucchini, with its mild flavor, absorbs the delicious broth and thickens the consistency, making each spoonful comforting and hearty.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best results. Opt for organic chicken when possible; its flavor can greatly enhance the soup. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley not only add vibrant notes but also boost overall nutrition. If you're in a pinch, you can use dried herbs; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so reduce the amount by a third when substituting.

Cooking Techniques

The sautéing step is key for developing a rich base flavor in your soup. When cooking the chicken, ensure it's cut into uniform pieces; this allows for even cooking and browning. Once the chicken is nicely browned—look for a golden finish—add the garlic to infuse the oil with its essence. Sauté until fragrant but avoid burning the garlic, as this can introduce a bitter taste to your soup.

Simmering is where the magic happens! After adding the broth and remaining ingredients, keep the soup at a gentle simmer. This allows the vegetables to soften without losing their bright colors and nutrients. Stir occasionally and keep it uncovered for the first 10 minutes; this helps reduce the liquid slightly and intensifies the flavors. If you notice too much liquid, let it simmer a bit longer. I usually check the texture of the zucchini around the 15-minute mark.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 chicken breasts, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup bell pepper, chopped
1 cup zucchini, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

Steps

Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Add the Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth, and add the zucchini, thyme, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the vegetables are tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand or to adjust the herbs according to your taste preferences. For some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option, perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire soup, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; it can last up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from becoming too thick as it warms.

If you decide to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the zucchini until you reheat. This prevents it from becoming mushy during the freezing process. When ready to serve, simply add fresh zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking, allowing it to retain its texture while still absorbing that delicious flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup is versatile enough to be served on its own or as a hearty starter. For a complete meal, pair it with a slice of crusty whole grain bread, or serve it over cooked quinoa or brown rice for added heartiness. You can also accompany it with a simple green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the flavors.

For extra flavor, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. For a hint of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick that elevates the entire dish. Personalize it further by adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving, enhancing the freshness and balancing the soup’s richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work great and can save you some prep time.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free, and you should be good to go!

→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.