Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Name: Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup, especially on chilly days. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables bring so much life to the kitchen. This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly nourishing, packed with protein from the chicken and a variety of vitamins from the vegetables. With just a bit of prep, I can have a healthy, flavorful meal ready in no time. It's a great way to warm up and fuel my body with wholesome ingredients.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:58:28.090Z

When I first tried creating this Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup, I wanted to ensure it was packed with nutritious ingredients. I experimented with different combinations of veggies and spices, ultimately deciding on a blend of carrots, spinach, and quinoa to boost the nutrition. The key is cooking the chicken first, allowing the broth to soak in all the flavors before adding the vegetables.

As I made it a few times, I learned that using fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro really elevates the dish. They add brightness and depth that you can't replicate with dried herbs. I love serving this soup with a side of crusty bread—it makes for a perfect cozy meal!

        Why You'll Love This Soup
        Packed with protein from lean chicken and quinoa
Vibrant blend of fresh vegetables adds color and nutrients
A comforting dish that warms you from the inside out

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables in Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup is crucial for both flavor and nutritional value. Ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, and spinach not only enhance the soup’s color but also provide a range of vitamins and minerals. I recommend choosing vegetables that are in season to ensure optimal taste and quality. Additionally, chopping them into uniform sizes helps them cook evenly, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully without any ingredients being overcooked or undercooked.

Don’t hesitate to customize your vegetable selection based on what you have available or your personal preferences. For instance, adding zucchini or green beans can introduce different textures and flavors while keeping the soup nutritious. Just be mindful that softer vegetables will cook faster, so add them later in the cooking process to maintain some bite and avoid mushiness.

Cooking Technique Tips

The initial cooking of the chicken in olive oil is a technique that not only seals in moisture but also creates a rich base flavor for the soup. Make sure to let the chicken sear undisturbed for about 4 minutes on each side until it develops a golden crust before flipping. This enhances the overall depth of flavor in the dish. For a smoky twist, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika when sautéing the vegetables; it complements the chicken wonderfully.

Simmering the soup for 20 minutes after combining all the ingredients allows the flavors to meld, but be careful not to overdo it. If you let it simmer too long, you risk the vegetables losing their vibrant color and becoming too soft. I like to check for doneness frequently in the last few minutes, ensuring the spinach remains bright green and wilted rather than overcooked.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup chopped spinach
1 cup cooked quinoa
4 cups chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure you have all ingredients ready before starting to cook for an effortless experience!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden on both sides, about 8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then add the carrots and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot, add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.

Finish the Soup

Add the chopped spinach and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Let the soup cool slightly before serving, and enjoy with fresh parsley on top!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. Also, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available.

Storage and Reheating

Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a little extra chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as noted above.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Superfood Chicken and Vegetable Soup with a side of whole-grain crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only enhances the dish’s presentation but also adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors perfectly. For a bit of richness, you could drizzle a touch of olive oil or add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top before serving.

If you're looking for some spice, a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the soup and cater to those who enjoy a kick. Alternatively, topping the soup with crunchy toasted seeds or nuts could add an interesting textural contrast while boosting its nutritional profile even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Just shred your leftover chicken and add it when you combine the vegetables.

→ Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit the chicken, adding more beans or tofu for protein.

→ How long can I store the soup?

You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Freeze it in portions for easy meals later!