Introduction
Hearty Italian Chicken Veggie Soup is the ultimate bowl of comfort that warms you from the inside out. Imagine tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmering in a rich tomato broth—this dish embodies the soul-soothing magic of fall and winter cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe is a champion among Winter Soup Recipes and delivers nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re craving a light yet filling meal or prepping freezer-friendly dinners, this soup checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into your family’s diet!
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and immune-boosting herbs, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious. Here’s a quick snapshot of its health perks per serving (approx. 1.5 cups):
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 6g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
Customize this Hearty Italian Chicken Veggie Soup to suit dietary needs or pantry shortages. Here’s your flexible blueprint:
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | Protein base | Chicken breasts, turkey, or white beans (vegan) |
| Carrots, celery, zucchini | Veggie foundation | Sweet potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers |
| Diced tomatoes | Acidity & depth | Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce |
| Chicken broth | Liquid base | Vegetable broth or bone broth |
| Italian seasoning | Flavor enhancer | Fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary |
Equipment Needed
– Large Dutch oven or soup pot
– Wooden spoon
– Chef’s knife & cutting board
– Measuring cups/spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in your pot. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Brown the Chicken: Push veggies aside, add 1 lb diced chicken thighs, and sear until golden—this builds flavor for your Hearty Italian Chicken Veggie Soup.
3. Simmer the Base: Stir in 4 cups chicken broth, 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
4. Add Veggies: Toss in 1 chopped zucchini and 1 cup green beans. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Finish & Serve: Stir in 1 cup cooked pasta (optional) and 2 cups fresh spinach. Season with salt/pepper. This step ensures your Winter Soup Recipes repertoire shines with wholesome goodness!
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Too thin? Mash a few potatoes or add tomato paste.
– Bland broth? Amplify with a Parmesan rind or splash of balsamic vinegar.
– Short on time? Use rotisserie chicken and add it at the end.
– Crockpot hack: Combine all ingredients (except spinach/pasta) and cook on LOW for 6 hours.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Fridge: Store in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
– Freezer: Portion into jars (leave headspace) and freeze for 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
– Meal prep: Double the batch! Freeze half for effortless Healthy Dinner Recipes later.
Conclusion
This Hearty Italian Chicken Veggie Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. With its robust flavors and nutrient-dense profile, it’s a superstar among Winter Soup Recipes, perfect for chilly nights or lunchbox thermoses. I love how adaptable it is; swap veggies, adjust spices, or keep it low-carb by skipping pasta. Serve it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan, and watch it become an instant family favorite.
Craving more cozy inspiration? Try my smoked sausage kale soup for another hearty twist on Best Soup Recipes Ever!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Absolutely! Swap chicken for chickpeas and use veggie broth.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
A: Cook it separately and add it to individual bowls before serving.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, but omit pasta/spinach before freezing. Add them when reheating.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Yes—use 1/3 the amount (e.g., 1 tsp dried basil vs. 1 tbsp fresh).
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