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 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, diced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I love making Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup during the cooler months when I crave warmth and comfort. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables creates a nourishing meal that is both satisfying and wholesome. This recipe has become a staple in my home, as it is not only healthy but incredibly easy to prepare. With a mix of spices and herbs, every spoonful bursts with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:37:36.502Z

When I first tried making chicken soup from scratch, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding it was. The key is using fresh vegetables and quality chicken, which really enhances the flavor profile. I usually opt for my favorite seasonal veggies, allowing the soup to change with the seasons, keeping it exciting and fresh.

Over the years, I’ve learned to experiment with spices, like a pinch of thyme or rosemary, which adds depth to the broth. Making this soup in a large batch also helps—it freezes beautifully, so I can enjoy it even on the busiest days!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean chicken
A cozy and comforting meal that's easy to prepare
Low in calories but rich in flavor and satisfaction

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

When making Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup, selecting the right chicken is crucial for achieving depth of flavor. I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option. If you're pressed for time, rotisserie chicken works well too; just be sure to remove the skin and shred it before adding it to the soup. This provides a wonderful base of flavor without added fat.

Another option is to poach your own chicken in the broth before shredding it. This infuses the chicken with the spices and vegetable flavors, ensuring a delicious outcome. Simply add uncooked chicken to the pot along with the broth at the beginning and simmer until fully cooked, which takes about 15-20 minutes. This method allows for customization with various herbs and spices.

Vegetable Variations

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility with vegetables. While the recipe calls for zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers, feel free to incorporate seasonal produce like green beans, peas, or even kale. Each addition can enhance the nutrient profile and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times—harder vegetables like carrots may need a few extra minutes, while quicker-cooking greens should be added later on to maintain their vibrant color and nutrition.

If you’re concerned about food waste, using frozen vegetables is a great alternative. They are often flash-frozen at peak freshness, retaining nutrients and flavor. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. This adaptation makes it easy to enjoy Healthy Chicken Vegetable Soup any time of year, regardless of vegetable availability.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This soup stores well, making it an ideal meal prep option. After it cools, transfer the soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags, expelling as much air as possible, and lay them flat in the freezer. They can last up to 3 months this way. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

For serving, consider pairing the soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce before serving can elevate the flavors even further. This soup is not only a comforting dish but also a blank canvas for your favorite toppings—croutons, grated cheese, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess make wonderful additions.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious and healthy soup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

With all the ingredients ready, you're halfway to enjoying a delightful bowl of soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your chicken vegetable soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the carrots, celery, and red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, zucchini, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Serve

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your heartwarming bowl of soup!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish.

Ingredient Highlights

The broth forms the heart of your soup, providing a flavorful base that ties everything together. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels, and consider using homemade broth for a more robust taste. Homemade broth can be made from leftover chicken bones and vegetables, simmered for several hours to extract deep flavors—this adds a wholesome element that store-bought versions often lack.

Using fresh herbs like oregano and thyme not only enhances flavor but also adds aromatic qualities to the soup. These herbs can be adjusted based on your preference; for a bolder flavor, even fresh herbs can be tossed in during cooking. Remember to add dried herbs earlier in the cooking process, while fresh herbs are best added right before serving to retain their bright flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic at the beginning is crucial for building a flavorful foundation. Look for the onions to become translucent and aromatic, which signals that they are ready for the next ingredients. Be cautious not to let them brown too much, as this can create bitterness instead of adding sweetness and depth to your dish.

Simmering is another key technique in this recipe. Once you bring the soup to a boil, reducing the heat allows the flavors to meld without boiling over. A gentle simmer should create small bubbles around the edge of the pot, ensuring even cooking of all ingredients. Stir occasionally to prevent vegetables from sticking to the bottom, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your soup is too thick after cooking, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding more chicken broth or water. Gradually mixing in additional liquid will help achieve your desired texture without compromising the flavor. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, concentrating the flavors.

On the other hand, if you accidentally over-seasoned your soup, a common fix is to add a sweet component, such as a bit of sugar or diced carrots, which will balance out the saltiness. Alternatively, incorporating a few more vegetables can dilute the saltiness while enhancing nutrition—just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with chickpeas and the chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a delicious vegetarian version.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey, tofu, or any cooked protein of your choice.