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Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup

This comforting chicken vegetable soup is a slow-simmered dish that combines shredded cooked chicken with colorful vegetables in a fragrant broth. The soup has a rich, savory flavor with a hearty texture, making it perfect for cozy days. Its versatility allows for easy customization with ingredients on hand.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken preferably from roasted or boiled chicken
  • 3 large carrots sliced thick
  • 2 stalks celery chopped into pieces
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into roughly uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and vibrant presentation.
  2. Heat the large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot, cooking for another 8 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their sweet aroma, stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors and tenderize the vegetables.
  5. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of hot sauce or vinegar for zing. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  6. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or potatoes for extra heartiness. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.