This Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is the kind of meal that feels steady, nourishing, and deeply comforting. It is warm without being heavy, simple without being bland, and familiar in the best possible way. Every time I make it, it feels like taking care of the people at my table in the most natural way.
Chicken vegetable soup has always been a staple in our home, especially on days when something warm and grounding feels necessary. It is the recipe I turn to when the weather cools, when schedules feel full, or when someone needs a little extra comfort. There is something reassuring about a pot of soup simmering quietly on the stove.
What I love most about this recipe is its balance. The chicken adds heartiness, the vegetables bring freshness and texture, and the broth ties everything together gently. It feels nourishing without being complicated or overwhelming.
Over the years, this soup has become one of those dependable recipes I return to again and again. It works for busy weeknights, slow weekends, and everything in between. In our kitchen, chicken vegetable soup represents care, simplicity, and food that always feels right.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken vegetable soup is warm, flavorful, and satisfying without feeling heavy. The vegetables soften beautifully while still holding their shape, and the chicken stays tender and comforting. Every spoonful feels balanced and familiar.
Another reason this recipe stands out is how approachable it is. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are simple and forgiving. It is the kind of soup that does not demand precision to turn out well.
This recipe is also versatile and family-friendly. You can adjust the vegetables based on what you have, and it reheats beautifully. Whether served as a main dish or alongside bread, this Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe fits naturally into everyday meals.
Serves: 4–6 people
This recipe comfortably serves four to six people, depending on portion size. It works well as a complete meal or paired with simple sides. Leftovers are just as enjoyable the next day, making it great for meal planning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together into a comforting and flavorful soup. Each ingredient plays a clear role in building body and balance.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup chopped potatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Olive oil forms the base and helps soften the vegetables gently. Onion, carrot, and celery create the classic soup foundation and add natural sweetness.
Garlic adds depth without overpowering the broth. Chicken broth ties everything together and creates a warm, savory base.
Cooked chicken adds heartiness and protein. Potatoes give the soup body, while green beans add color and texture.
Salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley keep the seasoning simple and familiar.
Pro Tips
Cut the vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Cook the onion, carrot, and celery slowly to build flavor gently.
Use fully cooked chicken to keep the soup tender and avoid overcooking.
Simmer gently rather than boiling to keep the broth clear and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end of cooking.
Let the soup rest briefly before serving so flavors can settle.
Tools You’ll Need
This recipe uses basic kitchen tools and one large pot.
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
A heavy-bottomed pot helps prevent scorching and allows the soup to simmer evenly.
Substitutions and Variations
Chicken thighs can replace chicken breast for a richer flavor.
Frozen vegetables can be used if fresh are not available. Add them toward the end of cooking.
Zucchini or corn can be added for seasonal variation.
Fresh herbs can replace dried herbs if available. Add them near the end.
For extra heartiness, add cooked rice or pasta just before serving.
Make Ahead Tips
Chicken vegetable soup is an excellent recipe to make ahead, and it often tastes even better the next day. Allowing the soup to rest gives the flavors time to blend and settle in a gentle, comforting way.
You can prepare the soup completely up to three days in advance. Once cooked, let it cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating.
If you plan to make it further ahead, consider cooking the soup without potatoes or pasta. Add those fresh when reheating to maintain their texture.
The vegetables can also be chopped a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This makes the cooking process quicker and more relaxed.
When reheating, warm the soup slowly over medium-low heat. Stir gently to keep the vegetables intact and the broth clear.
Chicken vegetable soup is also a great option for batch cooking. It scales easily without losing its balanced flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Place a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm gently.
The oil should shimmer slightly but not smoke. This creates a smooth base for cooking the vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir to coat them evenly with oil.
Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
This slow cooking step helps build flavor without browning the vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir continuously for about 30 seconds.
The garlic should become fragrant but not browned. This keeps the flavor mild and balanced.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and stir to combine.
Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Avoid a rolling boil to keep the broth clear.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables and Seasoning
Add the chopped potatoes, green beans, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley.
Stir gently to distribute everything evenly throughout the broth.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.
Step 6: Add the Chicken
Add the cooked chicken to the pot and stir gently.
Let the soup simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes so the chicken warms through and flavors blend.
Avoid overcooking at this stage to keep the chicken tender.
Step 7: Final Taste Check
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper gradually.
Once the flavors feel balanced, remove the pot from the heat.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Let the soup rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
This short rest helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chicken vegetable soup hot as a comforting main dish.
- Pair it with crusty bread or rolls for dipping into the broth.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra freshness.
- Enjoy with crackers or toast for a simple, familiar pairing.
- This soup also works well as a light dinner or a nourishing lunch option.
Leftovers and Storage
Chicken vegetable soup stores very well and often tastes even better after a day in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to blend, creating a deeper and more comforting broth.
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.
When reheating, warm the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stove. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to keep the vegetables intact.
If the soup thickens during storage, add a small splash of broth or water while reheating. Stir gently until the desired consistency is reached.
Chicken vegetable soup also freezes well. Freeze in airtight containers for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition and Benefits
Chicken vegetable soup provides a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and warm broth. It feels nourishing without being heavy or overly rich.
Chicken adds protein, which supports fullness and steady energy. It helps make the soup satisfying enough to serve as a full meal.
Vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, and green beans contribute fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness. They add texture and color while supporting everyday nourishment.
The broth helps keep the soup hydrating and easy to digest. It also brings all the ingredients together gently.
Using simple ingredients keeps this soup approachable and adaptable. It fits easily into a balanced, home-style eating routine.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, raw chicken can be used. Add it with the broth and simmer until fully cooked before adding other vegetables that cook quickly.
Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker. Add all ingredients except cooked chicken and cook on low for several hours.
Add cooked chicken during the final 30 minutes so it stays tender.
Why is my soup cloudy?
Cloudiness can happen if the soup is boiled too hard. Gentle simmering keeps the broth clearer.
Stirring gently and avoiding rapid boiling helps maintain clarity.
Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, pasta or rice can be added for extra heartiness. Cook them separately and add just before serving.
This prevents them from absorbing too much broth during storage.
Can I change the vegetables?
Absolutely. This soup is very flexible and works with many vegetables.
Zucchini, corn, peas, or spinach can be added depending on preference and season.
How can I add more flavor?
A bay leaf added during simmering can deepen flavor. Remove it before serving.
Fresh herbs added at the end also brighten the soup.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep. Portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners.
It reheats gently and keeps its texture well over several days.
A Simple Soup That Always Feels Comforting
This Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe is the kind of dish that quietly supports everyday life. It is warm, nourishing, and familiar without asking for much effort.
With tender chicken, soft vegetables, and a gentle broth, it offers comfort that feels steady and reliable.
Whether served on a busy weeknight or enjoyed slowly as leftovers, this soup remains a dependable recipe that always feels like care in a bowl.