Chicken soup with vegetables

Chicken Vegetable Soup: A Warm Embrace in Every Spoonful

When it comes to culinary comfort, a chicken vegetable soup is definitely a classic that revives pleasant memories and provides a sense of well-being. This recipe is not only delicious but also extremely healthy, having few calories and being rich in nutrients. Think of it as a summer poem, where each ingredient contributes its share of flavor and health.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300-400 g)
- 2 medium-sized onions
- 3 carrots
- 1 small celery
- 2 potatoes
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow are best for color)
- 1 can (400 g) of tomatoes in juice
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
- Water (approximately 3 liters)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Then, cut it into evenly sized cubes – this will ensure even cooking. If desired, you can also use other parts of the chicken, such as thighs for added flavor.

2. Boiling the chicken: Place the chicken cubes in a large pot and add approximately 3 liters of water. Set the pot over medium heat and wait until the water starts to boil. It is important to skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a spatula or spoon. This step will help achieve a clear and delicious soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the chicken is boiling, peel the onion and cut it into quarters. The carrots and celery should be peeled and grated. The potatoes and bell peppers are peeled, washed, and cut into cubes. The more uniform the cuts, the more evenly the vegetables will cook.

4. Adding the vegetables to the soup: Once the chicken has boiled for about 15-20 minutes, add the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell peppers) to the pot. Let them boil together with the chicken for 30 minutes. This time will allow the vegetables to release their flavors and blend with the chicken's taste.

5. Seasoning the soup: After the vegetables are cooked, add salt and pepper to taste. Open the can of tomatoes in juice and add them to the pot, allowing the soup to boil for another 10 minutes. The tomatoes will provide a pleasant acidity and vibrant color to the dish.

6. Finalizing the soup: When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and finely chop the fresh parsley. Add it to the soup and stir gently. The parsley will not only bring a note of freshness but will also enrich the final aroma of the dish.

7. Serving: The chicken vegetable soup is served hot, ideal on a chilly day or when you need an energy boost. You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread for added flavor.

Serving suggestions: Add some toasted bread croutons on top for a delicious contrast of textures or sprinkle a little grated Parmesan for an intensified taste and aroma.

Tips and variations: If you want a spicier soup, you can add a bit of hot pepper. Also, for an extra nutrient boost, you can include vegetables like zucchini or green beans. Replace the chicken breast with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional information: Each serving of chicken vegetable soup contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a healthy and nourishing option. It is rich in protein due to the chicken and packed with vitamins from the vegetables, making this soup a fantastic choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the soup for even cooking.
- How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it is recommended to do so without the vegetables, as they may become mushy upon thawing.
- What other recipes can I try? You can experiment with a variety of soups, such as vegetable soup, lentil soup, or even a pumpkin cream soup, each having its own charm.

This chicken vegetable soup will surely become a staple recipe in your kitchen. It is simple, versatile, and most importantly, full of love! Savor every spoonful and enjoy the health and comfort it brings.

 Ingredients: 1 boneless chicken breast, 2 medium-sized onions, 3 carrots, 1 small celery, 2 potatoes, 2 bell peppers, 1 can (400 g) of tomatoes in juice, 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley, salt, ground pepper

 Tags:  chicken breast onion carrots celery pepper potatoes tomatoes