Chicken breast soup

Chicken soup with vegetables - a warm and comforting treat

Chicken soup is one of those dishes that reminds us of childhood, family meals, and moments spent with loved ones. This simple and delicious recipe for chicken breast soup is perfect for chilly days or any time you need comfort. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this soup rich in flavors and nutrients!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 2 chicken breasts (about 500-600 g)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 onion
- 2-3 green onions
- 2 bell peppers (1 green and 1 red)
- 1 parsnip
- 2 eggs
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes
- 1.5 liters of borscht
- a few celery stalks
- a few sprigs of lovage
- salt to taste

Preparation of the soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities. Then, debone the breast and cut it into equal-sized cubes – this will help the soup cook evenly.

2. Initial boiling of the chicken: Place the chicken cubes in a large pot, cover them with water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once the water starts boiling, foam will appear on the surface. It is important to skim the soup, meaning to remove the foam that forms, to achieve a clear broth.

3. Draining and rinsing the meat: After a few boils, discard the water and rinse the chicken cubes under cold water to remove impurities. This is a crucial step to obtain a less greasy and cleaner soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: Put the chicken back in the pot, this time adding warm water (about 2 liters). Add the finely chopped vegetables – carrots, onion, bell peppers, and parsnip. You can use a sharp knife to get precise cuts. Don’t forget to add a little salt at this step to enhance the flavors.

5. Boiling the soup: Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken and vegetables become tender. It’s a wonderful moment to enjoy the aroma spreading throughout the kitchen!

6. Adding the tomatoes and borscht: After the vegetables are cooked, add the grated tomatoes to give a fresh note to the soup. Also, add the borscht, which will add a tangy taste typical of soups. Let the soup simmer for another 15-20 minutes.

7. Finishing the soup: In the last minutes of cooking, beat the eggs in a bowl and gradually add them to the soup, stirring continuously to achieve a slightly creamy texture. This step is optional but adds a richness to the soup. Also, add finely chopped greens, such as celery and lovage, for an extra flavor.

8. Serving the soup: Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for 10 minutes. This will help the flavors blend perfectly. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread, perhaps with a splash of sour cream if you wish.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the chicken breast: Opt for fresh, skinless chicken breast for a lighter soup. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also use chicken thighs.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with the vegetables you have on hand. Add zucchini, potatoes, or even peas to diversify the recipe. Chicken soup is extremely versatile!
- Borscht: If you don’t have borscht on hand, you can use lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar acidity.
- Variations: Add spices like black pepper, paprika, or even garlic for a more complex flavor. The soup can be adapted to your preferences!

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken breast is low in fat, and the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants. This recipe is ideal for a healthy meal and is also easy to digest.

Frequently asked questions:

- How can I keep the soup fresh? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can freeze the soup for later consumption.
- Can I use other types of meat? Certainly! You can use pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
- Is this a good recipe for meal prep? Absolutely! Chicken soup reheats very well, making it perfect for meals during the week.

I hope this chicken breast soup recipe inspires you to prepare a delicious and comforting dish! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: -2 chicken breasts -2 carrots -1 dried onion + 2-3 green onions -2 bell peppers (one green and one red) -1 parsnip root -2 eggs -4-5 tomatoes -1.5 L borscht -a few celery stalks, a few lovage sprigs -salt