Description
A hearty and healthy Chicken Quinoa Soup with Vegetables combining tender chicken, nutrient-rich quinoa, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting meal any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, oregano, and paprika, mixing well to combine.
- Cook Quinoa and Broth: Add the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer Quinoa: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until the quinoa becomes tender and cooked through.
- Add Chicken and Zucchini: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and diced zucchini. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes to heat through and soften the zucchini.
- Incorporate Greens: Add the chopped spinach or kale and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted and tender.
- Finish with Lemon: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Notes
- This soup is excellent for meal prep and tends to thicken slightly when stored.
- You can substitute turkey for chicken if desired.
- Feel free to add peas or green beans for additional vegetables.
