This nourishing and flavorful soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, protein-packed quinoa, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day or simply enjoying a hearty meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Hearty Chicken Quinoa Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly wholesome. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a meal that the entire family will enjoy. Packed with protein from the chicken and quinoa, as well as fiber from the chickpeas and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
Introduction
As the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul. This Hearty Chicken Quinoa Soup is the epitome of cozy, featuring tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables. It’s not only filling but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthy yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re coming in from the cold or simply want a nourishing dish to enjoy, this soup will warm you from the inside out.
The combination of chicken, quinoa, and chickpeas provides a delightful protein boost, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. The aromatic spices and the zing from the lemon juice elevate the flavors, making each spoonful a burst of deliciousness. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring just one pot, which means less cleanup for you!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2-3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning mix
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 cup (180 g) quinoa, rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 medium chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g)
- Juice of half a lemon or lime
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
Step 2:
Stir in the chopped garlic, ginger, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant, ensuring not to let the garlic burn.
Step 3:
Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 4:
Add the rinsed quinoa, drained chickpeas, and the chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This will allow the quinoa to cook through and the chicken to become tender.
Step 5:
Check the doneness of the chicken and quinoa. If the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C), remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the soup. Add the juice of half a lemon or lime, stir in the fresh parsley, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
This Hearty Chicken Quinoa Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple green salad. For a touch of creaminess, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top before serving. A sprinkle of extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
Tips:
- Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors continue to develop. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock. You can add more chickpeas or other plant-based proteins for added nutrition.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking to retain their color and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a spicier soup, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken Quinoa Soup is a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and comfort. It’s an ideal recipe for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy nights in. With its wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. So gather your ingredients, grab a pot, and let the comforting aroma fill your kitchen as you create this delicious soup. Enjoy every spoonful!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just add it in the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
2. Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this soup a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. How can I store the soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
4. Can I substitute the chickpeas?
Yes, you can substitute chickpeas with other beans like white beans or black beans, or even lentils for a different flavor and texture.
5. What can I do if I want a creamier soup?
For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before adding the shredded chicken back in, or stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream just before serving.