Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Wash and chop all vegetables. Dice the onion, celery, carrots, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Trim and chop the green beans and prepare any additional vegetables you'd like to include.
  2. If using raw chicken, trim excess fat and pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, celery, and carrots, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth

  1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Add 1 cup of water if needed to adjust the consistency.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

  1. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Add Additional Vegetables

  1. Add the green beans, corn, and peas to the pot. Stir well to distribute the vegetables evenly.
  2. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
  3. If using leafy greens like spinach or kale, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to preserve their color and nutrients.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

  1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  2. For a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
  2. Serve hot, with optional lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken and Vegetable Soup

  1. Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer, more flavorful soup.
  2. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on what’s in season or available. Squash, sweet potatoes, or even mushrooms can be excellent additions.
  3. Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
  4. Thicker Soup: For a creamier consistency, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back into the pot.

Why This Soup is a Winner

  • Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber-rich vegetables, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
  • Comforting and Versatile: Its warm, savory flavors make it the ultimate comfort food, while its adaptability suits any palate.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

This chicken and vegetable soup is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of comfort, warmth, and nourishment. Whether you’re recovering from illness, enjoying a cozy evening, or simply craving something wholesome, this recipe is a surefire hit. Give it a try and savor the simple joy of homemade soup!