Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest

Name: Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped; 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Kitchen

I love preparing this Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest on chilly evenings; it’s both comforting and nutritious. The vibrant colors of fresh vegetables combined with tender chicken create a visually appealing dish that warms the soul. As the ingredients simmer together, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist peeking at the pot! Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this soup not only satisfies hunger but also showcases the bounty of seasonal vegetables, allowing everyone to enjoy a healthy option packed with flavor.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:30:28.640Z

After experimenting in the kitchen with various chicken soup recipes, I stumbled upon the perfect combination of flavors in this Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest. What makes this soup stand out is the variety of veggies I use, which not only enhances the taste but also provides a range of nutrients. I find that incorporating seasonal vegetables not only makes the soup fresher but also more satisfying.

One tip I can share is to sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pot. This step helps to intensify their flavors and gives the soup a rich depth. The result is a hearty bowl of goodness that not only warms you up but also keeps your body nourished!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A medley of fresh vegetables loaded with vitamins.
Tender chicken pieces that are juicy and flavorful.
Hearty and filling, perfect for any meal of the day.

      

Building Layers of Flavor

The initial step of sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery is crucial for developing a rich flavor base. This technique, known as 'mirepoix', adds depth to your soup and allows the natural sweetness of the vegetables to emerge. Cook them until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This will enhance the overall taste of your Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest and ensure that each spoonful is infused with heartiness and warmth.

Don’t rush the cooking of the chicken! After adding the diced chicken breast and garlic, allow it to cook until it's no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential not only for food safety but also for allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sautéed vegetables. If the chicken is overcooked, it may become tough. Make sure to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, to achieve a tender result.

Perfecting the Texture

When you stir in the bell pepper and broth, the visual transformation is striking. The vibrant colors combine beautifully and signal the soup is nearing completion. Bringing this mixture to a boil allows the flavors to meld together quickly. Be attentive during this step; once boiling, adjust the heat to a gentle simmer. This is crucial for tenderizing the chicken and vegetables without losing their integrity—the vegetables should remain slightly firm, adding a pleasant contrast to the tender chicken.

Finally, as you add the chopped greens and lemon juice, take a moment to appreciate the bright, fresh aroma that fills your kitchen. This addition not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds a refreshing brightness that balances the savory elements of the soup. If using kale, allow an extra minute for wilting compared to spinach. Keep the heat low to maintain the soup’s heat without overcooking the greens, ideally around medium-low.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add Chicken and Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and diced chicken breast. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the chopped bell pepper, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish with Greens and Lemon

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and the lemon juice. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.

Serve hot and enjoy the comfort of a home-cooked meal.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables or add noodles for an extra hearty meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Vegetable Chicken Soup Harvest can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic meal prep option. If you're planning to make it ahead of time, consider cooking the chicken and vegetables separately and combining them when you are ready to serve. This helps to retain the vegetables' texture and prevents them from becoming overly mushy. You can also store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

When reheating frozen soup, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to prevent uneven heating. Once thawed, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it becomes too thick. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to revive without overcooking the ingredients. Don't forget to stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly!

Variations and Customization

Feel free to modify the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have available. Zucchini, green beans, or even peas work wonderfully in this soup. You can also substitute the chicken breast with shredded rotisserie chicken, which will save you time and infuse even more flavor. Just add it towards the end of the cooking process to keep it moist and tender.

For a heartier version, consider adding whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. If you choose this option, add the grains early in the cooking process with the chicken broth, allowing ample time for them to cook through. This not only adds nutrition but also makes the soup even more filling, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but they may alter the texture slightly.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just reheat when ready to serve.