Are you craving a warm, comforting, and healthy meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Chicken Quinoa Soup recipe is your answer. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant vegetables, it's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. This homemade cooking masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite, and it's one of the best recipes for both its taste and nutritional value. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Brown the chicken: Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
-
Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken broth, quinoa, diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through and the chicken is tender.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker soup: Mash some of the cooked quinoa against the side of the pot before serving to thicken the broth slightly.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving for extra creaminess.
- Meal prep friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The exact nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients you use. However, a typical serving will contain approximately:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This delicious and easy Chicken Quinoa Soup is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s a simple recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!