Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that won't derail your weight loss goals? Look no further! This Weight Watchers-friendly zero-point chicken vegetable soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your healthy eating plan. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and easily customizable to your liking. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying and guilt-free bowl of goodness! This homemade recipe is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (zero points on most plans)
- 1 cup chopped chicken breast (cooked and shredded, zero points on many plans)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped green beans or spinach (check your plan for points)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little cooking spray until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained), shredded chicken, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer to perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. If adding green beans or spinach, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
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Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy your delicious and healthy zero-point meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Zero Point Soup:
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Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped finely. Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor that’s hard to replicate with dried herbs.
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Bone-in chicken for extra flavor: For a richer broth, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of pre-cooked chicken breast. Simmer the chicken with the vegetables, removing the meat once cooked and shredding it before adding it back to the soup.
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Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other zero-point vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Experiment to find your favorite combinations!
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Make it a meal prep staple: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and portion size) Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams Fat: Approximately 2-5 grams Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams
Disclaimer: Point values may vary depending on your specific Weight Watchers plan. Always check your personal plan for the most accurate point count. This recipe is designed as a guideline and can be adapted to fit individual dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy the delicious and healthy journey!