Chicken Soup...Plus
A hearty chicken soup packed with fresh vegetables and savory seasonings, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken parts in a large kettle.
- Fill the kettle nearly full with water.
- Add a dash of salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove chicken from broth to cool and skim fat from the broth.
- Measure broth and pour into a 10-quart pot; add enough water to make a total of 18 cups.
- Add seasonings, sliced onions, celery, carrots, and bay leaves; bring to a boil.
- Remove skin and bones from the cooked chicken and cut into small chunks.
- Add frozen corn, lima beans, okra, and chicken to the pot.
- Bring to a boil again, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 90 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding potatoes or beans as a substitute for some of the vegetables. If you're low on time, use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken parts. Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an extra flavor boost. For a creamier texture, you can stir in a bit of cream or milk before serving. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Chicken With Cream Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch. Consider pairing it with American recipes like cornbread for a delightful contrast. Enjoy it on a chilly day or as a delicious lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, ensure the soup cools completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Soup...Plus contains roughly 847 calories, with 31g protein, 217g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (421% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (320% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1662mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add vegetables like green beans, peas, or bell peppers based on your preference or what you have on hand. Just ensure to adjust cooking times for firmer vegetables accordingly.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the frozen veggies in the last hour.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. However, always check the labels of your frozen vegetables and any additional ingredients you might add to ensure they don't contain gluten. Enjoy this comforting dish without worries!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).