French Chicken And Broccoli Soup(Low-Fat)
A light, flavorful low-fat soup with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a healthy, comforting meal suitable for any time of day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except milk and cornstarch in a pot.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Stir milk and cornstarch together until smooth.
- Add the milk mixture to the simmering soup and cook, stirring, until bubbling and thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while simmering the soup. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth instead. Fresh thyme can also be used in place of dried for a more vibrant taste. You can easily add more vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a touch of creaminess, consider adding a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on top. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch, and it also makes a great starter for a larger meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Chicken And Broccoli Soup(Low-Fat) contains roughly 754 calories, with 18g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure it is partly defrosted before adding it to the pot to ensure even cooking. If you prefer fresh, you'll need to steam it slightly before adding to the soup.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply replace the cornstarch with a gluten-free thickening agent, or use a gluten-free flour blend. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I add more protein to the soup?
Absolutely! You can increase the protein content by adding more diced chicken or turkey, or even include some cooked lentils for a vegetarian source. This addition will also enhance the soup's texture and flavor.
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).