Comforting Chicken Quinoa Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

It’s that time of year when your taste buds are crying out for something warm, hearty, and downright delightful. Enter the Chicken Quinoa Soup a bowl of comfort that wraps around you like your favorite blanket on a chilly night. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a savory broth, mingling with fluffy quinoa and vibrant veggies, all while filling your kitchen with an aroma that could make even your neighbor’s cat peek over the fence. simple lemony chicken soup If you haven’t tried it yet, oh boy, are you in for a treat!

This recipe isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s a nostalgic journey down memory lane. Picture this: a cozy family gathering where laughter echoes and bowls are passed around like hot potatoes. Everyone dives into their soup with enthusiasm, savoring each spoonful as if it were a secret treasure unlocked from Grandma’s vault. delicious garlic butter quinoa Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a snowy evening, Chicken Quinoa Soup is the ultimate companion for any occasion perfect for soothing souls and warming hearts.

Ingredients for Chicken Quinoa Soup

For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust according to your crowd size.
• Quinoa: Use rinsed quinoa to eliminate bitterness; this superfood adds protein and texture.
• Carrots: Freshly chopped carrots add sweetness and color; opt for bright orange ones for maximum appeal.
• Celery: Adds crunch and flavor; choose firm stalks for the best results.
• Onion: A medium diced onion brings depth to the broth; yellow onions are particularly flavorful.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish; use as much as you love because who can resist garlic?
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade or store-bought works wonders!
• Dried Thyme: This herb enhances flavors beautifully; fresh thyme can be used if available.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Quinoa Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping up your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes them easier to eat later on—nobody wants a wrestling match with their food!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vibrant veggies until they soften up—about five minutes should do the trick. Your kitchen will start smelling fantastic at this point!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Chicken

Throw in the minced garlic followed by those little cubes of chicken breast. Cook everything together until the chicken turns white—about seven minutes should suffice.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Quinoa

Now it’s time to elevate this meal! Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth along with rinsed quinoa. Sprinkle in dried thyme for that flavor explosion we’re after. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat—let it simmer for about twenty minutes.

Step 5: Taste Test

After twenty minutes, taste your soup! Feel free to adjust seasoning with salt or pepper based on your preference. Remember, tasting is crucial—it’s how we ensure perfection!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired—perhaps some parsley or cilantro? Transfer to plates while imagining all those happy faces ready to dig in.

And there you have it a bowl of Chicken Quinoa Soup that not only warms the belly but also nourishes the soul! Serve it up alongside rustic bread for dipping or enjoy it solo the choice is yours!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for that golden crust, then sauté the vegetables while the quinoa cooks. This sequence maximizes flavor and ensures everything comes together seamlessly without turning into a chaotic mess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Spice lovers can add cayenne pepper, while those who enjoy a burst of freshness might toss in some lime juice or cilantro at the end.

Storing & Reheating

Store your chicken quinoa soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Sometimes I serve this soup at family gatherings, and I’ll never forget my cousin declaring it “better than grandma’s!” Now that’s a compliment that keeps my cooking ego afloat!

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients in Chicken Quinoa Soup?

Chicken Quinoa Soup features a delightful combination of lean chicken breast, quinoa, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Common choices include carrots, celery, and spinach, which add both flavor and nutrition. Additionally, you will need broth—either chicken or vegetable—and herbs like thyme and parsley for seasoning. This soup is not only hearty but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome meal option. You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences, ensuring that every bowl is unique.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Quinoa Soup?

Preparing Chicken Quinoa Soup typically takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet nutritious meal. The actual cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the quinoa cooks to fluffy perfection. If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut down on preparation time even more.

Can I freeze Chicken Quinoa Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Quinoa Soup! It’s a great way to make a large batch for future meals. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep in mind that quinoa may absorb some liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating.

Is Chicken Quinoa Soup healthy?

Absolutely! Chicken Quinoa Soup is packed with nutrients from its lean protein source (chicken), whole grain (quinoa), and various vegetables. It is low in calories yet high in fiber and vitamins, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, quinoa is gluten-free and provides essential amino acids, while adding vegetables enhances its nutritional profile even further. Enjoying this soup regularly can support overall health and wellbeing.

Conclusion for Chicken Quinoa Soup:

In summary, Chicken Quinoa Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines protein-rich chicken with wholesome quinoa and vibrant vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized according to personal preferences. With its quick cooking time and ability to be frozen for later use, this soup makes an excellent meal option for any day of the week. easy French onion soup Whether enjoyed alone or paired with crusty bread, Chicken Quinoa Soup stands out as a comforting dish that nourishes both body and soul.

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Chicken Quinoa Soup

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Chicken Quinoa Soup is your go-to dish for chilly evenings, offering a delightful blend of tender chicken, fluffy quinoa, and colorful vegetables simmered in a savory broth. This hearty soup not only warms you from the inside out but also nourishes your soul with its comforting flavors. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s easy to make and customizable based on what you have on hand. Enjoy a bowl of this wholesome goodness any time you need a little extra warmth and love.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 1 cup rinsed quinoa
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

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Instructions

1. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in a splash of olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and chicken; cook until chicken is no longer pink (about 7 minutes).
4. Pour in the broth and rinsed quinoa; add dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg