There’s something profoundly comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken vegetable soup. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, a remedy for the soul as much as it is for the body. Growing up, my grandmother would often whip up a batch of her signature chicken soup whenever someone in the family felt under the weather. The aroma of simmering broth, mingling with the savory notes of chicken and vegetables, would fill the kitchen, instantly making us feel better, no matter the ailment.
This recipe I’m about to share captures that same essence of warmth and nourishment. It’s a slow-cooked masterpiece that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and comforting pasta in a broth that’s both soothing and invigorating. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or to share with friends on a relaxed evening, this soup is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together harmoniously.
Ingredients
3-4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 large yellow onion, diced finely
4 stalks celery, diced finely
2 medium carrots, diced finely
2 red bell peppers, chopped
2 large white potatoes, skin removed and diced
1 can diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp. sea salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
8 oz. ditalini pasta
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by placing the chicken breasts, diced onion, celery, carrots, red bell peppers, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chopped parsley, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper into the bowl of a slow cooker.
Add Water: Pour enough water into the slow cooker to cover all the ingredients by about an inch. This should be roughly 8 cups of water, but adjust as needed to ensure everything is submerged.
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete and the chicken is fully cooked (you can check by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or by cutting into a piece to ensure there’s no pink), carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Mash the Vegetables: With a potato masher, gently mash the vegetables in the soup about 3-4 times. This helps to thicken the broth slightly and release more flavor into the soup.
Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is being shredded and the vegetables are being mashed, cook the ditalini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Combine and Serve: Return the shredded chicken and cooked pasta to the slow cooker with the vegetable mixture. Stir everything together gently to ensure the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
Enjoy Your Soup: Ladle the warm and comforting chicken vegetable soup into bowls. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the nourishing flavors!
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of water for a hearty vegetarian soup.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the ditalini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change the flavor profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this chicken vegetable soup recipe isn’t just about ingredients and instructions—it’s about creating a moment of comfort and connection. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood soups or creating new memories with loved ones, this dish brings people together with its wholesome flavors and nourishing warmth. From the first chop of vegetables to the final ladle into bowls, each step is a testament to the care and love put into homemade cooking. So next time you crave something hearty and soul-warming, give this recipe a try. Your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of simmering goodness, and your taste buds will thank you for the comforting delight of each spoonful.
