Chicken and Vegetable Soup – A Healthy Meal for Kids
Chicken and Vegetable Soup:
For a warm, healthy, and easy meal that your child will enjoy, try this chicken and vegetable soup recipe. As a parent, it is important to make sure your child gets the right nutrients. This comfort food provides just that.
This soup is full of vitamins from fresh vegetables and good protein from shredded chicken. Tasty and easy to digest, the food appeals to many.
You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chicken breast, or even rotisserie chicken for this recipe. Simple and nutritious. Plus, you can prepare this hassle-free dish in just 30 minutes on busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious homemade chicken and vegetable soup that will keep your little one happy and full!
Table of Contents
Why This Chicken and Vegetable Soup is Perfect for Kids
Plenty of reasons exist why this chicken and vegetable soup recipe is an excellent choice for children:
- Mild and Easy to Digest – The ingredients are soft and gentle on tiny stomachs.
- Nutrient-Packed – Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins, while shredded chicken offers high-quality protein for growth.
- Customizable – You can use store-bought chicken broth or make your own. You can also change the veggies, like using green beans for variety.
- Quick and Simple – Using rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken speeds up the process.
- Perfect Texture – The soup can be blended or mashed to suit your child’s preference.
Ingredients
To make this chicken and vegetable soup, you will need:
Protein:
- 1 small chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- OR ½ cup rotisserie chicken, shredded
Vegetables:
- ½ zucchini, chopped
- ½ carrot, chopped
- ¼ cup green beans, chopped
- 1 tbsp onion, celery, and carrot mix (optional for extra flavor)
Liquids:
- ½ cup store-bought chicken broth (or homemade)
- 1 tsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping the zucchini, green beans, and carrot into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cook and shred the chicken beforehand. Using rotisserie chicken? Simply remove the skin and shred the meat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot mix if using, and sauté until softened. This step enhances the flavor of the soup and makes it more aromatic.
3. Add the Liquid and Vegetables
Pour in store-bought chicken broth (or water if preferred) and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Add the zucchini, green beans, and carrot, allowing them to simmer until tender.
4. Incorporate the Chicken
When the vegetables are soft, add the shredded chicken (or rotisserie chicken). Let it cook for a few minutes to soak up the flavors.
5. Blend or Mash (Optional)
For younger children or babies, you can blend the soup to create a smooth consistency. Otherwise, leave it chunky for older kids.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the soup to cool slightly before serving. You can pair it with soft bread or rice for a heartier meal.
Cooking Time Breakdown
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Benefits of This Soup
Each ingredient in this chicken and vegetable soup offers key nutritional benefits:
- Chicken (Protein & Iron): Helps with muscle growth and development.
- Carrots (Vitamin A): Supports eye health and immune function.
- Zucchini (Fiber & Antioxidants): Aids digestion and boosts overall health.
- Green Beans (Vitamin C & K): Strengthens bones and improves immunity.
- Olive Oil (Healthy Fats): Supports brain development and heart health.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken and Vegetable Soup
- Use Homemade Broth – If time allows, making your own broth will add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Go for a Dutch Oven – Cooking this soup in a Dutch oven helps retain heat and enhances the flavors.
- Make it a One-Pot Meal – Add rice or pasta directly into the soup for a more filling meal.
- Store & Reheat Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later – This soup freezes well. Simply portion it out and store in freezer-safe containers.
Common Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just remove the skin and shred the meat before adding it to the soup.
Is this soup suitable for babies?
Absolutely! Just blend it into a smooth purée to make it easier for babies to eat.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker, set on low for 4-6 hours, then mash or blend as needed.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize the recipe with peas, potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
Final Thoughts
This chicken and vegetable soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food for kids. You can easily make it, pack it with essential nutrients, and customize it to your child’s taste.
You can use rotisserie chicken, boneless skinless chicken thighs, or store-bought chicken broth. This recipe is flexible and great for busy parents. Plus, with a cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and wholesome meal that will become a family favorite.
Keep this recipe card for later. Enjoy making this healthy chicken and vegetable soup for your child!
