Easy Healthy Chicken Broccoli Soup

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Warm up with a bowl of this Easy Healthy Chicken Broccoli Soup. Packed with nutritious vegetables, tender chicken, and a savory broth, this soup is both hearty and healthy. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day, this recipe is simple to make and full of delicious flavors that will satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients

  • Aromatics and Vegetables:
    • 1 large onion, finely chopped
    • 2 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
    • 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
    • 4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • Seasoning:
    • 1 bay leaf
    • 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs
    • 1 tsp chili flakes/red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Lemon juice to taste
  • Broccoli:
    • 5 cups broccoli, stems removed and finely chopped
  • Liquid:
    • 6 cups chicken stock/broth (home-made or good quality store-bought)
    • 2 cups milk
  • Thickener:
    • 2 tbsp cornflour/cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • Chicken:
    • 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them until tender, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
    • Add the crushed garlic, bay leaf, dried mixed herbs, and chili flakes (if using). Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
  2. Add Broccoli and Stock:
    • Add the finely chopped broccoli to the pot, then pour in the chicken stock/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
  3. Blend the Soup (Optional):
    • For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup to your desired consistency.
    • As an alternative, you can ladle a portion of the soup into a blender, puree it until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot.
  4. Add Milk and Thicken:
    • Stir in the milk and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
    • Mix the cornflour/cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then gradually stir it into the soup. Cook, stirring constantly, until the soup thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add Chicken and Season:
    • Add the shredded chicken to the soup and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Just before serving, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  6. Serve:
    • Spoon the soup into bowls and serve it steaming hot.
    • Enjoy this comforting and healthy chicken broccoli soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

This Easy Healthy Chicken Broccoli Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful broth makes for a satisfying soup that’s both light and hearty. Enjoy this wholesome dish with your loved ones and savor the comforting flavors in every spoonful.

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