On a chilly evening, there’s a simple joy in transforming fresh ingredients into a heartwarming dish. My go-to recipe for Chicken Quinoa Soup not only warms the body but nourishes the soul. This comforting bowl is a delightful blend of tender chicken, wholesome quinoa, and vibrant vegetables, creating the perfect harmony between health and flavor. One of the best parts? It’s an absolute breeze to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, this recipe is so versatile that you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or even make it vegetarian-friendly! Curious to uncover how to create this cozy delight in your own kitchen?
Why is Chicken Quinoa Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting flavors await you with each spoonful of this delicious Chicken Quinoa Soup. Nourishing ingredients like quinoa and veggies make it a wholesome choice for any meal. Flexible options mean you can customize it to your liking—whether swapping chicken for tofu or adding in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Quick and easy to prepare, this soup is perfect for health-conscious cooks and busy weeknights. Want to elevate your comfort food game? Pair it with some warm, hearty bread or a refreshing salad for a complete meal that your family will love!
Chicken Quinoa Soup Ingredients
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For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds flavor and is essential for sautéing the vegetables.
• Diced Yellow Onion – Provides a flavorful base; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Diced Celery – Adds crunch and depth to the soup.
• Diced Carrots – Sweetness and color; can be replaced with parsnips or bell peppers.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; garlic powder works as an alternative.
• Tomato Paste – Provides richness and umami; crushed tomatoes can be used for a different texture. -
For the Seasonings
• Italian Seasoning, Oregano, Basil, Thyme – Create flavor complexity; using fresh herbs brightens the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Offers optional spice; fresh chili peppers can replace them or omit for mildness.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste. -
For the Protein and More
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; substitute with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian Chicken Quinoa Soup.
• Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes – Contributes sweetness and smokiness; regular diced tomatoes can also be used.
• Quinoa – Adds heartiness and nutrition; you can opt for rice if preferred.
• Bay Leaves – Provides aromatic flavor; remove them before serving.
• Chicken Stock – Base liquid; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Coarsely Chopped Baby Spinach (optional) – Adds nutrients; swap for kale or Swiss chard if desired.
Now that you have all the Chicken Quinoa Soup ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Embrace the warmth and comfort this dish brings with each delicious bowl.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Quinoa Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 diced yellow onion, 2 diced celery stalks, and 2 diced carrots. Stir occasionally and cook for 7-9 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, creating a fragrant base for your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon each of Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and thyme. Let the mixture cook for an additional 1-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and fill the kitchen with a delicious aroma. This step enhances the Chicken Quinoa Soup’s depth of flavor.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker. Use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pot, ensuring you get every savory bit. This will serve as the flavorful foundation for your Chicken Quinoa Soup as you move on to the next steps.
Step 4: Prepare Chicken
Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken directly into the slow cooker, ensuring that it mixes evenly with the sautéed vegetables. At this point, you’re creating a hearty and nourishing base for your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add 1 can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 1 cup of quinoa, 2 bay leaves, and 4 cups of chicken stock to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the quinoa and chicken are well-distributed. This step is crucial for a rich, flavorful Chicken Quinoa Soup.
Step 6: Cook Soup
Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 3-5 hours. During cooking, the quinoa will pop, and the chicken will become tender and easy to shred. Keep an eye on the time, as this step promises a warm, comforting Chicken Quinoa Soup ideal for chilly evenings.
Step 7: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken and return it back into the soup. This adds texture and enhances the overall heartiness of your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
Step 8: Add Greens
If desired, stir in 2 cups of coarsely chopped baby spinach, allowing it to wilt into the warm soup. This quick step boosts the nutritional value and adds a lovely pop of color, making your Chicken Quinoa Soup even more inviting.
Step 9: Season & Serve
Finally, taste your Chicken Quinoa Soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs or cheese if you wish. This step is where all your efforts come together, creating a nourishing meal for your family.
Expert Tips for Chicken Quinoa Soup
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Rinse Quinoa First: Rinse quinoa under cold water before adding it to the soup. This removes its bitter coating and enhances the flavor of your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
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Watch the Cooking Time: If you opt for low heat, remember that quinoa may change texture. To avoid a mushy consistency, keep an eye on the cooking time and liquid levels.
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Adjust for Storage: This soup thickens as it sits. If you’re storing leftovers, add extra broth when reheating to maintain a soupy texture for your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
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Freezing Tips: When freezing, be aware that quinoa absorbs liquid. Upon reheating, you might need to add additional broth to restore its lovely consistency.
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Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. This flexibility allows you to make the Chicken Quinoa Soup your own!
Storage Tips for Chicken Quinoa Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Quinoa Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful for easy reheating.
Freezer: You can freeze Chicken Quinoa Soup for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and remember, quinoa will absorb liquid during freezing.
Reheating: When reheating, add additional broth or water to restore the soup’s original consistency, as it may thicken as it sits.
Meal Prep: This soup is perfect for meal prep; divide it into individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What to Serve with Chicken Quinoa Soup
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful pairings that elevate your Chicken Quinoa Soup experience to the next level.
- Crusty Bread: A rustic loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up the hearty flavors of the soup.
- Simple Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a crisp contrast that refreshes the palate.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty, gooey cheese complements the warm soup beautifully, making for a comforting combo.
- Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness and savory depth might just take your soup to a whole new level of comfort.
- Herb Butter Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn is a wonderful summer side that brings a pop of flavor and texture.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Light and fluffy, these biscuits provide a perfect cheesy complement while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp, contrasting the savory soup beautifully.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: The light bubbles and citrus cleanse your palate, making it an ideal drink pairing.
- Hot Apple Cider: A seasonal favorite, this warm drink will fill your home with delightful scents and hug your insides!
Chicken Quinoa Soup Variations
Feel free to explore the delightful twists you can add to your Chicken Quinoa Soup, transforming it to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Turkey or Tofu: Substitute chicken with turkey for a leaner option, or use tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Both swaps maintain the heartiness of the soup.
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Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes. Their vibrant colors and unique textures will make your soup even more inviting and nutritious.
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Spice it Up: Boost the heat by adding fresh chili peppers or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Adjusting spice levels gives you control over the soup’s kick!
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley instead of dried ones. Fresh herbs will enhance the soup’s aroma and freshness, making each bowl more vibrant.
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Grain Options: If you prefer a different base, swap quinoa for brown rice or even barley. Both options will provide a hearty texture and are equally delicious.
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Broth Choices: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version. This not only adapts the soup but also adds a unique depth of flavor.
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Creamy Spin: For a smoother texture, blend half of the soup after cooking. Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk to create a rich, creamy Chicken Quinoa Soup.
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Add Lentils: Boost protein and fiber by tossing in some lentils. They pair beautifully with the existing ingredients, creating an even more filling meal.
With these variations, your Chicken Quinoa Soup can transform into a new culinary delight each time you make it! Consider pairing it with warm bread, or perhaps try a comforting bowl of Chicken Mushroom Soup for another delicious option!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Quinoa Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, keeping them fresh in an airtight container. For even greater convenience, cook the soup completely and refrigerate it, allowing you to enjoy flavorful results up to 5 days later. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat your Chicken Quinoa Soup on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. To maintain the perfect texture, you may want to add a splash of broth if it thickens upon sitting. With these make-ahead options, you’ll savor homemade goodness with minimal effort!
Chicken Quinoa Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of quinoa should I use for Chicken Quinoa Soup?
I recommend using rinsed white quinoa, as it’s the most commonly available and has a mild flavor. Rinsing helps remove its naturally bitter coating, enhancing the overall taste of your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
How do I store leftover Chicken Quinoa Soup?
Store any leftover Chicken Quinoa Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re meal prepping, this makes it a breeze to reheat for a quick dinner. Just remember to add a splash of broth when reheating; it thickens a bit as it sits!
Can I freeze Chicken Quinoa Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze Chicken Quinoa Soup for up to 3 months. Just use a freezer-safe container and ensure it’s sealed well. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and add some broth during reheating to restore consistency.
How can I adapt Chicken Quinoa Soup for dietary restrictions?
To make Chicken Quinoa Soup vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Additionally, feel free to load it up with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or kale, ensuring it remains rich and nourishing.
What are common issues I might encounter when making Chicken Quinoa Soup?
One common issue is quinoa becoming mushy if cooked for too long. To prevent this, monitor your cooking time—ideally cook it for 3-5 hours on high in a slow cooker. If you prefer cooking on low, ensure you have enough liquid to maintain the desired soup consistency, adjusting as needed.
Cozy Up with This Delicious Chicken Quinoa Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 diced yellow onion, 2 diced celery stalks, and 2 diced carrots. Stir occasionally and cook for 7-9 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, creating a fragrant base for your Chicken Quinoa Soup.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon each of Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, and thyme. Let the mixture cook for an additional 1-3 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Cut 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add to the slow cooker.
- Add 1 can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, 1 cup of quinoa, 2 bay leaves, and 4 cups of chicken stock to the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 3-5 hours.
- Once cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken and return it back into the soup.
- If desired, stir in 2 cups of coarsely chopped baby spinach.
- Taste your Chicken Quinoa Soup and adjust for seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.
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