chicken vegetable soup recipe

This chicken vegetable soup is a little different from your usual, thanks to a splash of lemongrass and fresh ginger. It’s like a warm, aromatic hug, perfect for those days when you crave something both comforting and bright. I love how a few unexpected ingredients can turn a simple broth into something memorable.

Why This Soup Will Keep Calling You Back

Its layered flavors and fresh ingredients create a comforting yet invigorating experience. Plus, the simple process makes it easy to whip up on busy nights or lazy weekends. Each spoonful feels like a small celebration of bright, clean flavors that remind you why homemade soup beats store-bought every time.

Inside the Bowl: Key Ingredients & Their Roles

• Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken adds hearty protein and a satisfying bite.
• Lemongrass: Brings a lemony, herbal aroma that lifts the broth—simmer it gently to avoid overpowering.
• Ginger: Freshly grated, it offers a warm, spicy kick that balances the citrus.
• Carrots: Sweet, tender, and colorful—add texture and natural sweetness.
• Bell peppers: Juicy and crisp, they add a fresh note and vibrant color.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful base—use homemade if you can, for richer depth.
• Lemon juice: Brightens everything—aim for a fresh, zesty punch.

Tools & Equipment for a Seamless Cook

• Large pot: To hold all ingredients and simmer the soup evenly.
• Knife: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Wooden spoon: Stirring and checking the soup’s consistency.
• Ladle: Serving the soup without losing all the broth.

Cooking Process & Tips for a Flavourful, Hearty Soup

Step 1: Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping your workspace. It makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Heat a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and sauté chopped onions until translucent—about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and a stalk of lemongrass (bruised to release flavor). Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Toss in chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté until they just start to soften, around 8 minutes.

Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that appears.

Step 6: Add shredded cooked chicken, a squeeze of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and vegetables are tender.

Step 8: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Step 9: Remove the lemongrass stalk before serving. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes to deepen flavors.

Key Moments & Tips for Perfect Soup

• Vegetables should be tender but not mushy — test with a fork.
• The broth should be clear and fragrant with the lemongrass and ginger aromas.
• Chicken should be shreddable but not stringy — check after simmering.

Common Pitfalls & How to Fix Them

• Boiling vigorously makes vegetables mushy and chicken tough.? Use a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to keep ingredients tender.
• Too salty from the start.? Add salt gradually, taste, then adjust—avoid over-salting.
• Serving with the stalks in the bowl.? Remove lemongrass before serving to prevent overpowering flavor.
• Lack of brightness in flavor.? If soup tastes flat, add a splash more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar.

Enjoy this soup on a chilly evening or whenever you need a comforting bowl. Its bright citrus notes and warming ginger make it stand out from typical chicken soup. Get creative—add noodles, rice, or even a handful of fresh herbs to personalize it. Remember, a good soup is all about balancing fresh ingredients and slow simmering.