Boost Immunity with our eco rascals Homemade Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Course: Lunch and Dinner

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Servings: Serves 5

When it comes to keeping your family healthy and cozy during colder months, nothing beats a bowl of homemade chicken soup. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and nourishing broth, this classic recipe is not just delicious—it's also known for its immune-boosting properties.

In this post, we’ll guide you through our tried-and-tested homemade chicken soup recipe and share tips on how to customise it for your family’s taste buds. Whether you're fighting off a cold or simply craving a wholesome meal, this soup is a must-have in your culinary arsenal.

Chicken soup has long been celebrated as a natural remedy for colds and viruses. The warm broth helps soothe a sore throat, while the combination of chicken and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals to support the immune system.

Here’s why you’ll love this homemade chicken soup:

• Immune Boosting: Packed with vitamin-rich vegetables and protein from chicken.

• Kid-Friendly: A comforting meal that even picky eaters enjoy.

• Customisable: Add your family’s favourite veggies and spices.

• Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe.

• 1.5 liters of Chicken Broth
• 4 Garlic Cloves
• 250g Organic Chicken Breasts (whole)
• 100g Onion, diced
• 100g Celery, diced
• 100g Carrot, diced
• 75g Corn Kernels

Optional to Add:

• 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end of cooking)

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

• 1-2 cups cooked pasta or rice for a heartier meal

Now, let’s dive into the recipe.

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

2. Add the Chicken and Broth: Place the chicken breasts in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a boil.

3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.

5. Season and Finish: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If using frozen peas, add them now and cook for another 5 minutes.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot. Add cooked pasta or rice for extra heartiness.

1. Use Quality Ingredients

Opt for organic chicken and fresh vegetables whenever possible. The better the ingredients, the more flavourful and nutritious your soup will be.

2. Homemade Broth for the Win

If you have time, making your own chicken broth will elevate the flavour of the soup. Simply simmer chicken bones with water, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and herbs for a few hours.

3. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables

To maintain their nutritional value and texture, add firmer vegetables like carrots at the beginning and more delicate ones like peas near the end.

4. Get Creative with Veggies

Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on your family’s preferences. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, and spinach are great options.

5. Spice it Up

For a more flavorful twist, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Getting kids to eat their veggies can be a challenge, but this soup makes it easy. The warm, comforting broth combined with bite-sized chicken and colourful vegetables is inviting for little ones. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in immune-boosting ingredients.

Pro Tip for Parents

Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping or sprinkle some grated cheese on top to make it even more appealing.

This soup is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

1. Creamy Chicken Soup

Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.

2. Asian-Inspired Chicken Soup

Add ginger, soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil for a delicious twist.

3. Vegetarian Version

Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.

1. Rich in Nutrients

Chicken provides essential protein for growth and repair, while vegetables offer a variety of vitamins and minerals.

2. Hydration

The broth helps keep kids (and adults) hydrated, especially when battling colds.

3. Soothes Cold Symptoms

The steam from the soup can help clear nasal passages, and the warm liquid is gentle on sore throats.

4. Boosts Immunity

Garlic, onions, and herbs like thyme and oregano have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Making homemade chicken soup isn’t just about the delicious result—it’s also a fantastic opportunity to get your kids involved in the kitchen. Cooking together helps children develop important life skills, builds their confidence, and creates wonderful family memories.

Here are some simple tasks kids can help with:

• Washing Vegetables: Teach them how to properly rinse and scrub the carrots and celery.
  
  

• Peeling and Chopping: Older kids can safely use a kid-friendly knife to cut softer ingredients, under supervision.
  
  

• Measuring Ingredients: Let them measure out the spices and broth.
  
  

• Stirring the Pot: Younger kids will love carefully stirring the vegetables as they cook.
  
  

• Shredding Chicken: Once cooled, kids can help shred the chicken with their hands.
  
  

Involving kids in cooking encourages them to try new foods and fosters a positive relationship with healthy eating. Plus, they’ll feel proud knowing they helped create a nourishing meal for the family.

Homemade chicken soup is more than just a meal—it’s a nourishing tradition that brings families together. With its immune-boosting properties, kid-friendly flavours, and endless customisation options, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation.

So, the next time you need a comforting dish to fight off colds or simply want a hearty family dinner, give this homemade chicken soup a try. Trust us—you’ll be going back for seconds!

Happy cooking and stay healthy!