High-Protein Chicken Vegetable Soup
Servings
8 servings
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Ingredients
Protein Base
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless skinless chicken breast
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Vegetables
- 2 cups carrots, diced
- 2 cups celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cups spinach
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
Optional Protein Boost
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- or 1 cup lentils
Instructions
Step 1
Place chicken breasts, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves into a large soup pot.
Step 2
Bring to a boil.
Step 3
Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
Step 4
Remove chicken and shred using two forks.
Step 5
Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 6
Add zucchini, green beans, and spinach.
Step 7
Cook another 8–10 minutes.
Step 8
Remove bay leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
Nutrition varies by ingredients used.
Allergen & Nut Information
Tree Nuts
- Contains no tree nuts by default.
Peanuts
- Contains no peanuts by default.
Dairy
- Dairy-free if prepared as written.
Eggs
- Egg-free.
Gluten
- Naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free broth.
Soy
- Check broth ingredients if avoiding soy.
Cross-Contamination Note
If serving someone with severe nut allergies:
- Verify broth and seasonings are produced in nut-safe facilities if required.
- Use separate preparation utensils when cooking for individuals with food allergies.
Weight-Loss Benefits
High Protein
Protein helps:
- Increase satiety
- Preserve muscle during weight loss
- Reduce hunger between meals
Low Calorie Density
Large portions provide volume without excessive calories.
High Water Content
Soup can help increase fullness and support hydration.
Fiber Support
Vegetables contribute fiber that may help manage appetite.
Storage
Refrigerator
- Store in airtight containers.
- Good for 4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Microwave 2–3 minutes.
- Or warm on stovetop over medium heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Add cooked shredded chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Add them during the final 10–15 minutes.
Q: Is this meal good after workouts?
A: Yes. The high protein content supports muscle recovery.
Q: Can I add more protein?
A: Add extra chicken breast, turkey breast, lentils, beans, or cottage cheese stirred in after cooking.
Q: Is this keto-friendly?
A: Yes, if you omit beans and higher-carb vegetables.
Q: How can I make it more filling?
A: Add extra vegetables, beans, or another pound of chicken breast.
Q: Why does my soup taste bland?
A: Add more herbs, garlic, lemon juice, or a small amount of extra salt and pepper to taste.