When the weather starts to cool down and leaves begin to fall, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of Acorn Squash Chicken Soup.
This delightful dish combines the natural sweetness of acorn squash with the savory flavors of tender chicken and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting soup perfect for any autumn day.
The vibrant orange hue of the squash adds a beautiful color to your table, while its creamy texture makes the soup irresistibly smooth. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your family. Let’s dive into this bowl of comfort and explore how to bring this delicious recipe to life in your kitchen!
What Does Acorn Squash Pair Well With?
Acorn squash pairs well with a variety of ingredients. I love to combine it with savory herbs like rosemary or thyme. It tastes delicious with meats like chicken, pork, or beef.
I often pair it with nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. For a sweet touch, I add maple syrup or brown sugar.
Acorn squash also goes well with cheese, such as Parmesan or feta. I like to add apples or cranberries for a fruity contrast. This squash is versatile and can enhance both sweet and savory dishes.
What Are The Benefits Of Acorn Squash Soup?
Acorn squash soup offers several health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which boost the immune system. The soup contains dietary fiber that aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Acorn squash is low in calories, making it a good choice for a light meal. It also provides antioxidants that help protect against chronic diseases. The potassium in acorn squash supports heart health.
I find this soup comforting and nourishing, especially in cooler months. It also helps keep me feeling full and satisfied. The combination of nutrients supports overall wellness. I enjoy making it as a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet.
How To Make Acorn Squash Chicken Soup?
Recipe Overview
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot
- Blender or immersion blender
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 medium acorn squash, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Direction
1. Prepare The Squash
Peel the acorn squash, remove the seeds, and chop it into medium-sized pieces.
2. Sauté The Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Cook The Squash
Add the chopped acorn squash to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Broth And Spices
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Blend The Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
6. Add Chicken
Return the soup to the pot (if using a regular blender) and stir in the shredded chicken. Heat until the chicken is warmed through.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Nutrition Facts Of Acorn Squash Chicken Soup
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Acorn Squash Chicken Soup
Tips And Variations Of Acorn Squash Chicken Soup
Spice It Up
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Vegetables
Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition.
Health Benefits Of Acorn Squash Chicken Soup
Acorn squash is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune health. This soup also provides a good amount of protein from the chicken, making it a balanced meal that is both nourishing and delicious​ (Meal Planning Pros)​ (Autoimmune Wellness)​ (Health-Bent).
Special Note
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This variation retains the soup’s richness while catering to different dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Acorn Squash Chicken Soup is a cozy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of savory chicken and sweet acorn squash makes it a family favorite.
With its nourishing ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!
Acorn Squash Chicken Soup
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Blender or immersion blender
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Â
1 medium acorn squash, peeled, seeded, and chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
InstructionsÂ
Prepare The Squash
- Peel the acorn squash, remove the seeds, and chop it into medium-sized pieces.
Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant.
Cook The Squash
- Add the chopped acorn squash to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Broth And Spices
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
Blend The Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Add Chicken
- Return the soup to the pot (if using a regular blender) and stir in the shredded chicken. Heat until the chicken is warmed through.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.