Broccoli in chicken noodle soup adds a nutritious and flavorful twist to this classic comfort dish. The tender-crisp broccoli florets bring a vibrant green color, a slight crunch, and a mild, earthy taste that pairs beautifully with the savory broth, shredded chicken, and soft noodles.
Not only does broccoli enhance the soup’s texture and taste, but it also boosts its nutritional value with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
Whether you’re looking to add more veggies to your meals or simply elevate your traditional chicken noodle soup, incorporating broccoli is a delicious and wholesome choice.
How To Make Broccoli In Chicken Noodle Soup?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Yield: 4 servings
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or ladle
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables
Incorporate sliced carrots and celery into the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
3. Pour In Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Introduce Chicken And Seasonings
Add shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Cook Noodles And Broccoli
Stir in egg noodles and broccoli florets. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente and the broccoli is tender yet vibrant.
6. Final Touches
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. For a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Broccoli In Chicken Noodle Soup
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 800 mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions Of Broccoli In Chicken Noodle Soup
This broccoli in chicken noodle soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Tips And Variations Of Broccoli In Chicken Noodle Soup
Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein source.
Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to enhance the soup’s nutritional value.
Herb Variations: Fresh herbs such as rosemary or basil can be used in place of thyme for a unique flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Health Benefits Of Broccoli In Chicken Noodle Soup
This soup is a wholesome blend of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair, while broccoli offers vitamins K and C, folate, and fiber. The inclusion of various vegetables contributes to overall health and well-being.
Note
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. Additionally, cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls before ladling the soup can prevent them from becoming overly soft, especially when storing leftovers.
Conclusion
Integrating broccoli into traditional chicken noodle soup elevates its nutritional content and introduces a pleasant crunch. This recipe is both comforting and nourishing, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Broccoli In Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or ladle
Ingredients Â
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon optional
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
InstructionsÂ
Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables
- Incorporate sliced carrots and celery into the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Pour In Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Introduce Chicken And Seasonings
- Add shredded chicken, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Noodles And Broccoli
- Stir in egg noodles and broccoli florets. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente and the broccoli is tender yet vibrant.
Final Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. For a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
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.