High Protein Chicken Soup for Meal Prep
If you’re on the lookout for a nutritious and delicious meal prep option, look no further than this high protein chicken soup. Not only is it packed with lean protein, but it’s also loaded with veggies and hearty ingredients that make it a complete meal. Perfect for busy weekdays, this soup is easy to prepare, can be stored in the refrigerator, and will keep you satisfied throughout the day.
This recipe is not just about comfort food; it’s designed to support your fitness goals as well. High in protein, low in carbs, and full of vitamins and minerals, this chicken soup can aid in muscle recovery and weight loss. Let’s dive into the specifics of this recipe!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the boneless chicken breast to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes before shredding it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the white beans and fresh spinach.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the flavors meld together.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, or divide it into meal prep containers for the week ahead.
Why You’ll Love This High Protein Chicken Soup
This high protein chicken soup is not only easy to make, but it also checks all the boxes for a healthy meal prep. The combination of chicken and beans provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor.
Another great feature of this soup is its versatility. Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add zucchini, bell peppers, or even some corn for extra sweetness. Additionally, if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can skip the beans or replace them with cauliflower rice.
Meal Prep Tips
When it comes to meal prepping, this chicken soup is a star. Here are some tips to ensure your meal prep is a success:
- Storage: Store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens.
- Customization: Personalize your soup by adding your favorite herbs or spices. A squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of cheese can elevate the flavors further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking. You can also serve it with a dash of hot sauce.
Can I add pasta to the soup?
Yes! If you’d like to add pasta, just cook it separately and mix it in before serving. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the soup.
Conclusion
This high protein chicken soup is the perfect solution for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying delicious meals. Its rich flavor, combined with its nutritional benefits, makes it an excellent choice for meal prep. Whether you’re looking to fuel your workouts or simply want a comforting dish to enjoy during the week, this recipe has you covered.
So grab your ingredients and get cooking! You’ll be delighted with how easy it is to prepare and how fulfilling each bowl can be. Enjoy your meal prep journey with this delightful high protein chicken soup!
