Introduction
When it comes to feeding kids, finding meals that are both nutritious and appealing can be a challenge. One dish that consistently wins over young palates is comforting chicken soup for kids. This delightful soup is not only packed with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, but it also serves as a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when your little ones need a bit of extra comfort, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
This easy chicken soup can be made in under an hour and is a fantastic way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your child’s diet. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add in their favorite veggies or even pasta to make it more fun. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will have your kids asking for seconds!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in the broth.
- Stir in the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- If using pasta, add it to the pot now. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the comforting chicken soup warm!
Why Chicken Soup is Perfect for Kids
Chicken soup has long been regarded as a comfort food, especially for children. The warmth and soothing nature of the broth can help ease a sore throat or provide relief from the common cold. Additionally, the combination of protein from chicken and vitamins from the vegetables offers a nourishing meal that kids need, especially when they are feeling under the weather.
Kids are often drawn to the familiar flavors and textures of chicken soup. The soft, tender chicken pieces and the gentle crunch of vegetables make each bite satisfying. Furthermore, the broth is flavorful yet mild, making it palatable for even the pickiest eaters.
Customizing Your Chicken Soup
One of the best things about chicken soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your child’s preferences. If they love a particular vegetable, such as corn or green beans, feel free to toss that in! You can also change up the herbs; try adding dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
If your child enjoys pasta, adding small shapes like stars or letters can make the meal more fun. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly so that the pasta doesn’t become mushy.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing chicken soup is easy. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
When it comes time to reheat, you can do so on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened while sitting, add a splash of water or broth to return it to the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time. Just shred the meat and add it towards the end of cooking to warm it through.
Is this chicken soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by omitting the pasta or using gluten-free pasta options.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients except for the peas and pasta into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the peas and pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Making a comforting chicken soup for kids is not only a delicious way to nourish your family, but it also creates a warm atmosphere around the dinner table. With easy preparation and endless customization options, this recipe is one that you will turn to time and again.
The next time you want to whip up something special for your little ones, remember this comforting chicken soup. It’s sure to warm their hearts and fill their bellies with goodness. Happy cooking!
