This Hearty Chicken and Chickpea Soup is warm and filling, packed with tender chicken, chickpeas, and colorful veggies. It’s like a big hug in a bowl!
Honestly, this soup is my go-to for chilly nights. I love how easy it is to make; just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Delicious and cozy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing as it adds flavor without overpowering. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or canola oil will also work well.
Onion & Garlic: Essential for adding depth! If you’re in a rush, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as quick substitutes, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Carrots & Celery: These add sweetness and crunch. You can substitute with bell peppers for a different taste, or skip them altogether for a simpler soup.
Spices: Ground turmeric and cumin are key for warmth. If you want a little heat, add some cayenne pepper instead. Smoked paprika gives a nice smokiness, but it’s optional.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient! You can use leftover chicken or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chickpeas: These provide protein and bulk. If you’re short on chickpeas, white beans or lentils can be a tasty addition.
Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the soup. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or spinach can be good substitutes.
Lemon Juice: This enhances overall flavor! If you’re out of lemon, a splash of vinegar can bring a similar brightness.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables for Soup?
Sautéing the vegetables builds a flavor base for your soup. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and garlic first. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the sliced carrots and celery. Stir them every few minutes to avoid burning, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Make sure to cook at a medium heat – too high can burn the veggies and too low won’t develop that lovely flavor!
This step sets the stage for a delicious soup, enhancing every bite you take! Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!
Hearty Chicken and Chickpea Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the onion is translucent. This helps build a rich flavor base for your soup.
2. Add the Spices:
Next, stir in the ground turmeric, ground cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for about one more minute, stirring constantly, until the spices become fragrant. This step really enhances the aroma of your soup!
3. Combine the Broth and Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth, and add the shredded chicken and rinsed chickpeas. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Season and Final Touches:
After simmering, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice just before serving. The lemon juice adds a wonderful brightness!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with more black pepper and chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
This Hearty Chicken and Chickpea Soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little warmth in your life. Enjoy every spoonful! 🥣✨
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooking Fresh Chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken! Just drain and rinse it before adding it to the soup. Since it’s already cooked, you can skip the simmering step and just heat everything together for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with extra chickpeas or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for added nutrition!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove!