Chicken and Vegetable Soup

As the days get colder, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of chicken and vegetable soup. This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic thyme, all simmered together in a rich chicken stock. The addition of pasta gives it a comforting, hearty finish that makes it perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.

INGREDIENTS

2 litres of chicken stock
1 chicken breast, boiled and shredded
100 g pasta (any small shape works well)
1 medium carrot, peeled and cubed
1/2 small parsnip, peeled and cubed
25 g celery root, peeled and cubed
1 leek, middle part only, diced
2 garlic cloves, peeled and cubed
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

METHOD

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   Begin by peeling and cubing the carrot, garlic, celery root, and parsnip. Dice the middle part of the leek, discarding the root and dark green leaves.
2. Bring the Chicken Stock to a Simmer
   In a large pot, bring the chicken stock to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken breast and let it warm in the broth.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the carrot and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Next, add the cubed celery root and parsnip, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Finally, add the diced leek, garlic, and fresh thyme leaves, stirring until the vegetables are slightly golden and aromatic.
4. Combine and Simmer
   Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the pot with the chicken stock. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Add Pasta
   Taste the soup and add salt as needed. Then, add the pasta and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme if desired.

This chicken and vegetable soup with pasta is not only nourishing but also easy to make. Each spoonful offers tender vegetables, savoury chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta for a delicious and satisfying experience. Enjoy it as a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out!