Using winter veggies and poached chicken, this dish for healthy, healing soup is robust and filling. This soup is perfect for the winter months since it has fresh herbs, celery, leek, carrots, and parsnips.
Poached Chicken Soup
When I want a comforting and nourishing soup, I skip the traditional chicken noodle soup because I don't eat noodles, except for zoodles. Instead, I load up my soup with hearty winter vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, leeks, celery, and onions. These nutrient-dense veggies not only add flavor and texture to my soup, but they also keep my gut happy and healthy.
What is Poached Chicken?
When I want a healthy and easy way to cook chicken, I turn to poach. To poach chicken, I simply submerge it in a liquid, usually water or broth, and cook it at a low temperature until it's fully cooked. It's a similar concept to poaching eggs, which you may have seen me do before. Unlike my Shredded Chicken recipe, which requires searing the chicken and adding oil or fat, poaching chicken doesn't add any extra fat or calories.
How to Make Poached Chicken and Vegetable Soup
One of my favorite soups to make is a delicious chicken and vegetable soup. What I love about this recipe is that it's easy to make and comes together in no time. Plus, it's packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and lean protein from the chicken.
- To get started, I begin by sautéing the vegetables in a pot for a couple of minutes. I usually use a combination of carrots, parsnips, leeks, celery, and onions. These veggies not only add flavor and texture to the soup but they're also loaded with vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
- Once the veggies have softened a bit, I add the broth, water, herbs, and chicken to the pot. I like to use a combination of chicken broth and water for the base of the soup. This adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. As for the herbs, I usually go for a combination of thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. These herbs add a delicious earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and veggies.
- Next, I bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, I let the chicken poach in the liquid until it's fully cooked. This cooking method is great because it keeps the chicken moist and tender without adding any extra oil or fat.
- After the chicken is cooked through, I remove it from the pot with tongs and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Then, I add the chicken back into the pot and give everything a good stir. And just like that, my delicious chicken and vegetable soup is ready to go!
- To serve, I ladle the soup into bowls and top it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of herb-y goodness.
- Then, I grab a cozy blanket, head over to the fireplace, and enjoy my soup while I rest my feet up. It's the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter's night!
How to Refrigerate Poached Chicken:
The poached chicken should be allowed to reach room temperature entirely. Transfer the chilled chicken to a plastic bag or an airtight container. Put a date on the container and keep it in the fridge. For up to 4 days, poached chicken can be stored in the fridge.
How to Freeze Poached Chicken:
The poached chicken should be allowed to reach room temperature entirely. Transfer the chilled chicken to a plastic bag or an airtight container. Place the container in the freezer and give it a date label. For up to three months, frozen poached chicken can be stored. Before reheating, the chicken should thaw in the refrigerator.
How to Reheat Poached Chicken (If Required):
If necessary, take the poached chicken out of the freezer or refrigerator and let it defrost there. Put the chicken in a pot or a dish that can go in the microwave. Stirring occasionally, cook the chicken in the microwave or on the stove until well warm. Before eating, make sure the chicken has achieved an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
FAQs
Can I poach chicken with other herbs and spices?
Absolutely! You can use any herbs and spices you like to flavor the chicken. Some great options include garlic, ginger, cumin, and paprika.
Conclusion
A nutritious and adaptable protein, poached chicken may be utilized in many different recipes. It is simple to prepare and may be put in the freezer or refrigerator for later use. To guarantee that the chicken is safe for consumption, just remember to follow the recommended storage and reheating procedures.
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