In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to prepare nutritious meals can be a challenge. However, with the right recipes, even the busiest days can end with a satisfying and wholesome dinner. This article introduces a busy day soup recipe that is not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring that you can enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of uncooked pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Brown the Chicken:
- Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pot, and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
- Stir in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
5. Cook the Pasta:
- In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Soup and Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the soup and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, ensuring that the pasta is heated through and has absorbed some of the flavors from the soup.
7. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Benefits of Busy Day Soup Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weekdays.
- Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, this soup provides a balanced meal in one bowl.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or protein sources.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing simple, affordable ingredients, this soup won’t break the bank.
Conclusion
With this busy day soup recipe, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal even on the most hectic of days. By following these simple instructions and using wholesome ingredients, you can nourish yourself and your family without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Make this recipe a staple in your kitchen for convenient and comforting meals anytime. Try it today and discover the joy of homemade soup, even on the busiest of days.
