Busy days can make meal prep feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re craving something nutritious and comforting. That’s where this Busy Day Soup comes in! Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich beans, and tender chicken, this soup is the perfect solution for hectic schedules. It’s simple to prepare, and you can have a warm, hearty meal on the table in no time.
Whether you’re rushing between meetings, running errands, or just looking for a satisfying meal after a long day, this soup is your go-to. With minimal effort and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious dish that will keep you feeling full and content.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to making this delicious soup, as well as tips, benefits, and frequently asked questions to ensure you get the most out of this meal.
Ingredients for Busy Day Soup
Main Ingredients
The key to a successful Busy Day Soup is using fresh, accessible ingredients that cook quickly and create rich, delicious flavors. Here’s what you will need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness.
- 1 onion, chopped – Onion provides depth and flavor to the base of the soup.
- 2 carrots, diced – Carrots add sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Celery gives the soup a slight crunch and a savory taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic imparts a fragrant aroma and a savory note to the soup.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – Tomatoes contribute a tangy flavor and make the soup hearty.
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed – Beans add protein and fiber to make the soup more filling.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Chicken broth creates the flavorful base for the soup.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – Use cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken) to save time and add protein.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme is the perfect herb to complement the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your preference to bring all the flavors together.
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional) – Adding greens like spinach or kale gives the soup a nutritional boost and vibrant color.
Optional Ingredients:
You can customize this soup by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, or even a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
Directions: How to Make Busy Day Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.
This step is essential for developing the flavors of the soup and creating a savory base. The garlic will release its fragrant aroma, which will give your soup a wonderful depth of flavor.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Next, add 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes, 1 can (15 oz) of drained and rinsed white beans, and 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Stir the mixture well to combine. Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a simmer by turning the heat up slightly, and cook for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the ingredients time to blend together and develop a rich, satisfying flavor.
Step 3: Add the Greens
If you’re using 2 cups of chopped spinach or kale, stir them into the soup during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt and become tender, adding both flavor and a nutritional boost to your soup.
Once everything is well combined and heated through, your Busy Day Soup is ready to serve!
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes – The ingredients are simple to prepare, with just a bit of chopping and mincing to do.
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes – The soup simmers for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Total Time: 30 minutes – From start to finish, this soup is incredibly quick to make, making it perfect for busy days.
Kcal per Serving
Each serving of this Busy Day Soup contains about 280 kcal. This makes it a low-calorie yet filling meal, perfect for those who want something comforting without going overboard on calories.
Tips for Making the Best Busy Day Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and moisture to the soup without the need for additional cooking.
- Customize with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes to enhance the soup’s texture and nutrition.
- Add Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley, feel free to substitute them for dried thyme. Fresh herbs will elevate the flavor of the soup even more.
- Make it Spicy: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
Health Benefits of Busy Day Soup
1. Packed with Nutrients
This soup is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and lean protein into your diet. The carrots, celery, spinach (or kale), and beans provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, while the chicken offers a healthy dose of protein.
2. Supports Immune Health
The chicken broth and garlic in this soup offer immune-boosting properties, while the vitamin C in the vegetables helps support your body’s defenses.
3. Easy to Digest
The ingredients in this soup are gentle on the stomach, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive digestive systems or anyone recovering from illness.
4. Helps with Weight Management
Low in calories but high in protein and fiber, this soup can help keep you full and satisfied without excess calories. The beans and chicken help balance your hunger levels, reducing the need for unhealthy snacking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes! This Busy Day Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Frozen vegetables work perfectly in this soup! They’re convenient, nutritious, and reduce prep time even further.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra beans or tofu for additional protein.
Can I Add Pasta or Rice?
Yes! If you want to make the soup even heartier, you can add small pasta or cooked rice. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of whole grain bread, a fresh salad, or a light sandwich for a complete meal.
Conclusion: A Perfect Comfort Food for Busy Days
When time is short and hunger strikes, Busy Day Soup is the perfect solution. It’s quick, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a hearty dish to enjoy with the family, this soup has you covered.
With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a delicious soup that packs in the flavor and nutrition you need to stay energized throughout your busy day. And with its versatility, you can tweak the recipe to your liking, adding extra vegetables, proteins, or seasonings for a unique twist each time.
Enjoy your warm, filling bowl of Busy Day Soup, and make it a regular part of your meal rotation!
