Busy Day Soup

When life gets hectic and you need a warm, comforting meal on the table in no time, this Busy Day Soup is the answer. It’s packed with vegetables, tender chicken (or your preferred protein), and loads of flavor, all simmered together for a satisfying dish that will keep you going through the day. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something quick and easy to make.

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Why You’ll Love This Busy Day Soup

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just under an hour, this soup is a perfect weeknight dinner solution.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Hearty & Nourishing: A filling soup with vegetables and protein to keep you full and satisfied.
• Customizable: Add or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients for Busy Day Soup

To make this comforting soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs (or use beans for a vegetarian version), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, and green beans work great)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups pasta (small shapes like elbow, shells, or rotini)
• Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

How to Make Busy Day Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chopped chicken (or protein of your choice) to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned on all sides.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine, then bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to fully cook through.

Step 4: Add the Pasta and Vegetables
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and pasta. Continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the soup is heated through.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese can add an extra touch of richness.
• Pair it with a simple vinaigrette or lemon wedge to balance the flavors.

Tips for the Best Busy Day Soup

• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use beans (like white beans or lentils) for a hearty, plant-based version.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker version, substitute cooked rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in any leftover veggies you have in the fridge, like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage Instructions

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
A: Yes! If using frozen chicken, you can add it directly to the soup and let it cook through while simmering. Just make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Q2: Can I skip the pasta?
A: Yes, you can leave out the pasta or substitute it with rice or quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the ingredient you choose.

Q3: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion: A Simple, Satisfying Meal!

This Busy Day Soup is the definition of easy comfort food. With its hearty ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s the perfect meal for busy days when you need something filling but don’t have a lot of time to spare. Enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors that come together in one pot for minimal hassle and maximum taste.

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your creations.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 5g

This hearty soup is sure to become a go-to recipe for those busy days when you need something easy, filling, and delicious. Enjoy every bowl!

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