Chicken Quinoa Soup

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 medium carrots, diced

2-3 celery stalks, diced

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning mix

¼ teaspoon red chili flakes

6 cups (1.5 liter) low-sodium chicken stock

1 cup (180 g) quinoa, rinsed

1 can (14 oz / 400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 medium chicken breasts (about 1 lb/ 450g)

Juice of half a lemon or lime

A handful of fresh parsley

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and saute for about 5 minutes or until they begin to soften.

Stir in the chopped garlic, ginger, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil.

Add the rinsed quinoa, chickpeas and the chicken breast to the pot.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes.

Check if the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is tender. If not, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot, shred it using two forks, and then return it to the soup.

Add the juice of half a lemon and stir in the fresh parsley.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste and serve h ot, with some extra freshly chopped parsley on top if you like.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken and add it towards the end of the cooking process.

What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use rice, barley, or couscous as a substitute for quinoa.

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version?

Absolutely, vegetable stock is a great substitute for chicken stock if you prefer a vegetarian soup.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts?

While fresh chicken breasts are recommended, you can use canned chicken, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

What other vegetables can I add to the soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

Is it necessary to rinse the quinoa before adding it to the soup?

Rinsing quinoa helps remove its natural coating, which can have a bitter taste.

It’s recommended but not mandatory.

Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh ginger?

Yes, you can substitute ground ginger, but fresh ginger provides a more vibrant flavor.

What other herbs can I use instead of parsley?

Cilantro, dill, or chives can be used as alternatives to parsley for added freshness.