Nourishing winter soup recipes: Hearty chicken and vegetable soup

Expert nutritionist Nicola Jaffrey from Embody Nutrition Consulting, shares her easy chicken and vegetable soup recipe, perfect for incorporating protein-packed foods into your meals during the colder months.

As the chill of winter sets in, maintaining optimal nutrition becomes paramount, especially for older adults. Ensuring an adequate intake of energy (kilojoules) and protein is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting muscle health, and boosting immunity during the colder months. Discover Nicola’s easy chicken and vegetable soup recipe, as well as her handy tip to incorporate protein-packed foods into your winter diet.

Hearty chicken and vegetable soup

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 1 tbs olive oil 

• 1 onion, diced 

• 2 cloves garlic, minced 

• 2 carrots, diced 

• 2 celery stalks, diced 

• 2 cups diced cooked chicken breast 

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth 

• 1 cup cooked quinoa 

• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. 
2. Add carrots and celery, cook until slightly softened. 
3. Stir in diced chicken, broth, and cooked quinoa. Bring to a simmer. 
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. 
5. Serve hot and enjoy a protein-packed meal.

Nicola’s tip: Prioritise protein-rich foods

Incorporating protein-packed foods into your meals, such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy products, is vital. Try this delicious Chicken and Vegetable soup to boost your protein intake.