Hearty Vegetable Chicken Soup with Kale, Sweet Potatoes, and Quinoa

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup quinoa, rinsed
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Grated Parmesan (optional for non-dairy-free versions)
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Sweet Potatoes and Quinoa:
   • Stir in the sweet potato cubes and quinoa. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and quinoa are tender.
3. Add Chicken and Kale:
   • Stir in the shredded chicken and chopped kale. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
4. Season and Finish:
   • Add lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or Parmesan (if desired).

This Vegetable Chicken Soup is a nutrient-packed, hearty meal that’s perfect for any season. Kale and sweet potatoes provide a boost of antioxidants, while quinoa adds protein and fiber to keep you full and energized. It’s the ultimate healthy comfort food!