When the weather turns chilly or when you’re craving something warm and hearty, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of chicken noodle soup. But what if you could enjoy this comfort food while boosting your health at the same time? That’s where the Brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup comes in—a dish that brings together the familiar flavors of your favorite soup, with a healthful twist from the nutrient-packed Brussel sprouts. It’s the perfect meal to support your well-being while satisfying your hunger. Whether you’re looking to add more greens to your diet or simply enjoy a wholesome, hearty meal, this soup will not disappoint. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup?
If you’ve been making the same old chicken noodle soup for years, you might wonder what makes this version stand out. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this healthier take on the classic:
Packed with Nutrients: Brussel sprouts are tiny but mighty! They are an excellent source of vitamin K, folate, and fiber, which promote bone health and support the immune system. Combined with lean chicken and vegetables, you get a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Low-Calorie Comfort: Despite being packed with flavor and heartiness, this soup is surprisingly light. The broth-based soup keeps it low in calories without sacrificing the satisfaction of a filling meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup is ideal for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge for several days and freezes beautifully, making it a convenient choice for busy weeks ahead.
Flavorful, Yet Simple: The earthy taste of brussel sprouts pairs beautifully with the savory broth, tender chicken, and the comforting texture of the noodles. Add a touch of lemon juice at the end, and you’ve got a soup that’s both familiar and fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup!
You might be wondering: What makes this soup different from your regular chicken noodle soup? Let’s explore why you’ll love this brussel sprouts version!
A Healthier, Wholesome Option: This soup is not only flavorful but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Brussel sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps fight off colds and flu, especially during the colder months. You’re getting plenty of vegetables, lean protein, and fiber, making this soup a nutritious powerhouse.
Comfort Without Guilt: Traditional chicken noodle soup can sometimes feel heavy, especially if it’s packed with cream or high-fat ingredients. By using a broth-based soup and healthy, lean chicken, you get all the comfort of a warm bowl of soup without the added calories and fat.
Perfect for All Diets: Whether you’re following a low-carb, low-fat, or even gluten-free diet, this soup can be customized to meet your needs. Simply swap out the noodles for a gluten-free option or use spiralized zucchini as a noodle substitute.
Easy to Make, Easy to Enjoy: The best part about this brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup is how simple it is to prepare. In just a few steps, you’ll have a flavorful, wholesome meal that’s ready to enjoy. The prep time is minimal, making it an ideal meal for busy days when you want something quick yet nutritious.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a healthy, hearty meal ready in no time. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (450 g)
- 2 cups brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved (200 g)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (150 g)
- 2 stalks celery, chopped (100 g)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (960 ml)
- 1 ½ cups egg noodles (whole wheat or gluten-free) (150 g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (9 g)
- 1 medium onion, diced (150 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 g)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How to Make Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup
Ready to make this healthy, hearty soup? Here’s how you do it:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the kitchen fills with a delicious aroma.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set it aside.
- Add the Veggies: Next, toss in the halved brussel sprouts and chopped celery. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the Brussel sprouts to soften slightly while adding some color to the pot.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, and stir in the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer, and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the Brussel sprouts are tender.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and let them cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until they’re tender. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with Lemon: For a bright, fresh finish, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for added flavor and color.
Expert Tips for Perfect Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup
To make sure your soup turns out just right, here are a few expert tips:
Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, using bone-in chicken can enrich the broth with a deeper, fuller flavor. The bones release collagen, making the broth more flavorful and satisfying.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Noodles can become mushy if overcooked, so be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully. It’s better to slightly undercook them, as they’ll continue to soften in the hot soup.
Add Greens for Extra Nutrition: If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to toss in some spinach, kale, or zucchini. These greens will boost the soup’s nutritional profile and add more color to the dish.
Keep it Low-Sodium: For a heart-healthier option, use low-sodium chicken broth, and be mindful of how much salt you add to the soup. You can always add more at the end if needed.
Enhance the Flavor with Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or sage can add a beautiful aroma and depth to the soup. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of herbs!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making soup is straightforward, but there are a few things you should watch out for to ensure it turns out perfect:
Overcooking the Vegetables: While Brussel sprouts are known for their hearty texture, they can become mushy if cooked for too long. Aim to cook them just until tender, about 20 minutes in the broth.
Forgetting to Shred the Chicken: For an even distribution of chicken throughout the soup, be sure to shred it once it’s cooked. This helps incorporate the chicken into every bite, enhancing the flavor.
Too Many Noodles: Adding too many noodles can make your soup too starchy and heavy. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced soup-to-noodle ratio.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to try:
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup for a touch of heat that complements the Brussel sprouts perfectly.
Swap the Noodles: For a gluten-free version, swap the egg noodles for rice noodles or even use quinoa for a more nutritious, protein-packed option.
Add Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a slight sweetness to balance the brussel sprouts’ bitterness while adding additional nutrients like beta-carotene.
Serving Suggestions for Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup
Once your soup is ready, you can elevate the meal with these simple serving suggestions:
Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of toasted, whole-grain bread is the perfect accompaniment for dipping and sopping up the flavorful broth.
Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or basil on top of your soup before serving to add a burst of flavor and color.
Pair with a Light Salad: A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the hearty soup, adding a refreshing contrast.
FAQ Section: Your Brussel Sprouts Chicken Noodle Soup Questions Answered
Why not boil Brussel Sprouts?
When making brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup, it’s best to avoid boiling the Brussel sprouts for long periods. Over-boiling can cause the sprouts to become mushy and lose their distinct texture. A gentle simmer, as outlined in the recipe, will ensure the Brussel sprouts remain tender without losing their firmness and nutrients.
What is the secret ingredient in this soup?
The secret ingredient in Brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup is the Brussel sprouts themselves! Their unique flavor and texture, combined with the savory chicken broth and fresh vegetables, add a depth of flavor that elevates this soup above the ordinary. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the whole dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Is chicken noodle soup in a can healthy?
While canned chicken noodle soup can be convenient, it often contains high levels of sodium, preservatives, and artificial flavors, making it less healthy than a homemade version. For a healthier option, making your brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, reduce sodium, and avoid unwanted chemicals, making it a much better choice for your health.
When not to use Brussels sprouts?
Although brussel sprouts are incredibly healthy, they may not be the best choice for everyone. If you’re someone who struggles with digestion or has a sensitive stomach, brussel sprouts may cause bloating or discomfort due to their high fiber content. Additionally, people with certain thyroid conditions, like hypothyroidism, should avoid consuming large quantities of cruciferous vegetables like brussel sprouts due to their goitrogenic properties, which can interfere with iodine absorption. In such cases, consult with your healthcare provider before adding them to your diet.
More Chicken recipes you will love!
Indonesian chicken pounded with green sambal
Brazilian roasted half chicken
Healthy Chicken thighs hominy casserole
Healthy brussel sprouts chicken noodle soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (450 g)
- 2 cups brussel sprouts trimmed and halved (200 g)
- 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced (150 g)
- 2 stalks celery chopped (100 g)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth 960 ml
- 1 ½ cups egg noodles whole wheat or gluten-free (150 g)
- 3 cloves garlic minced (9 g)
- 1 medium onion diced (150 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 15 g
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme fresh or dried
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set it aside.
- Add brussel sprouts and celery to the pot. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until the brussel sprouts are tender.
- Add egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Stir in shredded chicken and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.