Description
This wholesome Crockpot Italian Chicken Quinoa and Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort meal for busy days. By combining lean chicken breast, nutrient-rich quinoa, and a vibrant medley of garden-fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, this slow-cooked dish is both restorative and deeply satisfying. Infused with aromatic Italian herbs, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a savory broth, it offers a clean, protein-packed dining experience that simplifies healthy weeknight dinners while providing excellent leftovers for future meals.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup diced yellow onion
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced carrots
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked white quinoa, rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture into the crockpot.
Add the chicken breasts, rinsed quinoa, fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
Pour in the broth and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the meat to the pot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Ensure you rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any natural bitterness. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. If the soup becomes too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth when reheating.