Hearty Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup: A Cozy Delight for Any Day
Welcome to a comforting recipe perfect for chilly days and cozy meals. Our Hearty Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup is a bowl of warmth, combining tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and the delightful tang of dried cranberries. Originally featured in the Chopping Block column of our local TV Guide, this soup is both easy to make and incredibly versatile, with options to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a special treat that tastes like Christmas in a bowl, this recipe has got you covered.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
Servings: Makes about 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed; can use canned sweet potatoes for a quicker option)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or substitute with beef broth for a richer flavor)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup white beans (canned or cooked)
- 1 cup cooked chicken meat (diced)
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried if fresh is unavailable)
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for added heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder (optional, for a hint of warmth)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes if using fresh ones. Place them in a large pot with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender, which should take about 10 minutes. If using canned sweet potatoes, simply heat them in the broth until they are warmed through.
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Add the Broth and Beans: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, add the chicken broth to the pot. Stir in the white beans and diced chicken. If youβre using canned beans, make sure to drain and rinse them before adding.
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Incorporate the Cranberries and Herbs: Add the dried cranberries to the soup, along with the dried thyme. If youβre using fresh thyme, add it in at this stage as well. Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Season and Garnish: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a bit of spice, add the chili flakes. For a touch of warmth, stir in the ginger powder. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. This soup is perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Results:
- Customize Your Broth: Feel free to experiment with different types of broth. Vegetable broth gives a lighter taste, while beef broth adds a deeper flavor. Combining them can create a unique taste profile.
- Make It Spicy: Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of chili flakes. For a milder soup, omit the chili flakes entirely.
- Boost the Flavor: Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors.
Enjoy this comforting Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup any time you need a quick, hearty meal. With its delightful mix of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. ππ²π₯
