Why the Chicken Noodle Soup Is Great For Burning Fat
When it comes to healthy eating, I’ve found that chicken noodle soup is a fantastic choice for burning fat.
It’s low in calories yet packed with protein from the chicken, which helps keep me full longer. The combination of veggies adds fiber, boosting digestion and metabolism.
Plus, the warmth of the soup can be comforting and satisfying, reducing my cravings for heavier meals. I love how it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to option when I’m busy.
Enjoying a bowl not only fuels my body but also supports my weight loss goals. It’s a win-win!
Ingredients of Chicken Noodle Soup
When it comes to making a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup, the ingredients you choose can really make a difference. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in the flavors but also in the balance of nutrition. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty noodles, every bite is a little hug in a bowl.
Plus, you probably have most of these ingredients hanging around in your kitchen already, which makes whipping up this soup a breeze. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to gather for your delicious Monterey Jack Chicken Noodle Soup!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 chicken breasts
- 2 cups chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrot
- 1/2 cup onion
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large bay leaf
- 8 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 lb dried egg noodles
- 6 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, before you dash off to the grocery store or raid your pantry, let’s talk about a few considerations regarding these ingredients. For instance, if you have leftover rotisserie chicken hanging around, that could save you some time and make the soup even more flavorful.
Just shred the chicken and skip the boiling step. Also, feel free to mix and match the veggies based on what you love or have on hand—peas, corn, or even a sprinkle of spinach can add a nice twist.
And let’s not forget about the cheese! While Monterey Jack brings a creamy, melty goodness, you could swap it for cheddar or leave it out if you’re feeling a tad more health-conscious.
Whatever path you take, remember: this soup is all about warmth, comfort, and making it your own. So, are you ready to get cooking?
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Alright, let’s plunge into making that cozy bowl of Monterey Jack Chicken Noodle Soup. First up, grab yourself 2-3 chicken breasts. Now, if you’re like me, you might be a little clumsy in the kitchen, so keep those fingers clear when you’re handling raw chicken—no one wants a surprise finger cut in their soup.
Toss those chicken breasts into a big pot along with 1/2 cup of chopped onion, 2-3 minced garlic cloves, and a large bay leaf. Now, pour in 8 cups of either water or chicken broth, whichever you prefer. If you’re aiming for a flavor explosion, go for the broth. Bring this mix to a boil, and let it simmer away until the chicken is so tender that it practically begs to be pulled from the bone—about 20-30 minutes should do the trick.
Once your chicken is cooked, carefully fish it out, and let it cool for a bit. Trust me, you don’t want to burn your hands trying to shred it right away.
While that chicken is cooling, it’s time to add some color to your soup. Toss in 2 cups of chopped celery and 1 cup of chopped carrots into the broth. Let these simmer until they’re almost tender, which usually takes another 10-15 minutes.
Now, here’s the fun part: while those veggies are softening up, shred your cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces. Don’t be shy; this is where you can channel your inner chef. Once you’ve got that chicken ready, pop it back into the pot.
The grand finale is just around the corner. Grab 1 pound of dried egg noodles and throw those into the pot with the chicken and veggies. Let that simmer until the noodles are cooked through, which should only take about 7-10 minutes. This is when your kitchen should start smelling like a warm hug.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle in 6 ounces of shredded Monterey Jack cheese right on top. Stir it all together and watch that cheese melt into gooey goodness.
Now you have a big pot of soul-soothing soup ready to warm your heart and belly. What could be better? Go ahead and ladle it into bowls, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful.
Chicken Noodle Soup Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
While traditional chicken noodle soup is comforting, those of us watching our carbs can still enjoy a delicious bowl without sacrificing flavor.
I love swapping out egg noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles; they soak up all the broth nicely. You can also add more veggies like spinach or cauliflower for added nutrition and texture.
For a creamy twist, stirring in some heavy cream or cream cheese gives it a rich taste. Finally, don’t forget to adjust the seasonings—fresh herbs like thyme or basil can elevate the dish.
Enjoying a low-carb version doesn’t mean skimping on satisfaction!
What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup
Enjoying a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup can be even better with the right accompaniments.
I love serving it with warm, crusty bread or buttery crackers to dip. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the soup’s richness.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can whip up some garlic bread for that extra indulgence. For a touch of sweetness, a fruit salad makes a delightful contrast.
Don’t forget a rejuvenating glass of iced tea or lemonade to wash it all down. These pairings elevate the whole meal experience!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To decrease the calories in your Monterey Jack Chicken Noodle Soup, I recommend making a few simple adjustments without sacrificing flavor.
First, use skinless chicken breasts to cut down on fat. You can also swap out regular egg noodles for whole grain or zucchini noodles for fewer calories.
Instead of Monterey Jack cheese, consider using a reduced-fat cheese or simply skip it altogether.
Additionally, increase the amount of veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrition and volume.
Finally, opt for low-sodium chicken broth to keep sodium in check while enjoying a lighter, healthier soup you’ll love!