Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sizzling chicken sausage mingled with fresh vegetables instantly transports me to cozy family dinners on chilly evenings. This Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup is the perfect antidote to those fast-food cravings, serving up a comforting bowl of nourishment that’s as delicious as it is wholesome. With quick prep and packed with nutrients, this dish not only delights the senses but also warms the heart. It’s a meal that embraces the essence of home cooking, making it an ideal option for lunch or dinner. Dive in and discover how easily you can whip up this heartwarming soup and bring a touch of homemade goodness to your table. Are you ready to savor each warming spoonful? Why is Chicken Sausage Soup a Must-Try? Comforting, this Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup wraps you in warmth with every spoonful, making it perfect for chilly nights. Nourishing ingredients like fresh vegetables and lean protein create a wholesome meal that satisfies cravings without the guilt of fast food. Quick prep means you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time, and versatile variations allow you to make it your own—try adding beans or swapping the sausage for smoked varieties! For an even heartier meal, pair it with crusty bread or a light salad. You’ll want to revisit this recipe again and again, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire. Chicken Sausage Soup Ingredients • Discover the key ingredients for a fulfilling experience! For the Soup Base Chicken Sausage – Provides lean protein and rich flavor; opt for sweet or mildly spiced varieties for best taste. Olive Oil – A healthy fat for sautéing, enhancing the flavors of your vegetables beautifully. Onion (1 medium) – Adds depth and natural sweetness; substitute with shallots for a milder taste if preferred. Carrots (2 medium) – Their sweetness and vibrant color make the soup delightful; substitute with parsnips for an earthier flavor. Celery (2 stalks) – Contributes crisp texture and balances out the richness of the sausage. Garlic (3 cloves) – Provides aromatic depth; mincing allows for better incorporation into the soup. Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – Serves as the soup’s base; choosing low-sodium is often preferred, while homemade stock truly enhances flavor. For the Greens Kale or Spinach (2 cups) – Nutrient-rich greens add color and texture; feel free to substitute with Swiss chard if desired. Seasoning Essentials Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning – Fundamental to deepen flavor; adjust to taste for your perfect bowl of Chicken Sausage Soup. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup Step 1: Prep Ingredients Begin by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Mince the garlic finely to release its aromatic flavor and slice the chicken sausage if it’s not pre-sliced. This prep will enhance the cooking process, making it seamless as you whip up your delicious Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup. Step 2: Sauté Sausage In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s golden brown. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen, and the sausage should be nicely caramelized, creating a flavor base for your soup. Step 3: Add Vegetables Next, stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery into the pot. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften and the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing it to release its fragrance and enhance the overall flavor of your Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup. Step 4: Combine Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot—these bits will add extra flavor. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching closely as it bubbles. This step is crucial for melding the flavors together before simmering. Step 5: Simmer Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. The ingredients will begin to blend, and you should see the vegetables tenderizing. After this time, add in the 2 cups of kale or spinach, stirring it into the soup until it wilts, which should take about 5 minutes more. Step 6: Season and Serve Taste your Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to your preference. Once the flavors are balanced to your liking, ladle the soup into bowls while it’s hot. This final touch makes it ready to serve, ensuring a comforting and delicious meal awaits you. Expert Tips for Chicken Sausage Soup Brown the Sausage: Properly browning the chicken sausage is key to enhancing flavor; avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking. Season as You Go: Tasting and adjusting seasoning throughout cooking helps you achieve depth of flavor in your Chicken Sausage Soup. Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer adequately; rushing this step may lead to blandness as flavors won’t meld properly. Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh vegetables instead of frozen for superior taste and nutrients; your soup will be much more vibrant! Batch Cooking Tip: Consider making a larger batch; this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be frozen for up to three months. Storage Tips for Chicken Sausage Soup Fridge: Cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring it remains delicious and ready for quick meals. Freezer: For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Chicken Sausage Soup overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quicker option. Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick after freezing. Make Ahead Options These Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and slice the chicken sausage up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can make the entire soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before serving; simply let it cool completely before transferring to a storage container. When ready to enjoy, heat the soup gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to regain the perfect consistency. Your comforting Chicken Sausage Soup will taste just as delicious and nourishing, making your meal planning a breeze! What to Serve with Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup The perfect meal starts with a warm, inviting bowl of soup, complemented by delightful sides that enhance your dining experience. Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the hearty broth, soaking up the flavors and adding a comforting crunch. Enjoying a buttery baguette or a rustic loaf alongside the soup makes every bite more satisfying. Mixed Green Salad: A light, mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette introduces a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, balancing your meal beautifully. Tossed with seasonal vegetables and a hint of lemon, this salad elevates the entire dish. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm garlic breadsticks offer a delectable, buttery goodness that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the soup. The crusty exterior and fluffy interior provide the perfect texture to accompany your bowl of chicken sausage soup. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized, roasted vegetables bring earthiness and sweetness to the table, enhancing your soup’s comforting vibes. This colorful medley not only adds nutritional value but also provides a delightful textural contrast. Cheese and Cracker Platter: A simple cheese and cracker platter adds a hint of elegance and encourages a casual, shareable dining experience. Pairing creamy cheeses with crunchy crackers offers a wonderful variety of textures that complements the soup well. Chardonnay or Light Ale: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light ale pairs flawlessly, enhancing both the soup’s flavors and your dining pleasure. These beverages add a touch of warmth and sophistication to your cozy meal. Chicken Sausage Soup Variations Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Sausage Soup for a delightful twist that suits your taste and dietary needs. Smoked Sausage: Swap the chicken sausage for smoked sausage for a richer, deeper flavor that adds a hint of complexity to the soup. Beans: Add canned or cooked beans like cannellini or chickpeas to enhance fiber and heartiness; they’ll make your soup even more nourishing. Herb Mix: Experiment with various herbs such as rosemary or dill for unexpected flavor combinations that will elevate your dish to new heights of tastiness. Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, introduce red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking to add a fiery touch to your comforting bowl. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free broth and ensure your sausage is gluten-free to make this soup a delightful option for those with gluten sensitivities. Veggie Boost: Pack in even more nutrients by adding chopped zucchini or bell peppers. These additions contribute vibrant color and extra crunch. Creamy Twist: Stir in a touch of heavy cream or coconut milk near the end of cooking for a creamy texture that transforms your soup into a decadent delight. Pasta Addition: Toss in some cooked small pasta like orzo or ditalini for a filling twist, making this soup even heartier and more satisfying. Don’t forget to pair your Chicken Sausage Soup with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete, comforting meal. If you’re looking for more cozy recipes, try the creamy Ground Chicken Soup or these delightful Poblano Chicken Tacos. Happy cooking! Chicken Sausage Soup Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting chicken sausage? Absolutely! When choosing chicken sausage, opt for varieties that are made with quality ingredients—look for natural casing and minimal additives. Sweet or mildly spiced options work best for this soup, as they pair beautifully with the fresh vegetables. Also, check for freshness; avoid any packages with dark spots or excess liquid. How should I store leftover Chicken Sausage Soup? Very! To keep your Chicken Sausage Soup fresh, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it will keep well for up to 3 days. If you want to savor it longer, consider freezing it in portions; it can last for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor! Can I freeze Chicken Sausage Soup, and if so, how? Absolutely! Freezing Chicken Sausage Soup is easy and a great way to save leftovers. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Seal the containers tightly, label them with the date, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting. What if the soup is too bland after cooking? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! If your Chicken Sausage Soup ends up bland, it’s often due to under-seasoning. Taste it as it cooks and adjust accordingly. Adding salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning little by little can make a big difference. If you want to intensify flavors, a splash of lemon juice or a hint of red pepper flakes can also be nice enhancements! Is this Chicken Sausage Soup suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, it is! Since this Chicken Sausage Soup doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients, it can be a wonderful option for those on a gluten-free diet. Just ensure that your chicken sausage and vegetable broth are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten. Always check labels for any allergens to suit your dietary needs! Hearty Chicken Sausage Soup for Cozy Nights In A comforting bowl of Chicken Sausage Soup perfect for chilly evenings, packed with wholesome ingredients and quick prep. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 package Chicken Sausage Opt for sweet or mildly spiced varieties for best taste.2 tablespoons Olive Oil A healthy fat for sautéing.1 medium Onion Substitute with shallots for a milder taste if preferred.2 medium Carrots Substitute with parsnips for an earthier flavor.2 stalks Celery3 cloves Garlic Mincing allows for better incorporation into the soup.4 cups Vegetable Broth Choosing low-sodium is preferred.For the Greens2 cups Kale or Spinach Feel free to substitute with Swiss chard.Seasoning EssentialsSalt Adjust to taste.Pepper Adjust to taste.Italian Seasoning Adjust to taste. Equipment large potcutting boardknife Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by chopping the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic finely and slice the chicken sausage if it’s not pre-sliced.In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown.Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.Pour in vegetable broth, scraping any browned bits off the bottom. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. Then add in kale or spinach, stirring until wilted.Taste and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesProperly browning the chicken sausage enhances flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for depth of flavor. Fresh vegetables are preferred for superior taste. This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and frozen for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
