Heart Healthy Quinoa Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is usually pretty healthy, but we’ve taken things up a notch by adding fiber- and protein-rich quinoa in place of noodles and lowering the sodium by using reduced-sodium broth. If you have ever wondered if you can put quinoa in chicken soup, the answer is a resounding “yes,” as you’ll see from this recipe. Not only does quinoa add nutrients but its slightly chewy texture and nutty taste pair perfectly with the chicken and vegetables in this classic soup. The mix of carrots, celery, onion and tomatoes adds a variety of vitamins and minerals, too.

Quinoa takes about 15 minutes to cook. This recipe calls for quinoa that has already been cooked, but if you prefer adding raw quinoa to the soup, it should be added about 15 minutes before the soup is done. Keep in mind, however, that since quinoa will absorb some of the liquid it cooks in, you’ll need to add more broth to the recipe if you plan on cooking quinoa in the soup rather than cooking it ahead of time and adding it once it’s already cooked. For best results, rinse raw quinoa in a fine mesh strainer before cooking.

In the mood for soup, but want to switch things up a bit? You can’t go wrong with any of these delicious and healthy soup recipes.

• Tuscan White Bean Soup
• Minestrone Soup
• Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing a bowl of steaming hot soup with a fresh salad or an easy-to-prepare sandwich makes a satisfying and complete meal. Here are a few healthy recipes that go well with this healthy chicken soup.

• Grilled Cheese and Veggies Sandwich
• Tuna Melt
• Spinach Salad
• Apple Gorgonzola Salad