Superfood Quinoa Soup

This Hearty Chicken Quinoa Soup is a wholesome, flavor-packed dish featuring a vibrant medley of vegetables, succulent shredded chicken, tender quinoa, and a warming blend of aromatic spices. Perfectly designed for busy schedules, you can effortlessly prepare this nourishing meal in either your Instant Pot or Slow Cooker, making it an ideal choice for a delicious weeknight dinner, healthy lunch, or efficient meal prep.

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This Quinoa Soup: A Kitchen Staple That Practically Cooks Itself!

Life can get incredibly hectic, and finding the time to prepare a truly nutritious, homemade meal often feels like an impossible task. That’s precisely why I initially developed this incredible Quinoa Soup recipe. I first whipped up this soup on a particularly busy weeknight, craving something deeply hearty yet refreshingly wholesome. Looking into my fridge, I spotted some leftover rotisserie chicken, a few forgotten carrots and celery stalks, and a patiently waiting bag of quinoa in my pantry. It felt like the perfect opportunity to transform these simple, accessible ingredients into something extraordinary.

The true magic of this recipe lies in its almost effortless preparation. Everything went straight into my trusty slow cooker, and as the hours passed, the most amazing, comforting aromas began to fill the entire house. By the time dinner rolled around, my family was practically salivating, and they absolutely devoured every last spoonful. This Chicken Quinoa Soup quickly became my secret weapon; it’s deceptively simple to make but tastes like you spent hours meticulously crafting a gourmet meal. It has since become a highly requested favorite in our home, and I genuinely love making it because I know everyone will leave the table feeling happy, satisfied, and thoroughly nourished.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed for guaranteed success. It’s perfect for efficient meal prepping, feeding a hungry crowd, or simply enjoying a comforting, wholesome bowl on a chilly evening. Get ready to add this amazing and healthy Chicken Quinoa Soup to your regular meal rotation – you won’t regret discovering this flavorful, easy-to-make dish!

Why You’ll Adore This Healthy Chicken Quinoa Soup

This Chicken Quinoa Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that delivers an irresistible combination of flavor, nutrition, and incredible convenience. Here’s a detailed look at why this recipe is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen and a family favorite:

• Effortlessly Delicious & Time-Saving: Whether you opt for the rapid cooking of the Instant Pot or the slow-simmering comfort of a Crock-Pot, this soup requires minimal hands-on time. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss.
• Packed with Nutrient Powerhouses: Every spoonful is bursting with fresh, vibrant vegetables, lean shredded chicken, and the ancient superfood quinoa. This makes it an outstanding source of essential vitamins, dietary fiber, and high-quality protein, contributing to a balanced and healthy diet.
• Incredibly Versatile & Customizable: This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation for culinary creativity. Easily adapt it to your preferences by swapping in your favorite seasonal vegetables, experimenting with different types of beans, or even transforming it into a hearty vegetarian or vegan delight. The robust flavor profile is remarkably flexible.
• Hearty, Filling, and Deeply Satisfying: The harmonious blend of tender chicken, wholesome quinoa, and protein-rich beans creates an incredibly filling and satisfying soup. It ensures that every member of your family will leave the table feeling content and well-fed, banishing any lingering hunger.
• Ideal for Meal Prepping: While this soup is undeniably delicious fresh, it also holds up beautifully for several days when stored properly in the refrigerator. This makes it an excellent candidate for meal prepping, providing you with healthy, ready-to-eat lunches or dinners throughout the week. (Just remember our note on quinoa’s liquid absorption for reheating!)
• Rich, Family-Friendly Flavors: The carefully selected blend of warm and aromatic spices creates a deep, inviting, and complex flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a hit with both adults and discerning young eaters.

Essential Ingredients for the Ultimate Quinoa Soup

Crafting this exceptionally flavorful and wholesome Quinoa Soup relies on a thoughtful selection of fresh produce and readily available pantry staples. Here’s an in-depth guide to what you’ll need, complete with helpful insights, tips, and imaginative substitutions to truly make this recipe your own:

Step-by-Step: How To Make The Ultimate Chicken Quinoa Soup

Making this hearty and healthy Chicken Quinoa Soup is wonderfully straightforward, whether you prefer the rapid efficiency of an Instant Pot or the comforting, hands-off approach of a slow cooker. Follow these simple, detailed steps for a truly delicious and satisfying result:

1. Sauté the Aromatics (Highly Recommended for Deep Flavor): In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, the inner pot of your Instant Pot (using its Sauté function), or a slow cooker with a sauté capability, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add your finely diced yellow onion, thinly sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté, stirring frequently, for approximately 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften considerably and begin to develop a beautiful golden hue. This crucial caramelization step is fundamental for building a rich and profound flavor base for your soup.
2. Build the Essential Flavor Base: Next, stir in the minced garlic, the full 6-ounce can of tomato paste, and all of your carefully measured seasonings (Cajun seasoning, chicken bouillon powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, and paprika). Continue to sauté this aromatic mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the tomato paste will slightly darken, and the entire mixture will become incredibly fragrant, indicating that the spices are blooming and releasing their full potential. Pour in the 14.5-ounce can of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes and stir thoroughly, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful browned bits – this is especially important in an Instant Pot to prevent a “burn” warning.
3. Prepare Your Chicken: While your aromatics are beautifully sautéing, take a moment to meticulously trim any excess fat from your boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. If you’ve opted for chicken breasts, it’s advisable to cut each breast into 2-3 larger, even-sized pieces. This ensures they cook thoroughly and remain wonderfully tender within the cooking time.
4. Combine & Cook (Slow Cooker Method): If you initiated the sautéing process in a separate pan, carefully transfer all the delicious, sautéed contents into your slow cooker. Now, add the trimmed chicken pieces, the thoroughly drained and rinsed pinto beans, the undrained frozen corn (or canned corn), the uncooked but meticulously rinsed quinoa (refer to Note 5 for rinsing instructions), the 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, and the 2 bay leaves. Pour the 5 cups of chicken stock over all the ingredients and gently mix everything together until well combined. Cover your slow cooker and cook on the HIGH setting for 3-5 hours, or until the chicken is exquisitely fork-tender and shreds with ease, and the quinoa has cooked through and “popped” to a fluffy texture. *Important Note: Be mindful that cooking on low for an excessively long duration can lead to the quinoa absorbing too much liquid, resulting in an overly thick, stew-like consistency.*
5. Combine & Cook (Instant Pot Method): If you skillfully used your Instant Pot for the sautéing stage, simply turn off the Sauté function. Now, add the trimmed chicken pieces, the drained and rinsed pinto beans, the undrained frozen corn (or canned corn), the uncooked but thoroughly rinsed quinoa (refer to Note 5), the 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, and the 2 bay leaves. Pour the 5 cups of chicken stock over all the ingredients and stir everything together to ensure even distribution. Secure the lid firmly, ensure the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position, and cook on Manual (or the Pressure Cook setting) for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 7 minutes. After 7 minutes, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”
6. Shred Chicken & Finalize Seasoning: Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, carefully remove the pieces from the pot and expertly shred them using two forks. Return the beautifully shredded chicken to the soup. Crucially, remember to remove and discard the bay leaves before serving. Taste the soup meticulously and adjust the seasonings as needed with additional salt and pepper – the flavors should be vibrant, well-balanced, and truly “sing”!
7. Serve with Zest & Enjoy: Ladle the steaming, aromatic Quinoa Soup generously into individual bowls. Now comes the most delightful part – customize each serving with your absolute favorite toppings! (Be sure to check our “How to Top Your Quinoa Soup Bowl” section for a wealth of inspiring ideas). Enjoy this wholesome, satisfying masterpiece!

How To Top Your Hearty Quinoa Soup Bowl

This Quinoa Soup is incredibly delicious and satisfying straight from the pot, offering a complete meal on its own. However, adding a few choice toppings can truly elevate it to an entirely new level of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Think of these as the perfect finishing touches that customize each serving to perfection!

• Freshly Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A timeless and popular choice. It melts beautifully into the warm soup, adding a savory, tangy, and deeply comforting note. (My kids, without fail, always request an extra generous sprinkle!)
• A Creamy Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This provides a wonderful cool, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced soup. It effectively mellows any subtle heat and adds a luxurious richness. Both regular and lite or fat-free options work perfectly without sacrificing that desired creamy texture.
• A Bright Squeeze of Fresh Lime Juice: Do not underestimate this simple yet powerful addition! A burst of vibrant citrus effortlessly brightens all the flavors within the soup, adding a refreshing, zesty zing that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall balance.
• Fragrant Fresh Herbs: Finely chopped fresh cilantro is an absolutely fantastic complement, lending a vibrant, herbaceous aroma and a beautiful pop of green. If cilantro isn’t quite to your taste, fresh parsley is a wonderful, milder alternative that still offers that essential fresh lift.
• Crispy Crushed Tortilla Chips or Strips: For an delightful textural contrast and a subtle salty crunch, much like you’d find in a traditional tortilla soup.
• Creamy Diced Avocado: Adds a smooth, rich texture and a boost of healthy fats, making each bite even more satisfying and luxurious.
• Zesty Sliced Green Onions: Provides a mild, fresh oniony kick and a lovely burst of green color for garnish.
• A Dash of Your Favorite Hot Sauce: For those who love an extra layer of heat and tangy flavor.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Quinoa Soup

Achieving a truly outstanding and consistently delicious Quinoa Soup is easy when armed with a few expert insights and best practices. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your soup is always a resounding success:

• Embrace the Sauté Stage: The initial step of sautéing the mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery) and then blooming the tomato paste and spices is not merely optional – it is absolutely paramount. This foundational stage develops incredibly rich, complex, and savory flavors that truly define the depth of this soup. If your slow cooker or Instant Pot lacks a sauté function, make the effort to do this step in a separate pan and then transfer the contents. It makes all the difference!
• Always Rinse Your Quinoa: Quinoa naturally possesses a bitter protective coating called saponin. Even if the package labels it as “pre-rinsed,” it’s always a good practice to give it a quick, thorough rinse under cold running water in a fine-mesh sieve. Continue rinsing until the water flows completely clear. This simple step ensures a clean, pure taste in your finished soup.
• Season Liberally and Taste Frequently: Recipes provide excellent guidelines, but ultimately, your own taste buds are the most reliable judge. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed. The goal is for all the flavors to harmonize and truly “sing” together!
• Choose Chicken Thighs for Superior Tenderness: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts certainly work in this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs generally yield significantly more tender, juicier, and flavorful shredded chicken, especially after slow cooking or pressure cooking. They are less prone to drying out.
• Be Mindful of Quinoa’s Liquid Absorption: Quinoa is an impressively absorbent grain. The longer the soup rests, particularly as leftovers, the more liquid the quinoa will soak up. This natural process can result in a soup that thickens into a more stew-like consistency. While still incredibly delicious, if you prefer a thinner soup, simply stir in an extra splash of chicken stock or broth when reheating individual servings to achieve your desired consistency.
• The Unsung Hero: Orange Juice: That seemingly small amount of fresh orange juice isn’t just for a hint of citrus flavor; it’s a culinary secret weapon! It works to brighten and lift the entire soup, creating a harmonious balance that beautifully elevates and complements all the other savory and earthy ingredients. Don’t underestimate its impact – it’s a vital component!

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Quinoa Vegetable Soup

By
Chelsea Lords

This Quinoa Vegetable Soup is a hearty, flavor-packed dish loaded with vibrant veggies, tender shredded chicken, wholesome quinoa, and a delicious spice blend. Master this healthy, satisfying meal effortlessly in your Instant Pot or slow cooker!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 5 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Recipe Video

Watch the full recipe video for a visual guide to making this delicious Quinoa Vegetable Soup!

Equipment

• 6-quart Crock-Pot or an Instant Pot

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced celery
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
• 1 (16-ounce) pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, see Note 1
• 1 (15.5-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1-1/2 cups frozen corn or 1 can, drained
• 3/4 cup tri-colored quinoa or plain (rinsed)
• 1 large orange (for 1/2 cup juice)
• 5 cups chicken stock or broth (e.g., Swanson’s)
• 2 bay leaves

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (see Note 2)
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Toppings as desired (see Note 3)

Instructions

1. Optionally Sauté Veggies (adds loads of flavor – see Note 4): In the base of a slow cooker that can sauté, an Instant Pot insert, or a large sauté pan, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the finely diced yellow onion, thinly sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and all the dry seasonings (Cajun seasoning, chicken bouillon powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, and paprika). Season generously with salt and pepper (e.g., 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper). Continue to sauté, stirring frequently, for about 5 more minutes, until the mixture is very fragrant and the tomato paste begins to darken. Pour in the 14.5-ounce can of fire-roasted crushed tomatoes and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful browned bits (this is especially crucial in an Instant Pot to prevent a “burn” warning).
2. Meanwhile, trim any excess fat off the chicken. If using chicken breasts, cut each breast into 2-3 large, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Slow Cooker Method: If you started sautéing in a separate pan, carefully scrape every bit of the contents from the pan into the slow cooker. Add the trimmed chicken, the drained and rinsed pinto beans, the undrained frozen corn (or canned corn), the uncooked but thoroughly rinsed quinoa (see Note 5), 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, and the 2 bay leaves. Pour the 5 cups of chicken stock over everything and mix gently to combine. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily, and the quinoa has cooked and “popped.” *Important Note: The longer it cooks, the more liquid the quinoa absorbs, which is why I don’t recommend cooking on low for extended periods – see Note 6.*
4. Instant Pot Method: Turn off the Sauté function. Add the trimmed chicken, drained and rinsed pinto beans, undrained frozen corn (or canned corn), uncooked but thoroughly rinsed quinoa (see Note 5), 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice, and the 2 bay leaves. Pour the 5 cups of chicken stock over everything and mix well. Secure the lid, set the valve to “Sealed,” and cook on Manual (or Pressure Cook) for 10 minutes. Allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 7 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”
5. Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker or pressure cooker. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste the soup and season if needed with additional salt and pepper – the flavors should be vibrant and well-balanced!
6. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy topped with your favorite garnishes, such as freshly shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, or a dollop of sour cream (I often use low-fat versions).

Recipe Notes

Note 1 – Chicken Choice: For the most tender and flavorful results, I definitely prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs; the meat stays much more succulent and rich. That said, chicken breasts work well too. If using breasts, ensure they are cut into smaller, more uniform pieces so they cook thoroughly and evenly.

Note 2 – Cajun Seasoning: I typically use McCormick Cajun seasoning, which tends to be a bit milder in heat compared to other brands. Please scale the amount up or down according to your preference for spice and the specific brand you are using. Remember that many Cajun seasonings already contain salt, so you might need less additional salt in the overall recipe.

Note 3 – Optional Toppings: Elevate your soup experience with delicious toppings such as freshly grated sharp Cheddar cheese, a dollop of low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and fresh herbs like cilantro (or parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro), diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips.

Note 4 – The Power of Sautéing: The initial quick sauté of the vegetables with tomato paste and spices adds an incredible depth of flavor and richness to the soup. It also ensures that the vegetables are perfectly tender by the time the chicken and quinoa are cooked. If you opt to skip this sauté step, you might want to add a bit more seasoning to compensate for the lost depth, and ensure your carrots, onion, and celery are very finely diced. If omitting the sauté, simply add all those ingredients directly to the slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Note 5 – Rinsing Quinoa: Quinoa has a naturally occurring bitter coating called saponin, which needs to be removed before cooking to ensure the best taste. Many commercially packaged quinoas are pre-rinsed, so check your package. If not, place the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold water until the water runs completely clear. This simple step makes a significant difference in flavor!

Note 6 – Quinoa & Liquid Absorption: Quinoa will continue to absorb liquid as long as it’s present! When cooking this soup on a prolonged low setting or even as leftovers in the Instant Pot, the quinoa can absorb more liquid, making the soup considerably thicker, almost like a stew (which is still incredibly tasty!). If you prefer a thinner soup, simply stir through some additional warm chicken stock or broth (to individual bowls or the pot) at serving or reheating time to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition Note: The caloric and nutritional values provided are approximations. These figures will vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and any optional toppings you choose to add to your soup. The current calculations are for the soup without any additional toppings.

Storage & Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature before storing leftovers. Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Unfortunately, soups containing quinoa don’t tend to retain their optimal texture after freezing, thawing, and reheating; the quinoa can become quite soft and mushy, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or from refrigeration.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving
| Calories: 220kcal
| Carbohydrates: 23.5g
| Protein: 17.2g
| Fat: 7.2g
| Cholesterol: 56.4mg
| Sodium: 661.4mg
| Fiber: 4.6g
| Sugar: 7.9g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so it should only be used as an approximation and is not a substitute for professional nutritional advice.

Quinoa Soup FAQs

We sincerely hope this comprehensive guide inspires and empowers you to create your very own unforgettable bowl of Healthy Chicken Quinoa Soup. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a nourishing embrace, a testament to comforting flavors, and a truly wholesome delight, made effortlessly for any day of the week.