Optavia Chicken Soup recipe

Optavia Chicken Soup is made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, low sodium chicken broth, Stacey Hawkins Phoenix Sunrise Seasoning, diced tomatoes, shredded cabbage, chopped zucchini or yellow squash, and reduced fat cheddar cheese. This hearty Optavia Chicken Soup recipe creates a satisfying dinner that takes about 4 to 8 hours to prepare (depending on slow cooker setting) and can serve up to 4 people.

Optavia Chicken Soup Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (preferably of similar size for even cooking)
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon (1 capful) Stacey Hawkins Phoenix Sunrise Seasoning (or substitute with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder)
• 1 can (approximately 16 oz or 2 cups) diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 cups chopped zucchini or yellow squash
• 8 tablespoons (1/2 cup) reduced fat cheddar cheese, shredded
• Condiments of choice (add calories or counts separately)

Optavia Chicken Soup Instructions

1. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crock pot or slow cooker.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken broth, seasoning, and vegetables. Stir well.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours.
4. Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them in a bowl. Use two forks to shred the chicken.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the soup.
6. Divide the soup among 4 serving bowls. Top each bowl with 2 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese and any additional garnishes of your choice.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Add Aromatics Early: Sauté onions, garlic, and celery before adding them to the slow cooker. This can enhance their flavor and provide a richer base for your soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste the soup about halfway through the cooking time. Adjust seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
• Boost Tomato Flavor: If you prefer a richer tomato flavor, add a small amount of tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes.

How To Store Optavia Chicken Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Optavia Chicken Soup

On the Stove: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes.

In the Microwave: Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

In the Slow Cooker: Transfer the soup to a slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until it’s hot throughout. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

What To Serve Optavia Chicken Soup

Optavia Chicken Soup pairs well with crusty whole-grain bread, fresh green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, and steamed broccoli. It also can be served alongside a side of quinoa, grilled asparagus, garlic breadsticks, and a fruit salad for better savoring of the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts. They will add a slightly different flavor and texture but will still work well in the soup.

Can I make this soup in a stovetop pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the soup on the stovetop. Simply combine all ingredients in a large pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?

Frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh. Just be sure to add them directly to the slow cooker without thawing them first.

Try more recipes:

• Andersen’s Pea Soup Recipe
• Chinese Pork Noodle Soup Recipe
• French Duck Soup Recipe