Savory Vermicelli Chicken Soup
Warm up with this delightful Savory Vermicelli Chicken Soup, a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This hearty yet light clear soup combines tender vermicelli noodles with shredded chicken and a flavorful salsa that adds a zesty twist. It's simple to prepare and makes a generous batch that’s ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Packed with flavor, this dish is not only satisfying but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Vegetable Oil
1 tablespoon (none)
Vermicelli
8 ounces (broken into pieces (fideo))
Chicken Broth
43 ounces (none)
Water
2 cups (none)
Salsa
16 ounces (none)
Cooked Chicken Breast
1/2 lb (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2
Add the broken vermicelli pieces to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma.
3
Pour in the chicken broth, water, and salsa, stirring to combine. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the vermicelli is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
5
Finally, stir in the chopped cooked chicken and heat through for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is warm and well mixed.
6
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Vermicelli Chicken Soup?
It is a comforting, hearty yet light clear soup that combines tender vermicelli noodles with shredded chicken and a zesty salsa.
What type of noodles are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of vermicelli broken into small pieces, often referred to as fideo.
Why do I need to sauté the vermicelli?
Sautéing the vermicelli in oil for 3-4 minutes allows it to turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma which enhances the soup's flavor.
What kind of oil should I use for sautéing?
The recipe specifies using 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
How much chicken broth is required?
You will need 43 ounces of chicken broth for the base of the soup.
Do I need to add water to the soup?
Yes, 2 cups of water are added along with the chicken broth and salsa.
What role does salsa play in this soup?
Salsa is used to provide a zesty twist and add depth of flavor to the broth.
How much salsa is needed?
The recipe requires 16 ounces of salsa.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 lb of cooked chicken breast that has been chopped.
How long does it take to simmer the soup?
The soup should simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes once it has reached a boil.
When should I add the chicken to the pot?
Add the chopped cooked chicken at the very end and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
Should the soup be simmered covered or uncovered?
The instructions specify simmering the mixture uncovered.
Is this soup suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it makes a generous batch that is ideal for feeding a crowd or for meal prep leftovers.
What is the texture of the vermicelli in this soup?
The vermicelli becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the broth, salsa, and chicken.
Can I garnish this soup?
Yes, it is recommended to serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: vegetable oil, vermicelli, chicken broth, water, salsa, and cooked chicken breast.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, with a simmering time of only 15 minutes and the use of pre-cooked chicken, it is a very fast recipe.
What heat setting should I use for sautéing the noodles?
The noodles should be sautéed over medium heat.
What does the term 'fideo' refer to in this recipe?
Fideo refers to the vermicelli noodles when they are broken into small pieces before cooking.
Is this a clear soup or a creamy soup?
This is a clear soup, though the salsa adds some color and texture to the broth.
Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for cooked chicken breast, so if using raw chicken, ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
What makes this soup nourishing?
It is packed with protein from the chicken and satisfying carbohydrates from the vermicelli, making it a well-rounded meal.
How do I know when the vermicelli is done?
The vermicelli is done when it is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the liquid.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
While the recipe provides specific measurements, you can add a little extra broth or water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Is the salsa flavor overwhelming?
No, it is meant to provide a zesty twist that complements the savory chicken broth.
What category of food does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as comfort food, home cooking, and a quick meal.
How do I ensure the noodles don't burn?
Stir the vermicelli constantly while sautéing for the first 3-4 minutes until golden.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice for the pre-cooked chopped chicken breast required.
How do I start the cooking process?
Start by heating vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
What temperature should the soup be served at?
The soup is best served hot immediately after the chicken has been heated through.