When the school year starts, busy nights can become a norm. Juggling after-school activities, homework, and the endless to-do list can leave little time for meal preparation. Enter Tamron Hall’s One-Pot Chicken Soup-ish—an easy, comforting recipe that’s perfect for these hectic evenings. This delicious dish combines the simplicity of a soup with the heartiness of a stew, making it a family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and stress-free.
Why Choose Tamron Hall’s Chicken Soup-ish?
Tamron Hall, the Emmy-award-winning television host and author, understands the demands of a busy household. Her new cookbook, A Confident Cook: Recipes for Happy, Relaxed Fun in the Kitchen, is designed with busy families in mind. This cookbook, co-authored with Lish Steiling, features beginner-friendly recipes that help make meal preparation less stressful.
The Chicken Soup-ish recipe stands out for several reasons:
- One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup is required, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Balanced Nutrition: Combines lean chicken, vegetables, and spinach for a well-rounded meal.
- Comforting Flavor: The dish is rich and flavorful, thanks to the use of chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice.
Let’s dive into the details of how to make this easy and delicious meal.
Ingredients
To make Tamron Hall’s Chicken Soup-ish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons, plus more to finish | For cooking and drizzling |
| Onion | 1, cut into ⅓-inch pieces | Adds flavor and aroma |
| Carrot | 1 large, cut into ⅓-inch pieces | Provides sweetness and texture |
| Celery rib | 1, cut into ⅓-inch pieces | Adds crunch and flavor |
| Garlic cloves | 2, chopped | Enhances overall flavor |
| Kosher salt | 1½ teaspoons, divided | For seasoning |
| Calabrian chili paste or red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon or ¼ teaspoon | Adds a touch of heat |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 3 cups | Base of the soup |
| Water | 2 cups | To adjust the soup’s consistency |
| Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese rib | 1 (3-inch), optional | Adds richness and depth of flavor |
| Short-grain rice (e.g., Arborio) | ¾ cup | Absorbs flavors and thickens the soup |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 (about ¾ pound) | Main protein source |
| Baby spinach | 2 cups, coarsely chopped | Adds a fresh, green element |
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 1 tablespoon (from half a lemon) | Adds brightness and acidity |
| Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese | To finish | For garnish |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare Tamron Hall’s Chicken Soup-ish:
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Heat the Oil:
- Heat a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and allow it to heat for 30 seconds until it moves freely in the pan.
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Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to the hot oil.
- Season with ½ teaspoon of salt.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Add Spices and Liquids:
- Stir in the Calabrian chili paste (or red pepper flakes if using).
- Add the chicken broth, water, Parmesan cheese rind (if using), and short-grain rice.
- Stir to combine and season with the remaining teaspoon of salt.
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Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.
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Finish the Dish:
- Remove and discard the Parmesan rind.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate, cut into bite-sized pieces, and return to the pot.
- Stir in the spinach until it’s wilted.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips for Success
- Rice Cooking: Short-grain rice, like Arborio, is ideal because it absorbs flavors well and helps thicken the soup. Avoid using long-grain rice, as it can become too soft and mushy.
- Chicken Preparation: For more flavor, consider seasoning the chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper before adding them to the pot.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might also want to add extra protein like chickpeas or tofu.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I use brown rice instead of short-grain rice?
Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and be prepared for a chewier texture.
What can I serve with this soup?
This one-pot chicken soup-ish is a complete meal on its own. However, you might consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for added variety.
Comparison Table: Tamron Hall’s Chicken Soup-ish vs. Traditional Chicken Soup
| Feature | Tamron Hall’s Chicken Soup-ish | Traditional Chicken Soup |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes | 1-1.5 hours |
| Cooking Method | One-pot | Typically multiple pots |
| Main Ingredients | Chicken breasts, short-grain rice, vegetables, spinach | Chicken (often with noodles), vegetables |
| Broth Base | Chicken broth and water | Chicken broth |
| Texture | Thick, stew-like | Brothier, with noodles or rice |
| Flavor Enhancers | Parmesan cheese, lemon juice | Herbs, spices |
| Dish Type | Cross between soup and stew | Traditional soup |
Conclusion
Tamron Hall’s One-Pot Chicken Soup-ish is a fantastic addition to any busy family’s recipe collection. Its simplicity, ease of preparation, and comforting flavors make it an ideal choice for those hectic school nights when you need a quick, nutritious meal. With its one-pot convenience, rich taste, and the added benefit of being beginner-friendly, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe provides a straightforward way to bring a bit of comfort and warmth to your dinner table. Embrace the convenience and deliciousness of Tamron Hall’s Chicken Soup-ish and make your busy evenings a little bit easier.
