As the weather cools down, a warm and comforting bowl of chicken soup is just what you need to nurse your body back to health. But why settle for an ordinary, bland recipe when you can have one that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and immunity-boosting ingredients? In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering and healthy chicken soup recipes that are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a main course for dinner. From classic flavors to international twists, these soups incorporate a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetables to create a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Classic Lemon Ginger Chicken Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of citrusy lemon and spicy ginger, with tender chicken and vegetables. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a healthy pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, lemon juice, and grated ginger to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove the soup from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turmeric Coconut Chicken Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with the creamy richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Kale and Quinoa Chicken Soup
Spicy Kale and Quinoa Chicken Soup Recipe
Warm up with this nutritious and flavorful soup that combines the spiciness of red pepper flakes, the earthiness of kale, and the nuttiness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
2. Add quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well.
3. Simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Stir in kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a pick-me-up during the week. The slow cooker does all the work, melding together flavors of garlic, herbs, and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
2. Pour in chicken broth and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove bay leaf before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Asian-Inspired Bok Choy Chicken Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this flavorful and nutritious soup, featuring tender chicken, crisp bok choy, and aromatic Asian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken, broth, water, ginger, and soy sauce.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in chopped bok choy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Chicken Soup
A flavorful and aromatic soup that combines the richness of chicken with the comforting warmth of chickpeas, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chickpeas, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Sodium Vegetable Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, packed with nutritious vegetables and lean chicken, all while keeping sodium levels in check.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt-free seasoning blend to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and thyme.
4. Season with salt-free seasoning blend to taste.
5. Simmer an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Greece with this comforting soup recipe that combines tender chicken, velvety lemon sauce, and a hint of egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, rice, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and beaten egg until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Lime and Cilantro Chicken Soup
This vibrant soup combines the brightness of lime juice with the freshness of cilantro, perfectly balanced to warm your senses. A perfect blend of zesty and comforting.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, jalapeño, and chicken; cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, lime juice, and cilantro. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Detoxifying Green Chicken Soup
This refreshing soup is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that will help flush out toxins and leave you feeling light and revitalized. A perfect remedy for a sluggish day or a post-holiday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed greens (kale, spinach, collard)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the mixed greens, celery, green bell pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Chicken Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the creaminess of cauliflower with the richness of chicken, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chicken broth, cauliflower, and cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Thai-inspired soup, featuring tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk, broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Mushroom Chicken Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of roasted garlic and mushroom chicken soup, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic by wrapping it in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and mushrooms in remaining olive oil over medium heat until softened.
4. Add chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add roasted garlic, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Soup
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken soup, this recipe combines the comfort of a warm broth with the added nutritional benefits of zucchini noodles and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles (or substitute with zucchini noodles)
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Bring chicken broth to a boil, then reduce heat and add chopped onion and minced garlic. Simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add chicken to the pot and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Spiralize zucchinis into noodle-like strands. Add noodles to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Protein-Packed Lentil Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich chicken and lentils, packed with nutritious vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a comforting addition to your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of olive oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return to the pot and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fire-Roasted Tomato Chicken Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup, featuring roasted tomatoes and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Herbed White Bean and Chicken Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of white beans, chicken, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add the browned chicken back into the pot, along with the cannellini beans.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Carrot Ginger Chicken Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this nourishing and flavorful soup, infused with the sweetness of carrots and the zing of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little oil until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then cook the chopped carrots and grated ginger until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
4. Shred the cooked chicken and add it back into the pot.
5. If using heavy cream, stir it in just before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and Orzo Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients, making it an ideal comfort food for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, orzo pasta, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple Cider Vinegar Chicken Soup
Soften up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup, infused with the tanginess of apple cider vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover the power of chicken soup with these 20 delicious and healthy recipes! Boost your immunity with classic flavors like Lemon Ginger Chicken Soup or try international twists like Moroccan Chickpea and Chicken Soup. Whether you’re looking for a spicy kick from Spicy Kale and Quinoa Chicken Soup or a comforting bowl of Low-Sodium Vegetable Chicken Soup, there’s something for everyone. From slow cooker recipes to quick-cooking wonders, these soups are sure to warm your heart and soul.
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