As the seasons change and the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken soup to soothe the soul. And what better way to make that happen than by using up leftover chicken? In this article, we’ll explore 18 deliciously comforting leftover chicken soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic homestyle chicken noodle soup to spicy Thai coconut chicken soup and everything in between, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your leftovers. So go ahead, dig out those containers of cooked chicken and let the soup-making magic begin!
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend (wild rice, brown rice, and white rice)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, then set aside.
3. Add the wild rice blend, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and spicy soup that combines the richness of coconut milk, the comfort of chicken, and the bold flavors of Thailand.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of homestyle cooking, perfect for a cold day or when you need a pick-me-up. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich broth, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the noodles and continue to cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the rich flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a warm tortilla. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Cut tortillas into strips and add them to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until tortillas are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Soup
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Soup Recipe
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful soup, packed with chicken, orzo, and a zesty lemon-garlic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and onion. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Return chicken to pot; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Stir in orzo pasta; cook according to package instructions.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of curried chicken and vegetable soup, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. 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. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth to create a warm and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups dumpling mixture (see below)
Dumpling Mixture:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup shortening or butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the garlic, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix the dumpling ingredients in a bowl. Drop by spoonfuls onto the surface of the soup.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup Recipe
Avgolemono, a traditional Greek soup, combines tender chicken, lemony brightness, and creamy rice to create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a classic adaptation of the original, simplified for easy preparation.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, water, and rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot.
3. Stir in lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chicken Corn Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in flour to coat the chicken and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
7. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
8. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian Ginger Chicken Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and nourishing Asian-inspired soup, perfect for a comforting meal or soothing remedy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, ginger, broth, water, soy sauce, brown sugar, and white pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of chicken, spinach, and cheese-filled tortellini, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy broth. A warm and satisfying meal for 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 cup frozen spinach
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add spinach to pot and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
5. Return chicken to pot and stir in tortellini. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted and sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup
Fresh and flavorful, this Tomato Basil Chicken Soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty barley, all simmered in a rich and flavorful broth. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the chicken, barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
This hearty gumbo combines the bold flavors of Cajun country with tender chicken, spicy sausage, and a rich, dark roux. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is packed with protein-rich chicken, nutritious quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any time of day. With its mild flavor and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water or broth, quinoa, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until quinoa is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup
Cozy up with a warm and creamy bowl of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup, perfect for a comforting meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (reserve remaining cheese).
5. Simmer soup for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
6. Serve hot, topped with remaining cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on the classic chicken pot pie, with all the flavors and textures you love, but without the crust. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas and corn)
– 1 tsp 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 chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Lentil Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting Moroccan-inspired soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. This hearty recipe combines the tender flavors of chicken and lentils with the warmth of Moroccan spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken, lentils, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover chicken and turn it into a deliciously comforting soup! This article shares 18 hearty recipe ideas to make your mealtime shine. From creamy classics like Chicken Noodle Soup, to spicy twists like Thai Coconut Chicken Soup, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to transform chicken into a rich Wild Rice Soup, or add some Mediterranean flair with Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and zesty or comforting and indulgent, these recipes are sure to warm your heart and belly.