As the temperatures drop and winter sets in, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken soup to soothe the soul. Not only is it a classic comfort food, but it’s also incredibly versatile – and with a focus on using healthier ingredients and spices, you can create a variety of delicious and nutritious recipes that will keep you feeling cozy and protected from the cold. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering and immunity-boosting chicken soup recipes that incorporate everything from citrusy twists to international flavors. From classic lemon garlic to spicy turmeric and kale, there’s something for everyone in this roundup of healthy and hearty soups.
Classic Lemon Garlic Chicken Soup
This comforting soup combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of garlic and chicken to create a delightful, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the garlic in a little bit of oil until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using).
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turmeric Chicken and Kale Soup
This comforting soup combines the warmth of turmeric with the creaminess of coconut milk, making it a perfect remedy for a chilly day. With a kick from red pepper flakes, this spicy twist on traditional chicken noodle soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Stir in turmeric, red pepper flakes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in coconut milk and kale. Simmer an additional 5-7 minutes or until kale is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Creamy Coconut Chicken and Vegetable Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of coconut milk with the savory taste of chicken and a variety of vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, quinoa, chicken broth, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and canned tomatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Asian-Inspired Ginger Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the warmth of ginger with the tender bite of chicken, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a pick-me-up when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 oz noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, ginger, broth, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Mexico with the creaminess of avocado, served in a crispy tortilla bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
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; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble soup bowls by ladling soup into tortilla bowls and topping with sliced avocado. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Chicken and Rice Soup
This classic Greek soup is a staple of comfort food, made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a tangy lemon broth. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a dollop of creamy yogurt for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Yogurt, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add the chicken, broth, rice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and egg yolk. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Soup
This hearty and aromatic soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, combining the rich flavors of chicken, chickpeas, and spices with the warmth of cumin and coriander.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic, and spices; cook until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the chicken, chickpeas, broth, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup combines the flavors of Thailand with the warmth of chicken and coconut milk. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until the onions are translucent.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with fish sauce (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Detoxifying Chicken and Vegetable Soup
This nourishing soup is packed with antioxidants and fiber-rich vegetables, making it the perfect remedy to flush out toxins and rejuvenate your body. With lean chicken and gentle spices, this recipe is a delicious way to support overall health and well-being.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and collard)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little water until cooked through.
2. Add the carrots, celery, and mixed greens; cook until tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Zoodle Soup
Soothe your soul with this comforting and low-carb twist on traditional chicken noodle soup. This recipe replaces traditional noodles with zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a healthier, flavorful option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, zucchinis, Parmesan cheese, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening, filled with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and herbs. With minimal effort, you can create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken breast or thighs (bone-in)
– 2-3 cloves of garlic
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the garlic by wrapping it in foil and baking for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until tender.
4. Add the roasted garlic, chicken broth, and mixed herbs to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Chicken and Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and earthy mushrooms in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the mushrooms in 2 tbsp of oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, cooking until browned on all sides.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup with Spinach
A refreshing and flavorful soup perfect for a light meal or as a comforting pick-me-up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little oil until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then cook the garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper for 1 minute.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until wilted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Lentil Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, lentils, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pressure release)
Carrot Ginger Chicken Soup with Turmeric
This vibrant and comforting soup combines the natural sweetness of carrots, the spiciness of ginger, and the warmth of turmeric for a truly nourishing meal. Perfect for a chilly day or as a gentle pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and sliced ginger in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, chicken broth, turmeric, and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before blending or pureeing to desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Barley Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of chicken, barley, and a variety of vegetables creates a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, cooking until browned on all sides.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, barley, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Italy with a hint of creamy richness. Serve as a comforting meal or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add beans, broth, pesto sauce, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot. Garnish with basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Pho-Inspired Noodle Soup
A twist on the classic Vietnamese dish, this hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With tender chicken, noodles, and aromatics, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, heat 2 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, cinnamon, and cumin to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat with the flavors.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup has reached a simmer.
7. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Soup
Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo Soup: A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo, all tied together with the brightness of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, vegetables, and orzo in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, white wine (if using), oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to boost your immunity with these delicious and healthy chicken soup recipes! In this collection, you’ll find 20 mouth-watering options that are sure to please. From classic flavors like Lemon Garlic Chicken Soup to international inspirations like Moroccan Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Soup, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a comforting slow cooker option or a quick Instant Pot recipe, these soups are packed with nutritious ingredients and flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or a lunchtime pick-me-up, these recipes will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.