As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm and nourishing bowl of chicken soup to soothe your soul. But what if you could have that comfort food without sacrificing your health goals? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 20 deliciously comforting and remarkably healthy chicken soup recipes that are sure to boost your immunity and satisfy your cravings.
From classic lemon garlic flavors to spicy turmeric twists, our collection features a wide range of international-inspired soups that incorporate wholesome ingredients like quinoa, kale, coconut milk, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something slow-cooked or quick and easy, we’ve got you covered with these simple yet satisfying recipes.
So go ahead, grab a spoon, and let’s dive into the world of comforting healthy chicken soups that will keep you cozy all season long!
Classic Lemon Garlic Chicken Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup, infused with the tanginess of lemon and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add the onion and carrots; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turmeric Chicken and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of chicken and kale with the invigorating spice of turmeric, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The creamy coconut milk adds a rich and velvety texture that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, add kale, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Soup
This comforting soup recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with juicy chicken and a medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, quinoa, broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper, if desired.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of quinoa, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Coconut Chicken and Vegetable Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, chicken broth, and curry powder.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Asian-Inspired Ginger Chicken Noodle Soup
This hearty soup combines the warmth of ginger with the comfort of chicken and noodles, perfect for a cozy night in. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked noodles (such as soba or udon)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, garlic, and ginger in sesame oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the cooked noodles and soy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup with Avocado
Warm up with this flavorful soup that combines the richness of chicken, spices, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and tortilla strips. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in diced avocado just before serving.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
A classic Greek comfort food, this creamy soup is a staple of traditional cuisine. Rich and flavorful, it’s made with chicken, vegetables, and a hint of lemon.
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 heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (for egg yolks)
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
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 chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the soup is heated through.
3. Stir in the beaten egg yolks. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the soup thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Detoxifying Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Boost your immune system and flush out toxins with this nutritious soup recipe, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from a variety of vegetables. This comforting and flavorful soup is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chicken, potatoes, mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Chickpea Soup
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Chickpea Soup: A flavorful and aromatic soup that combines the warmth of North African spices with the comforting simplicity of chicken and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric.
5. Add the chicken breast or thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the chickpeas, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Low-Carb Chicken Zoodle Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go! This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and zucchini noodles (zoodles) in a low-carb and delicious way.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the zucchinis in a spiralizer or use a vegetable peeler to create zoodles.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the zoodles and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender but still slightly crunchy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Thai-inspired soup that combines the richness of coconut milk, the spice of curry, and the tender bite of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth, coconut milk, water or broth, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This Instant Pot recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich, savory broth. It’s an ideal comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice (such as brown, red, and white)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chicken, wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and add frozen peas and carrots. Stir to combine and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Roasted Garlic Chicken and Spinach Soup
Roasted Garlic Chicken and Spinach Soup: A Rich and Creamy Comfort Food
This hearty soup combines the flavors of roasted garlic with tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy coconut milk for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chicken, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl until coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted chicken mixture, vegetable broth, spinach, and coconut milk to the pot.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Chicken Miso Soup with Shiitake Mushrooms
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of miso paste, savory chicken, and earthy shiitake mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery, green onions)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little oil until cooked through.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, chicken broth, miso paste, mushrooms, garlic, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Barley Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of chicken, barley, and herbs with a hint of lemon zest, making it a perfect cold-weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, parsley)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the chicken, mixed herbs, chicken broth, barley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup with Kale
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients, featuring tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and kale. With its creamy base and hint of spices, it’s sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in butter until cooked through.
2. Add sweet potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in kale leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup with White Beans
This hearty soup combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic basil, all wrapped up with creamy white beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 4 sprigs of fresh basil, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
8. Stir in the cannellini beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Pho-Inspired Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of chicken pho-inspired noodle soup, packed with aromatic flavors and textures. This recipe combines the classic Vietnamese dish with familiar Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 star anise pod
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, ginger, star anise, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, and brown sugar.
5. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
6. Divide noodles among bowls, topped with hot soup and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chicken and Lentil Soup with Turmeric
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food on a chilly day. The combination of tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and the vibrant yellow hue from turmeric will surely lift your spirits.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the lentils, broth, turmeric, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, featuring tender chicken, nutty orzo, and an abundance of aromatic herbs. With its rich broth and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add orzo, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Simmer soup for an additional 15-20 minutes or until orzo is tender and chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Stay warm and healthy this season with these 20 comforting chicken soup recipes! From classic lemon garlic to spicy turmeric and kale, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy slow cooker meal or a hearty, filling soup to warm your belly, we’ve got you covered. With a range of international flavors and ingredients, from coconut milk to ginger and avocado, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and cozy up with a bowl of goodness!
