Easy Healing Chicken Soup is more than just a meal—it’s medicine in a bowl. Warm, soothing, and packed with immune-supporting ingredients, this homemade soup blends tender shredded chicken, fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving cozy comfort, this simple, wholesome recipe delivers nourishment, flavor, and love in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 1 cup cooked rice or egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth
- Pour in chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Rice
- Add shredded chicken and cooked rice (or noodles) to the pot.
- Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is warmed through and well combined.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Herbs
- Remove bay leaf and stir in lemon juice for brightness, if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Variations
- Use quinoa or barley instead of rice for a nutrient boost.
- Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
- Swap in bone broth for deeper flavor and extra healing benefits.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
Cooking Note
- Don’t rush the simmer—the slow melding of flavors makes all the difference.
- Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust salt and lemon to your personal taste for the perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a slice of crusty bread or warm biscuits for the perfect cozy meal. A side of roasted vegetables or a small green salad also pairs beautifully for a wholesome dinner.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat. For freezing, cool completely and store without rice or noodles (add them fresh when reheating to maintain texture).
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: Approx. 280
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 640mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Add more veggies like zucchini or peas for a nutrition boost. Reduce oil or use an oil spray to lighten up the base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the vegetables—keep them slightly firm for texture.
- Adding too much lemon—start small and adjust gradually.
- Skipping the herbs—they bring life to the broth.
- Reheating on high heat—keep it low to preserve flavor and tenderness.
Conclusion
Easy Healing Chicken Soup is the kind of recipe that feeds both body and soul. Light yet deeply satisfying, this comforting bowl is ideal for sick days, self-care nights, or when you simply crave something warm and nourishing. It’s proof that the simplest meals are often the most healing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use uncooked chicken?
A: Yes, simmer raw chicken in the broth for about 20 minutes, then shred it before continuing the recipe.
Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely—cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, then add rice near the end.
Q3: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: This recipe is naturally dairy-free—just avoid adding creamy finishes like yogurt.
Q4: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, but freeze without rice or noodles to keep the texture fresh when reheating.
Easy Healing Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Easy Healing Chicken Soup is a cozy, nourishing bowl of comfort made with simple ingredients that soothe and restore body and soul.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
2 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
1 cup cooked rice or egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté 5–6 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
3. Pour in chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes.
4. Add shredded chicken and cooked rice (or noodles). Simmer another 5–10 minutes until warmed through.
5. Remove bay leaf, stir in lemon juice, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Skip the lemon for a milder, classic flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg