This Detox Chicken Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and fresh herbs, it’s both healthy and tasty.
Making this soup is fun! Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen. Perfect for a cozy night! 🥣
I love how it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and veggies. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can whip it up any night for a healthy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing and adds healthy fats. You can use avocado oil or coconut oil if you prefer a different flavor or need a higher smoke point.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium helps you control the saltiness. If you want a vegan option, use vegetable broth instead; it’ll still be tasty!
Shredded Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken makes the recipe quicker and easier. You can swap it for cooked chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Kale: Kale is packed with nutrients, but spinach is a great substitute! Just add it in for the last few minutes so it doesn’t wilt too much.
Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme and oregano lend great flavor. Feel free to add fresh herbs if you have them available. Rosemary or basil also work well!
How Do I Cook Vegetables for the Best Flavor?
Cooking veggies correctly can make a big difference! Start by stirring them in the oil until they soften. This helps release their natural flavors.
- Heat oil over medium heat, then add onions first for a few minutes.
- Add garlic, carrots, and celery next; stir frequently for even cooking.
- Let them soften for about 5 minutes before adding broth. This builds a solid flavor base for your soup!
Remember, patience is key! The more you let them sauté, the better the taste in your soup. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Detox Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or poached)
- 2 cups chopped kale, tough stems removed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: juice of 1/2 a lemon for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and around 20-25 minutes for cooking, for a total of about 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick, healthy meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Ingredients:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take around 3-5 minutes. This step builds a nice flavor base for your soup!
2. Add More Veggies:
Next, add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the vegetables get even softer and enhances their natural sweetness.
3. Bring in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the soup starts to come together beautifully!
4. Add the Chicken and Kale:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded chicken, chopped kale, dried thyme, oregano, turmeric, ground black pepper, and salt. Stir everything well so all the ingredients are combined.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Let your soup simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste your soup. If it needs more flavor, feel free to add more salt or pepper to your liking. If you want a little zing, stir in the lemon juice at this stage.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot and enjoy your nourishing detox chicken soup!
This soup is packed with nutrients and is perfect for a cozy meal, offering a healthy dose of protein, vitamins, and delicious flavors. Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by replacing the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It’ll still be delicious and nutritious!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth if the soup thickens.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables you choose.
