When the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to cozy up with. And what better way to do so than with a delicious and satisfying chicken-based recipe? Chicken is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and when combined with fresh herbs, it can create some truly mouthwatering dishes. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 hearty soup recipes that feature chicken as the star of the show. From creamy wild rice soups to spicy Thai coconut curries, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or an international twist, these recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made with chicken, wild rice, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, and frozen vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
This spicy and creamy soup is a perfect blend of Thai flavors, with the richness of coconut milk and the heat of chili peppers. Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chili flakes or sliced jalapeños for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken and mixed vegetables in a little oil until cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, coconut milk, curry paste, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chili flakes or sliced jalapeños if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade Classic Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1/2 cup uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until browned.
2. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the egg noodles and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of citrusy brightness, savory chicken, and comforting orzo. With its zesty lemon flavor and hint of garlic, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add orzo, broth, water, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and comforting Mexican-inspired soup, packed with tender chicken, crispy tortillas, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Shredded cheese, for serving (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, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add tortilla strips to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, cover, and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture onto the soup surface.
7. Cover and cook an additional 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, cream, tomato paste, and basil. Stir to combine.
4. Return chicken to pot and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, potatoes, corn kernels, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in butter until melted. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
A classic Greek comfort soup, Avgolemono Chicken Soup combines the warm flavors of chicken, rice, and lemon with a hint of nostalgia. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and celery; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, chicken, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, corn)
– 1 cup quinoa
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, quinoa, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Chicken Lentil Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and nutritious Curried Chicken Lentil Soup, perfect for a cozy evening or as a healthy lunch option. This comforting bowl of goodness combines the creaminess of lentils with the spiciness of curry powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Wild Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of wild mushrooms with tender chicken, simmered in a creamy broth perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this comforting soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup! This creamy and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and melted cheese.
Chicken Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Pho is Vietnam’s national noodle soup dish, typically made with slow-cooked chicken or beef broth, rice noodles, and various toppings. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, featuring tender chicken and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, ginger, onion, garlic, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cumin.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the pho by placing noodles in a bowl, followed by sliced chicken and garnishing with herbs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Barley Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the rich taste of chicken with the nutty goodness of barley, making it a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water, barley, carrots, celery, onion, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the barley is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup combines the best of chicken pot pie with the ease of a quick-to-make meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up during a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 tbsp frozen puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir until heated through.
6. Roll out puff pastry and place on top of soup. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of chicken and cream with the sweetness of spinach and tortellini. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, spinach, and tortellini. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Chicken Harira Soup
Harira, a traditional Moroccan soup, is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, tomatoes, and spices to create a comforting and aromatic soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions 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 diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Miso Soup with Udon Noodles
This Japanese-inspired soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any time of the year. Rich and savory, it’s made with chicken, miso paste, and udon noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces udon noodles
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, vegetable broth, miso paste, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add udon noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these delicious and hearty soup recipes featuring chicken and fresh herbs. From classic Chicken Noodle Soup to exotic Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup, there’s something for every taste. Try Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup, or Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup for a flavorful twist on traditional soups. And don’t miss the unique options like Curried Chicken Lentil Soup, Moroccan Chicken Harira Soup, and Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or an international culinary adventure, these 20 soup recipes are sure to please.
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