Name: Healing Chicken Soup with Turmeric & Ginger
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1-2 TBSP olive oil (For sautéing); 1-1.5 lb chicken tenderloins (Boneless and skinless); 1 small yellow onion, diced (Or white/red onion); 1 large carrot, thinly sliced (About 2 cups); 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced (About 2 cups); 3 cups chopped kale, ribs removed (Can swap for other greens); 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 TBSP freshly grated ginger; 1 TBSP Italian seasoning; 1 TBSP turmeric (For anti-inflammatory properties); 1/8-1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (Adjust to taste for heat); 8 cups chicken broth (Bone broth for more health benefits); 1 large lemon, zested and juiced

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There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken soup to soothe the soul, and this Healing Chicken Soup with Turmeric & Ginger does just that, while packing an anti-inflammatory punch. I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly chilly week, craving both comfort and nutrition. With immune-boosting ingredients like ginger and turmeric, this dish has become my go-to whenever I seek warmth and wellness. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a restorative lunch, it’s a quick yet nourishing meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

Reasons to try it

Why you’ll love this dish

You might find yourself falling for this chicken soup not just because it’s packed with flavor but also because of its health benefits. The combination of turmeric and ginger not only adds warmth and spice but also boasts powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an excellent choice after a long day, during flu season, or just whenever you need a little extra comfort.

It’s budget-friendly and can easily be made using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be made in advance and stored, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

"This soup is like a hug in a bowl. The flavors are incredible, and I love that I’m nourishing my body while indulging my taste buds!"

Preparing Healing Chicken Soup With Turmeric & Ginger

Step-by-step overview

Creating this beautiful soup is a straightforward process. Start by chopping your vegetables and seasoning the chicken. Then, you’ll sauté everything together before adding the stock and letting it simmer to perfection. Not only is it easy to follow, but it also fills your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that will have everyone gathering around the dinner table.

What you’ll need

Gather these items to create your Healing Chicken Soup:

1-2 TBSP olive oil
1-1.5 lb chicken tenderloins
1 yellow onion, diced (or white/red onion)
1 large carrot, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
2 ribs of celery, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
3 cups chopped kale, ribs removed
4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
1 TBSP freshly grated ginger
Sea salt and cracked pepper, to taste
1 TBSP Italian seasoning
1 TBSP turmeric
1/8-1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
8 cups chicken broth (bone broth for more health benefits)
1 large lemon, zested and juiced

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences!

Directions to follow

Prep the ingredients: Chop all your vegetables to maximize efficiency, and season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
Sauté the chicken: In a Dutch oven or stock pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place the chicken into the pot and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160-165ºF, flipping halfway through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Deglaze the pan: Add a splash more oil and a little chicken stock to the pot over medium-low heat. Scrape the crispy brown bits off the bottom; they add fantastic flavor.
Cook the vegetables: Add the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, ginger, and kale into the pot, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the Italian seasoning and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Add the broth: Pour in the broth and stir in the turmeric and cayenne. Bring it to a low simmer for about 5-10 minutes. While it simmers, shred or roughly chop the chicken.
Finish the soup: After simmering, reduce the heat to low, stir in the chicken and the lemon juice and zest. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Best ways to enjoy it

This soup is delightful on its own but can be paired with crusty bread for dipping or served alongside a simple green salad. For added texture, consider topping each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dollop of yogurt, or toasted nuts for a delightful crunch.

How to store & freeze

Want to keep your leftovers fresh? Store any uneaten soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze some, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Always use safe food handling practices when storing or reheating!

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate this dish further, consider these pro tips:

Use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth for an extra nutrient boost.
If you want a bit more heat, adjust the cayenne to your taste.
Feel free to throw in any leftover vegetables you have on hand; this recipe is flexible!

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to switch it up:

Swap out chicken for turkey for a twist on a classic.
Replace kale with spinach or Swiss chard, depending on your preference.
Add slices of fresh ginger to the broth for an even more pronounced ginger flavor.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes an additional 20-30 minutes, making it a quick meal solution.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just make sure to store it properly.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also replace the chicken with beans or tofu for added protein.

With its hearty flavors and numerous health benefits, this Healing Chicken Soup with Turmeric & Ginger is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy a warm bowl of wellness!