23 Soul-Warming Chicken Soup Recipes to Cozy Up Your Winter Nights

23 Soul-Warming Chicken Soup Recipes to Cozy Up Your Winter Nights

23 Soul-Warming Chicken Soup Recipes to Cozy Up Your Winter Nights

Chicken soup is the ultimate comfort dish. That is why it is the go-to meal for cold weather and those under the weather. From classic noodle to spicy chipotle to creamy wild rice, these 23 recipes have something for every mood and every cold night. Pick your favorite, grab a ladle, and let dinner do the comforting.

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1) Chicken Tortilla Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken tortilla soup topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and lime, steam rising over a rustic table, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Smoky and a bit spicy, with all the crunchy toppings, this is the soup to turn your Tuesday around!

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken tortilla soup topped with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and lime, steam rising over a rustic table, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Tortilla strips top our shredded chicken, corn and bean chili, and tomato broth soup.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can black beans drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 corn tortillas sliced into strips

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion and garlic in a pot until soft.
  2. Stir in the chili powder and cumin and cook 1 minute.
  3. Add the tomatoes, broth, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot with the beans and corn.
  5. Simmer 5 more minutes and serve topped with crispy fried tortilla strips.

Notes

Top with avocado, lime, and a little shredded cheese.

2) Ginger Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of clear ginger chicken soup with sliced scallions and shredded chicken, steam rising over a light linen surface, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This bowl is bright and gingery. It's restorative and will help you feel human again.

a wide horizontal bowl of clear ginger chicken soup with sliced scallions and shredded chicken, steam rising over a light linen surface, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Ginger Chicken Soup

A soothing broth with ginger and garlic and tender chicken pieces.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic smashed
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 scallions sliced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Method
 

  1. Add the chicken, ginger, garlic, and broth to a pot and bring to a simmer.
  2. Simmer gently for 25 minutes until the chicken is tender.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
  5. Ladle into bowls and top with sliced scallions.

Notes

Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

3) Classic Chicken Noodle

a wide horizontal bowl of classic chicken noodle soup with carrots, celery, and egg noodles in golden broth, fresh parsley, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Exactly how Grandma made it, no changes needed.

a wide horizontal bowl of classic chicken noodle soup with carrots, celery, and egg noodles in golden broth, fresh parsley, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Classic Chicken Noodle

A delicious broth with soft egg noodles, carrots, celery, and chicken that has been cooked to perfection.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 3 stalks celery sliced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 3 cups egg noodles
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot until softened.
  2. Add the broth and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the egg noodles and cook 8 minutes until tender.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley before serving.

Notes

Cook the noodles separately if you want to store leftovers without them going mushy.

4) Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup, thick pale broth flecked with wild rice and vegetables, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

With a rich, velvety texture and generous portions of nutty wild rice, this is the soup that feels like a hug!

a wide horizontal bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup, thick pale broth flecked with wild rice and vegetables, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Chicken, wild rice, and vegetables in a creamy broth.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 cup wild rice blend
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 tbsp butter

Method
 

  1. Cook the wild rice in part of the broth until tender, then set aside.
  2. Melt the butter and saute the onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
  3. Stir in the flour and cook 1 minute, then whisk in the remaining broth.
  4. Add the chicken and simmer 20 minutes, then shred and return it.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice and cream, then warm through and season.

5) Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of lemon chicken orzo soup with spinach and a lemon wedge, bright broth and fresh dill, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Lemon and orzo elevate this dump-and-go soup with a taste way beyond the effort.

a wide horizontal bowl of lemon chicken orzo soup with spinach and a lemon wedge, bright broth and fresh dill, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

A lemon broth with chicken and orzo that cooks on low all day!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb chicken thighs
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tbsp chopped dill

Method
 

  1. Add the chicken, onion, carrots, and broth to a slow cooker.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the orzo and cook 20 minutes on high until tender.
  5. Add the lemon juice, spinach, and dill just before serving.

Notes

Stir in the orzo at the end so it doesn't overcook into the broth.

6) Mexican Lime Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of Mexican lime chicken soup with cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges, brothy and bright, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Light and zesty, this broth bowl with lime awakens your taste buds on the coldest nights.

a wide horizontal bowl of Mexican lime chicken soup with cilantro, avocado, and lime wedges, brothy and bright, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Mexican Lime Chicken Soup

Broth that has a tinge of lime mixed with tomatoes, chicken, jalapenos, and fresh cilantro.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 jalapeno minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 limes juiced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion, jalapeno, and garlic in a pot until softened.
  2. Add the tomatoes, broth, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the lime juice and warm through.
  5. Finish with chopped cilantro and serve with extra lime wedges.

Notes

Add diced avocado on top for a creamy contrast.

7) Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of Thai coconut chicken soup with mushrooms, creamy pale broth, cilantro and lime, steam rising, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This bowl of creamy coconut and lemongrass transports you to warmer climates with a touch of spice.

a wide horizontal bowl of Thai coconut chicken soup with mushrooms, creamy pale broth, cilantro and lime, steam rising, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

Coconut milk broth with chicken and mushrooms finished with a touch of lime and chili.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast sliced
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 stalk lemongrass bruised
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Simmer the broth, coconut milk, lemongrass, and curry paste in a pot.
  2. Add the sliced chicken and mushrooms and simmer 15 minutes.
  3. Remove and discard the lemongrass stalk.
  4. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice.
  5. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

Use light coconut milk for a less rich version.

8) Chicken and White Bean Chili

a wide horizontal bowl of creamy white chicken chili with beans, topped with cheese and tortilla chips, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

When winter comes, this white chili will wrap you in its coziness, creaminess, and slight spiciness. It will answer all your white chili cravings.

a wide horizontal bowl of creamy white chicken chili with beans, topped with cheese and tortilla chips, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken and White Bean Chili

A white chili made with shredded chicken, white beans, green chillies and cream is excellent.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 2 cans white beans drained
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can green chiles
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp oregano

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion and garlic in a pot until soft.
  2. Add the cumin, oregano, green chiles, broth, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Add the white beans and mash a few against the side to thicken.
  5. Stir in the sour cream off the heat and warm gently.

Notes

Top with shredded Monterey Jack and crushed tortilla chips.

9) Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of hearty chicken and vegetable soup full of carrots, potatoes, and green beans in clear broth, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This healthy bowl makes you feel good and is filled with vegetables and pieces of chicken.

a wide horizontal bowl of hearty chicken and vegetable soup full of carrots, potatoes, and green beans in clear broth, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup

A warm soup filled with chicken and a variety of winter veggies.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 2 potatoes cubed
  • 1 cup green beans trimmed
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 bay leaf

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion, carrots, and celery in a large pot until softened.
  2. Add the potatoes, broth, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken.
  3. Simmer 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  5. Add the green beans and simmer 5 more minutes, then remove the bay leaf.

10) Chicken and Dumplings

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and dumplings with fluffy biscuit dumplings in creamy gravy, fresh parsley, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Dumplings in chicken gravy are the definition of comfort food.

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and dumplings with fluffy biscuit dumplings in creamy gravy, fresh parsley, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken and Dumplings

A thick and creamy chicken stew with biscuit dumplings that are steamed and extremely fluffy.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1.5 cups flour for dumplings
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 3/4 cup milk

Method
 

  1. Melt the butter and saute the onion and carrots until soft.
  2. Stir in the 3 tbsp flour, then whisk in the broth and add the chicken.
  3. Simmer 20 minutes, then shred the chicken and stir in the cream.
  4. Mix the dumpling flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and milk into a soft dough.
  5. Drop spoonfuls onto the simmering stew, cover, and steam 15 minutes until puffed.

Notes

Keep the lid on while the dumplings steam so they cook all the way through.

11) Spicy Chicken and Chorizo Stew

a wide horizontal bowl of spicy chicken and chorizo stew with peppers and beans in rich red broth, crusty bread alongside, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chorizo always brings a wonderful flavor to hot dishes like this stew with a thick broth to warm you during those cold winter days.

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a wide horizontal bowl of spicy chicken and chorizo stew with peppers and beans in rich red broth, crusty bread alongside, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Spicy Chicken and Chorizo Stew

A zesty tomato stew with chicken, smoky chorizo, peppers, and beans.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs cubed
  • 8 oz chorizo sliced
  • 1 red pepper diced
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can kidney beans drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Method
 

  1. Brown the chorizo in a pot, then remove and set aside.
  2. Sear the chicken in the rendered fat until browned.
  3. Add the onion, red pepper, and smoked paprika and saute until soft.
  4. Stir in the tomatoes, broth, and chorizo and simmer 20 minutes.
  5. Add the kidney beans and simmer 5 more minutes until thickened.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread to mop up the broth.

12) Italian Chicken and Mushroom Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of Italian chicken and mushroom soup in a tomato-herb broth, fresh basil and Parmesan, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Mushrooms and earthy Italian herbs give this rustic bowl delicious flavors reminiscent of an Italian restaurant during a snowstorm.

a wide horizontal bowl of Italian chicken and mushroom soup in a tomato-herb broth, fresh basil and Parmesan, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Italian Chicken and Mushroom Soup

A broth flavored with herbs and spices and complemented with chicken, mushrooms, and a hint of tomato.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 8 oz mushrooms sliced
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp chopped basil

Method
 

  1. Saute the mushrooms in a pot until browned, then add the onion and garlic.
  2. Stir in the Italian seasoning and cook 1 minute.
  3. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  5. Finish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

13) Chicken and Corn Chowder

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and corn chowder, thick creamy broth with golden corn and potatoes, fresh chives, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This chowder has all the winter comfort features. It’s creamy and sweet and has corn and pieces of chicken.

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and corn chowder, thick creamy broth with golden corn and potatoes, fresh chives, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken and Corn Chowder

Thick and creamy chowder containing chicken, sweet corn, and tender potatoes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 3 cups corn
  • 2 potatoes cubed
  • 1 onion diced
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 tbsp butter

Method
 

  1. Melt the butter and saute the onion until soft.
  2. Stir in the flour and cook 1 minute, then whisk in the broth.
  3. Add the potatoes and chicken and simmer 20 minutes until tender.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  5. Stir in the corn and cream, then warm through and season.

Notes

Blend a cup of the chowder and stir it back in for extra body.

14) Turmeric Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of golden turmeric chicken soup with carrots and shredded chicken, cilantro garnish, warm glowing broth, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Golden, warmly spiced and good for your body this glowing bowl seems to be a reset button.

a wide horizontal bowl of golden turmeric chicken soup with carrots and shredded chicken, cilantro garnish, warm glowing broth, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Turmeric Chicken Soup

A warming golden broth with chicken, turmeric, ginger, and coconut milk.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 onion diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 1 carrot diced
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion, ginger, and turmeric in a pot until fragrant.
  2. Add the carrot, broth, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the coconut milk and warm through.
  5. Garnish with cilantro and a crack of black pepper.

Notes

A pinch of black pepper helps your body absorb the turmeric.

15) Chicken Pho

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken pho with rice noodles, shredded chicken, and a pile of fresh herbs, lime and sprouts alongside, steam rising, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This takes a lot of love and care to make. It has a fantastic star anise broth, silky rice noodles, and a mountain of fresh herbs.

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken pho with rice noodles, shredded chicken, and a pile of fresh herbs, lime and sprouts alongside, steam rising, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken Pho

Aromatic Vietnamese broth served with rice noodles, chicken, and fresh spices.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 3 star anise pods
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 inch piece ginger sliced
  • 1 onion halved
  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 cup fresh herbs basil, cilantro, mint

Method
 

  1. Char the onion and ginger in a dry pot until fragrant.
  2. Add the broth, star anise, and cinnamon and simmer 30 minutes.
  3. Add the chicken and poach 15 minutes, then shred it.
  4. Strain the broth and stir in the fish sauce.
  5. Divide cooked rice noodles and chicken into bowls, ladle the broth over, and pile on fresh herbs.

Notes

Serve with lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sliced chili on the side.

16) Moroccan Chicken and Lentil Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of Moroccan chicken and lentil soup with chickpeas in a spiced tomato broth, cilantro and lemon, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

The scent of far-off markets wafts from this hearty lentil soup, warmly spiced with cinnamon and cumin.

a wide horizontal bowl of Moroccan chicken and lentil soup with chickpeas in a spiced tomato broth, cilantro and lemon, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Moroccan Chicken and Lentil Soup

A spiced North African style tomato and lentil soup with chicken and chickpeas.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs cubed
  • 1 cup brown lentils
  • 1 can chickpeas drained
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion in a pot, then stir in the cumin and cinnamon.
  2. Add the chicken and brown lightly.
  3. Stir in the lentils, tomatoes, and broth and simmer 30 minutes.
  4. Add the chickpeas and simmer 5 more minutes until the lentils are tender.
  5. Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon.

17) Roasted Garlic Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of roasted garlic chicken soup with carrots in a golden broth, fresh parsley, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This simple soup has a depth of flavor that makes it seem as if it has been simmering for hours. The mellow and sweet roasted garlic goes a long way in achieving this.

a wide horizontal bowl of roasted garlic chicken soup with carrots in a golden broth, fresh parsley, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Roasted Garlic Chicken Soup

A silken broth has been crafted with sweet roasted garlic, chicken, and tender vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head garlic
  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Method
 

  1. Roast the whole garlic head drizzled with olive oil at 400 F for 35 minutes, then squeeze out the cloves.
  2. Saute the onion and carrots in a pot until soft.
  3. Add the broth, thyme, chicken, and roasted garlic and simmer 20 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  5. Mash the soft garlic into the broth and finish with parsley.

Notes

Roast the garlic ahead of time to speed up dinner.

18) Chicken and Spinach Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and spinach soup with shredded chicken and bright green spinach in clear broth, lemon wedge, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

With a broth base and a good amount of greens, this soup is a great way to feel good about yourself.

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and spinach soup with shredded chicken and bright green spinach in clear broth, lemon wedge, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken and Spinach Soup

This broth contains shredded chicken, garlic, and a lot of fresh spinach.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 onion diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
  2. Add the broth and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the spinach and cook 2 minutes until wilted.
  5. Finish with lemon juice and season to taste.

Notes

Add a handful of cooked rice or pasta to make it more filling.

19) Smoky Chipotle Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of smoky chipotle chicken soup with black beans in a deep red broth, sour cream and cilantro, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This bowl has chipotle that gives it a little smokiness and a little spiciness to provide a lot of warmth on a cold winter night.

a wide horizontal bowl of smoky chipotle chicken soup with black beans in a deep red broth, sour cream and cilantro, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Smoky Chipotle Chicken Soup

A smoky tomato broth with chicken, chipotle peppers, and black beans.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can black beans drained
  • 1 onion diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion in a pot until soft, then stir in the chipotle and cumin.
  2. Add the tomatoes, broth, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Add the black beans and simmer 5 more minutes.
  5. Garnish with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

Start with one chipotle if you're sensitive to heat.

20) Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

a wide horizontal bowl of Cajun chicken and sausage gumbo over white rice, deep brown broth with sausage, scallions on top, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

This classic Louisiana dish only deepens in complexity with the time spent on the roux.

a wide horizontal bowl of Cajun chicken and sausage gumbo over white rice, deep brown broth with sausage, scallions on top, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

An exquisite roux-based gumbo with chicken, andouille sausage, and the holy trinity of veggies.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken thighs cubed
  • 12 oz andouille sausage sliced
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 green pepper diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning

Method
 

  1. Whisk the flour and oil in a heavy pot over medium heat to make a dark brown roux, about 25 minutes.
  2. Add the onion, green pepper, and celery and cook until soft.
  3. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, then slowly whisk in the broth.
  4. Add the chicken and sausage and simmer 30 minutes.
  5. Serve over white rice with sliced scallions.

Notes

Stir the roux constantly so it deepens in color without burning.

21) Chicken and Barley Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and barley soup with carrots and celery in a hearty broth, fresh thyme, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chewy barley makes this soup stay with you and will keep you full until morning.

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and barley soup with carrots and celery in a hearty broth, fresh thyme, warm natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken and Barley Soup

A warm broth with chicken, nutty barley, and several root veggies.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 3/4 cup pearl barley
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 bay leaf

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion, carrots, and celery in a pot until softened.
  2. Add the barley, broth, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken.
  3. Simmer 35 minutes until the barley is tender.
  4. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  5. Remove the bay leaf and season to taste before serving.

Notes

The barley keeps drinking up broth, so add more if it thickens overnight.

22) Miso Chicken Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of miso chicken soup with tofu cubes and bok choy in savory broth, scallions on top, steam rising, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

The chicken broth transforms with the addition of savory, umami-rich miso.

a wide horizontal bowl of miso chicken soup with tofu cubes and bok choy in savory broth, scallions on top, steam rising, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Miso Chicken Soup

A delicious broth made with miso, chicken, tofu, and soft veggies.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast sliced
  • 3 tbsp white miso paste
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup firm tofu cubed
  • 2 cups baby bok choy chopped
  • 2 scallions sliced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Method
 

  1. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer and add the sliced chicken.
  2. Simmer 12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  3. Whisk the miso paste with a ladle of broth, then stir it back into the pot.
  4. Add the tofu and bok choy and simmer 3 minutes.
  5. Finish with sesame oil and scallions, keeping the heat low so the miso doesn't boil.

Notes

Don't boil the soup after adding the miso or it loses its flavor.

23) Chicken and Rice Soup

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and rice soup with carrots, celery, and fluffy rice in golden broth, fresh parsley, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Calming and always appreciated, especially when someone is sick, this is always a winner.

a wide horizontal bowl of chicken and rice soup with carrots, celery, and fluffy rice in golden broth, fresh parsley, natural light, shallow depth of field, landscape orientation

Chicken and Rice Soup

A soothing broth with chicken, soft rice, and gentle vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Method
 

  1. Saute the onion, carrots, and celery in a pot until soft.
  2. Add the broth, thyme, and chicken and simmer 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
  4. Stir in the rice and cook 15 minutes until tender.
  5. Season to taste and finish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Cook the rice separately if you plan to freeze the soup.