As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken soup to soothe the soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a pick-me-up, these delicious and easy-to-make recipes are sure to hit the spot. From classic comfort foods to international twists, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering chicken soups that will keep you cozy all season long.
From creamy and rich to spicy and bold, each recipe on this list is a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved soup. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and get ready to warm your belly and your heart with these 20 heartwarming chicken soup recipes.
Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting and familiar soup is a staple for many, and with this recipe, you can create a delicious and nourishing meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich chicken broth, tender noodles, and flavorful vegetables, this homemade version is a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, garlic, and noodles. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
3. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend (such as brown, white, and wild rice)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the peas and carrots.
4. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
This spicy and savory soup is a twist on traditional Thai cuisine, combining the creaminess of coconut milk with the bold flavors of chili peppers and herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, chicken broth, coconut milk, ginger, chilies, fish sauce, and lime juice.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this zesty and comforting soup, featuring tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and the sweetness of lemon. This recipe makes a perfect meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty soup combines the bold flavors of Mexico with tender chicken and crispy tortillas. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add cumin, chili powder, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beans, broth, and tortilla strips. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until soup is heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
This classic recipe is a staple of home cooking, perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal on-the-go. With minimal effort, you’ll have a warm, savory dish filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Add the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness to the dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
A classic Greek comfort food, this creamy chicken soup is made with a rich egg-lemon sauce and tender chicken. Serve with a side of warm pita bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 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 onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken broth, chicken, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice.
5. Gradually add 1/2 cup of the hot soup broth to the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
6. Return the egg yolk mixture to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Vietnamese Pho Ga Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and flavorful Vietnamese-inspired soup made with chicken broth, rice noodles, and shredded chicken, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, fish sauce (if using), cumin, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add shredded chicken to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Season soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with cooked noodles, cilantro leaves, and your choice of garnishes (such as bean sprouts, lime wedges, or chili flakes).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Harira Soup
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, spices, and aromatic vegetables to create a hearty and comforting bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful chowder that combines the tender taste of chicken, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add potatoes, corn, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to puree some or all of the chowder, depending on desired consistency.
6. If using heavy cream or half-and-half, stir it in just before serving.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Spiced Chicken Mulligatawny Soup
This hearty soup is a flavorful blend of Indian spices, chicken, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, green beans)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (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, ginger, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
5. Stir in coconut milk (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Matzo Ball Soup
Warm up with this classic Jewish comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and soft matzo balls for a delicious and nourishing soup.
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
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 matzo balls (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons chicken fat or vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic in chicken fat or oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. About 15 minutes before serving, add the matzo balls to the soup.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the warmth of chicken, sweetness of tomatoes, and brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty barley. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup pearl barley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the chicken, broth, water, barley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Korean Dak Gomtang Chicken Soup
This comforting Korean chicken soup, known as Dak Gomtang, is a staple of Korean cuisine. Rich and flavorful, it’s made with tender chicken, soft rice cakes, and a variety of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup dried rice cakes, cut into small pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water, rice cakes, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot with a side of kimchi, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on traditional tortellini soup, with the added richness of chicken and spinach. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (12-16 count)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, spinach, and tortellini to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the tortellini is cooked through.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Chicken Lentil Soup
This comforting soup combines the flavors of tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and aromatic curry spices to create a satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, lentils, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and a hint of aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine quinoa, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and chicken.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the quinoa is tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Chicken Potage Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a French classic, made with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chicken, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in the whole milk and remaining butter until melted and smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Coconut Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of chicken, sweet potatoes, and coconut milk to create a velvety smooth and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using); cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chicken, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the coconut milk; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 heartwarming chicken soup recipes that will warm your soul! From classic comfort food to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try a creamy and spicy Thai coconut chicken soup, or go old-school with a homemade chicken noodle soup. For a change of pace, opt for a Greek avgolemono or Moroccan spiced harira. Whatever your taste buds crave, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. So grab a spoon and get ready to slurp up the comfort!
