This Turmeric Ginger Chicken Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a nourishing meal. It’s an easy healthy chicken recipe that’s both flavorful and incredibly comforting, ideal for any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Fresh Ginger: Essential for flavor; powdered ginger is not a good substitute here.
- Turmeric: Fresh or ground turmeric works well.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended. Vegetable broth also works.
- Leafy Greens: Spinach or kale adds a healthy boost.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (or 1 tablespoon fresh, grated)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup chopped leafy greens (spinach or kale)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320 calories
- Tools needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife, grater.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Chicken and Spices
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Sprinkle in the ground turmeric, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly. This infuses the soup with beautiful color and flavor.
3. Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the sliced carrots and celery. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
4. Finish with Greens
Stir in the leafy greens and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they are wilted. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your taste. Your easy healthy chicken recipe is almost ready!
5. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the warm Turmeric Ginger Chicken Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, for a pop of freshness. Enjoy this comforting and easy healthy chicken recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end for extra brightness.
- Include some diced sweet potato or bell peppers for more vegetables.
- Stir in cooked rice or noodles during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a heartier meal.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Turmeric Ginger Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you freeze Turmeric Ginger Chicken Soup? Yes, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Is this soup spicy? No, the ginger provides warmth but not significant spice. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like.
- Can you use bone-in chicken? Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and remove the bones before serving.
- What if you don’t have fresh turmeric? You can use ground turmeric, but fresh gives a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric for every 1 tablespoon of fresh.
- Is this a good soup for colds? Absolutely! The ginger and turmeric are known for their soothing properties, making this an ideal easy healthy chicken recipe when you need a boost.
- Can you make this soup vegetarian? Yes, substitute chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based option.