This Detox Chicken Soup is a warm and comforting dish packed with healthy veggies and tender chicken. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a little pick-me-up!
This soup is so easy to make. I love how it warms me up from the inside out. Plus, it’s like a hug in a bowl—great for when you need some extra care! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for its health benefits and nice flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or coconut oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps it healthier. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth works just as well!
Kale: Kale adds nutrients and a lovely texture. If you’re not a fan, spinach or Swiss chard can be great substitutes.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time, but poached chicken breast is great too. For a vegetarian version, leave the chicken out or use chickpeas for protein.
Herbs: Dried thyme and oregano are essential for flavor. You can use Italian seasoning as a handy alternative.
How Can I Ensure My Soup Has Maximum Flavor?
Flavor building is key in making a delicious soup. Here are some steps to enhance your flavors:
- Sauté your base veggies (onion, celery, and carrots) well before adding other ingredients. This adds depth.
- Don’t rush the simmering step! Allow the broth to blend with the herbs and chicken for a well-rounded taste.
- Lemon juice at the end brightens all the flavors. Fresh is best, but bottled juice works in a pinch.
Following these tips will help you achieve a soup that’s delicious and comforting every time!
Delicious Detox Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached chicken breast)
- 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: crusty bread or herb flatbread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 25 minutes of cooking time, making the total about 40 minutes. You’ll have a delicious and healthy detox chicken soup ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and the garlic to become fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor of the soup!
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, which will help all those wonderful flavors start to blend together.
4. Simmer with Chicken and Herbs:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and oregano to the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld nicely—don’t rush this part!
5. Add in the Kale:
Stir in the chopped kale and let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender. This adds a nutritious pop to your soup!
6. Season the Soup:
Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust it to your liking!
7. Brighten the Flavor:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. This will brighten and enhance all the lovely flavors in your soup.
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley. For a complete meal, serve it hot alongside crusty bread or herb flatbread.
Enjoy your warm, nourishing detox chicken soup that’s packed with immune-boosting veggies and delicious fresh herbs!
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Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. If using a whole chicken, you can boil it directly in the soup, then shred it once cooked.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add more beans, like chickpeas or lentils, for protein.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave; you may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!
What Herbs Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have thyme or oregano, you can use Italian seasoning as a substitute. Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, can also add a flavorful twist when used as a garnish.
