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Bowl of anti inflammatory chicken soup packed with vegetables and herbs.

Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup

This comforting and nourishing chicken soup incorporates bold spices and simple ingredients, perfect for chilly days and packed with anti-inflammatory benefits.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Healthy
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts Boneless thighs are juicier, but breasts work too.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Use for softening veggies.
  • 1 onion, chopped Base flavor for the soup.
  • 2 carrots, sliced Classic soup ingredient.
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced Adds flavor to the base.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced For brightness.
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated Adds warmth to the broth.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric Gives the broth a golden color.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional) Adds depth of flavor.
  • 6-8 cups chicken broth Liquid base for the soup.
  • 1-2 cups chopped kale or spinach For added greens.
  • 1 juice of 1 lemon Brightens the soup at the end.
  • Salt and pepper to taste To season the soup.
  • Optional: cooked rice or quinoa for serving Makes it heartier.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Warm the olive oil in a big pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until they start looking soft and glossy.
  2. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in turmeric (and cumin if using).
  3. Add the chicken and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.
  4. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 18 to 22 minutes for thighs.
  5. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
  6. Add kale and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until it softens. For spinach, only a minute is needed.
  7. Turn off the heat, squeeze in the lemon juice, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

Let the onion, carrot, and celery soften for the best flavor. Always add lemon at the end for freshness. Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for best results. Optional creamy variation by blending part of the soup.