Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup: Recipe, Benefits & More

If you’re looking for a cozy and nourishing meal that warms your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup: Recipe, Benefits & More is my go-to dish for chilly evenings or whenever I need a little comfort. It’s not just packed with flavor—it’s also loaded with wholesome ingredients that are gentle on the body. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or wanting to impress family and friends at a gathering, this soup fits the bill perfectly.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few fresh ingredients and spices, you can whip up a pot of soul-soothing goodness that everyone will love. Plus, the health benefits of this anti-inflammatory chicken soup make it even more special. Let’s dive into why this recipe is truly a treasure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and colorful veggies, everyone from kids to adults will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it throughout the week, saving time on busy days.
• Packed with Nutrition: Filled with anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger and turmeric, it’s as beneficial as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or grains for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

When I say this soup is simple, I mean it! You won’t need to hunt down any fancy ingredients—just some wholesome staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-inch piece ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric (or 2-inch piece fresh turmeric, grated)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable bone broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 whole lemon, juiced (about 2-3 tablespoons)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Sea salt, to taste
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• Optional: 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice (for added heartiness)

Variations

One of the best things about this anti-inflammatory chicken soup is how flexible it is! You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option, feel free to make those substitutions!
• Add more veggies: Green beans, spinach, or kale can add extra nutrients and color to your soup.
• Spice it up: For those who love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Change the grains: Use barley or farro instead of quinoa or rice for an interesting texture.

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup: Recipe, Benefits & More

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs if you’re using them. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. If you opt for chicken breast instead, simply cut them into similar-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to enjoy every spoonful!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it cook until softened and translucent for about 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally; this step helps bring out the natural sweetness of the onion.

Step 3: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Turmeric

Next up are those aromatic powerhouses! Add minced garlic along with grated ginger and turmeric to the pot. Cook these together for another minute or two until fragrant—this step is crucial as it releases their essential oils which adds depth to your soup.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Now it’s time to boost your soup with nutrients! Toss in your chopped carrots, celery, and sweet potato. Stir everything around so that the vegetables get coated with all those lovely aromatics. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften slightly.

Step 5: Brown the Chicken (Optional)

If you’d like some color on your chicken (and who wouldn’t?), push the veggies over to one side of the pot and add your chicken pieces. Cook them until lightly browned on all sides—about 5–7 minutes gives your soup an extra layer of flavor.

Step 6: Add Broth and Water

Pour in both your bone broth and water now! Give everything a good stir while scraping up any delicious bits stuck at the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold!

Step 7: Bring to a Simmer

Raise heat until everything starts bubbling happily then reduce it back down low. Cover your pot and let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes (up to an hour if you’ve got time). This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 8: Check Chicken for Doneness

After about half an hour has passed, check if your chicken is cooked through—it should shred easily when poked with two forks. If it’s still firm inside continue simmering for another 10–15 minutes before shredding.

Step 9: Shred the Chicken (Optional)

This step is optional but adds great texture! Remove shredded chicken from its cozy broth nest then use those forks to pull it apart before returning it back into all that flavorful goodness.

Step 10: Add Lemon Juice, Herbs, and Seasonings

Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with chopped parsley and cilantro now! Season generously with black pepper plus sea salt according to taste preferences—and don’t forget optional red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step 11: Add Quinoa or Rice (Optional)

To make this soup even heartier consider stirring in cooked quinoa or rice at this point—what’s not to love about a little extra sustenance?

Step 12: Serve Hot

Finally ladle into warm bowls ready for enjoying! Garnish each bowl with some extra herbs if desired—it makes such an inviting presentation!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this fantastic Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup! It’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup: Recipe, Benefits & More

Making this comforting soup is a breeze, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate the flavors and nutritional benefits even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance flavor but also maximize the anti-inflammatory properties of your soup. The brighter and more colorful your ingredients, the better!

• Opt for Homemade Broth: If time allows, making your own chicken or vegetable broth can significantly boost the taste and nutritional value. Homemade broth is free from preservatives and allows you to control the sodium content.

• Customize with Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Seasonal produce is often fresher, tastier, and more nutrient-dense.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper. Spices like these are known to enhance metabolism and add depth to your dish.

• Let it Simmer Longer: If you have extra time, let your soup simmer longer than an hour. This deepens the flavors and makes for an even more comforting bowl of goodness.

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup: Recipe, Benefits & More

Serving this anti-inflammatory chicken soup is just as important as making it! There are plenty of ways to present this dish that make it not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens every bite.

• Lemon Zest: Grating a little lemon zest over the top just before serving adds an extra layer of citrus flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Whole Grain Bread: A slice of crusty whole-grain bread pairs perfectly with chicken soup, offering a hearty option for dipping.

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the warmth of the soup while adding crunch.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil make for a nutritious side that enhances the overall meal experience.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, bell peppers, and lemon dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

With these serving ideas and tips in mind, you’ll create not only a nourishing meal but also one that feels like a warm hug in a bowl! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch at once, ensuring you have a comforting and nourishing meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave space at the top of each container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of water or broth if the soup is too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common queries!

Can I use other vegetables in my Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers. They’ll just add more nutrients and flavor!

How does this Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup help with inflammation?

The ingredients like turmeric and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. This soup combines these healing ingredients with nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a powerful choice for supporting overall health.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken with chickpeas or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still enjoy a hearty and flavorful soup!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Anti Inflammatory Chicken Soup as much as I do! With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s not just a meal but a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something comforting, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth!

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