If you’re looking for a soup that’s both comforting and packed with immune-boosting goodness, this Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a warm bowl filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and just the right touch of herbs and lemon to brighten your day and soothe your soul. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly days or whenever you need a little extra care. Plus, it’s quick and straightforward to make, so you can enjoy its benefits without spending all afternoon in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to the rich flavor, comforting texture, and beautiful balance of color. Gathering these essentials means you’re just moments away from a nourishing masterpiece.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing, bringing a silky texture and subtle richness to the base.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth as it softens.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Their natural sweetness and bright orange color make the soup inviting and nutritious.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Imparts a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and immune-supportive qualities to every spoonful.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, rich and flavorful, creating the perfect comforting base.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Protein-packed and tender, adding substance and mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that complements chicken beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a slightly floral, robust flavor enhancing the overall aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors to life.
- 2 cups spinach: Adds a fresh green pop and important vitamins to boost immunity.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Lifts the entire soup with its bright, zesty finish.
How to Make Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This creates a flavorful base. Once hot, add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables until they soften and the onion turns translucent, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma into the pot.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
After the veggies are soft, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about one minute. Garlic can quickly burn, so just enough time to release its fragrant oils is perfect. This step infuses the soup with warmth and that classic comforting note.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Bring to a Boil
Next, pour in all eight cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing everything to mingle and build a savory foundation for the soup. This broth is what carries all the flavors together.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Once boiling, add your shredded cooked chicken along with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. These seasonings are key to adding depth and complexity. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 15 minutes, so all those flavors blend beautifully.
Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Lemon Juice
Finally, add the fresh spinach and squeeze in the juice of one lemon. Let the soup cook for another five minutes. The spinach wilts gently, keeping its vibrant green color, and the lemon juice brightens the dish with a fresh, citrusy zing that lifts the whole soup.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Now your Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy hot! Ladle it into bowls and watch it bring warmth and nourishment with every spoonful.
How to Serve Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To make this soup even more special, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper. A tiny drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of grated Parmesan can add a lovely finishing touch that complements the flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm dinner roll for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side can round out your meal, adding texture and variety while keeping the focus on the soothing qualities of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy night in, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a warm napkin wrapped around them. Or, for a casual lunch, pack it in a thermos to enjoy the comforting warmth wherever you go. You can also add cooked noodles or small pasta shapes to the soup for an extra hearty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This soup keeps well for up to three days, making it a perfect option for quick, nourishing meals during busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. It freezes beautifully for up to three months without losing its delicious flavor or texture.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and restore that perfect comforting consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like thyme and oregano can add a wonderful brightness. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried since fresh herbs are milder.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly and can save you time. Just shred the meat and add it in as directed.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
You can make a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the chicken and broth with plant-based alternatives, like vegetable broth and hearty mushrooms or tofu for texture.
What’s the best way to store soup with spinach to avoid it getting soggy?
It’s best to add the spinach fresh just before serving or during the final cooking minutes as the recipe suggests. Storing the soup without the spinach and adding it fresh on reheating helps maintain its vibrant texture.
How can I boost the immune benefits of this Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe further?
Consider adding ingredients like ginger, turmeric, or extra garlic to boost the anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive properties, enhancing the soup’s cold-fighting abilities.
Final Thoughts
This Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe is truly one of those feel-good dishes that warms your heart while giving your immune system a gentle boost. It’s simple, nourishing, and absolutely delicious—a true kitchen classic you’ll want to keep on hand whenever you need a comforting pick-me-up. So grab your ingredients and get cooking; your cozy bowl of wellness awaits!
Print
Cold Fighting Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cold Fighting Chicken Soup is a comforting, nutritious dish designed to boost your immune system and soothe cold symptoms. Made with wholesome vegetables, shredded chicken, and flavorful herbs, it’s a warm and hearty soup perfect for chilly days or when feeling under the weather.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 2 cups spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot and sauté until the vegetables become soft and tender, which helps build the soup’s flavor base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more to release its aroma without burning.
- Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, creating the soup liquid.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Add the shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot, stirring to combine all flavors.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Spinach and Lemon: Stir in the fresh spinach and lemon juice, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot for the best comforting experience.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For extra flavor, add a bay leaf during simmering and remove before serving.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- This soup freezes well — store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or blend a portion of the soup before adding spinach.
