7 Cozy Takes on Chicken Soup

January 14, 2024

Courtesy of A Farmgirl's Dabbles

“Cozy” and “chicken soup” just seem to go together; it’s definitely high on the list of ultimate comfort foods. And there’s no better time to sink into chicken soup’s warm embrace than the chilly winter months.

Though we love a classic chicken soup, it’s also fun to explore all the ways different cuisines around the world approach it. Here, we curated a selection of chicken soups that incorporate wholesome, healthy ingredients, all with a different twist on flavor. Whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy or herby, you’ll find your ideal bowl here.

One-Pot Chicken Soup with White Beans & Kale

Courtesy of Minimalist Baker

Here’s a dairy-, gluten- and grain-free soup that’s loaded with good nutrition, flavorful and on the table in 30 minutes. What could be better? A little bit of bacon adds smoky flavor, and there’s plenty of garlic for flavor (and it’s anti-inflammatory, too). Because it calls for cooked chicken, this soup would be the perfect way to give leftovers new life. Swap spinach for the kale, if you like.

Try this recipe from Minimalist Baker.

Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo

Courtesy of Pinch of Yum

Sunny, tangy lemon is just the thing to brighten up a cold day–so it makes a fantastic addition to chicken soup. Plus, the shot of vitamin C from lemon adds a kick to chicken soup’s immune-boosting power. It’s high in protein, with chewy texture and added fiber thanks to whole-wheat orzo and even more nutrients from spinach and fresh dill.

Try this recipe from Pinch of Yum.

Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup

Courtesy of Natasha’s Kitchen

Here’s a restaurant favorite, made simple and quick so you can enjoy it any time, even on busy weeknights. Jalapeno and chili powder add some heat, but you can omit the pepper and cut back on the spice if you prefer it milder. Black beans, lime, and cilantro add flavor and even more nutrients. Don’t forget the crispy tortilla strips.

Try this recipe from Natasha’s Kitchen.

Coconut Chicken Curry Soup

Courtesy of A Farmgirl’s Dabbles

With flavorful curry paste, lots of vegetables, coconut milk, fish sauce for umami, and, of course, chicken, this soup is a meal in a bowl. Don’t skip the step of toasting the curry pastes in the pot; it just takes a moment and it deepens the flavor. Serve this tasty soup over rice or rice noodles to make it even heartier.

Try this recipe from A Farmgirl’s Dabbles.

Chicken Miso Soup

Courtesy of Mae’s Menu

If you love the miso soup you get at Japanese restaurants, you’re in for a treat. This umami-rich soup is comforting and nutritious, with an extra boost from probiotic miso paste. (TIP: Be sure not to boil the soup; the miso loses its probiotic benefits if it’s cooked too hot.)

Try this recipe from Mae’s Menu.

Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Soup

Courtesy of Savory Experiments

This creamy roasted red pepper-based bowl has a secret ingredient that adds creaminess, protein and fiber: Hummus. We know, right? And it’s on the table in 15 minutes. This could be the perfect winter weeknight meal. It calls for cooked brown rice, but feel free to swap in another whole grain if you have it handy.

Try this recipe from Savory Experiments.

Chicken Pesto Soup

Courtesy of Gimme Some Oven

Five ingredients, 15 minutes, dinner–what could be better? Whether you prefer to DIY or use packaged pesto, you’ll love the burst of herby goodness it adds to this super-easy chicken soup. Along with tons of flavor, the basil in pesto adds vitamin K, essential for bone health, as well as disease-fighting antioxidants. Plus, we just love to have another place to add pesto.

Try this recipe from Gimme Some Oven.