Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing meal that warms your soul, this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is just what you need! It’s a comforting bowl of goodness brimming with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. This recipe has become a family favorite in our home, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple. Plus, it’s ideal for meal prep – make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to the turmeric and fresh veggies. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to bring comfort and nourishment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies.
• Meal Prep Magic: Make it ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or dinners.
• Flavorful and Nourishing: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Options: This soup can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup, you’ll only need simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced
• 3 large carrots, thinly sliced
• 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

Flavor Boosters

• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 13.5 ounce can coconut milk
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless thighs or breasts

Finishing Touches

• 1 10 ounce bag frozen peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes or fresh ginger for an extra kick!

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add onions, leeks, carrots, celery, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté these until the leeks are soft and starting to caramelize—this will take about 14-16 minutes. Sautéing brings out their natural sugars and enhances their flavors.

Step 2: Add Spices

Once your veggies are softened and fragrant, add in the chopped garlic along with turmeric and poultry seasoning. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until everything is smelling divine! This step is crucial because cooking the spices releases their essential oils and maximizes their flavor.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Now it’s time to make this soup hearty! Pour in your chicken broth and coconut milk while adding raw chicken pieces into the pot. Scrape any bits stuck on the bottom (those bits are full of flavor!). Bring everything to a gentle simmer while making sure the chicken is submerged beneath the liquid. Cover partially and let it simmer low for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

After simmering, remove the lid carefully. Take out the chicken onto a cutting board to cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces using two forks. This step helps ensure that each bowl has perfectly tender chicken pieces!

Step 5: Final Touches

Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with frozen peas (if using) and fresh parsley. Bring back to a slow simmer for about 5 more minutes until everything is warmed through—this will make sure those peas are bright green and tender too! Finally, season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Serve hot with extra parsley on top if desired. Enjoy this warm hug in a bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Making this nourishing soup is a joy, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your cooking experience!

• Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chopping vegetables beforehand can save you time during cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they sauté. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure you’re ready to whip up this comforting meal whenever you need it.

• Use Fresh Spices: When using spices like turmeric and poultry seasoning, opt for fresh ones whenever possible. This enhances the flavor profile of your soup and maximizes the anti-inflammatory benefits—fresh spices have more potency than older ones.

• Cook Low and Slow: To keep the coconut milk creamy and prevent it from splitting, simmer your soup gently on low heat. This method not only keeps everything beautifully blended but also ensures that all the flavors are fully developed.

• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning. This allows you to fine-tune the salt and pepper based on how the flavors have melded during cooking—don’t forget that the chicken adds its own seasoning!

• Store Properly for Meal Prep: If you’re making this soup in advance, store it in airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freezes nicely for future meals. Just remember to let it cool before sealing!

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Serving this vibrant soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present your dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh herbal flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Lemon Wedge: Serving with a lemon wedge allows guests to squeeze a bit of citrus over their soup, enhancing its brightness and flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper: For those who enjoy a little kick, offering crushed red pepper on the side lets everyone customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Whole Grain Bread: A slice of warm whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, adding texture and heartiness to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with seasonal greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances out the warmth of the soup while providing extra nutrients.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out sweetness and add another layer of flavor; think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes tossed with olive oil and herbs.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: For those looking for added protein and fiber, serving a scoop of quinoa or brown rice alongside or even in the soup makes it more filling and nutritious.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup with these tips and serving suggestions! It’s sure to become a favorite comfort food in your kitchen.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and even improves in flavor as it sits, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness!

Freezing

• Cool the soup completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some answers to common inquiries about this comforting dish.

Can I make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for longer storage.

What makes this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup healthy?

The combination of turmeric, fresh vegetables, and lean chicken provides anti-inflammatory benefits while being low in carbs and high in protein.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein in this soup?

Yes! You can use chickpeas or tofu as a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?

Yes! This soup is dairy-free, gluten-free, and can easily be made paleo-friendly. It’s a nourishing option that fits various dietary needs.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary, or include spices like ginger for an added kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, packed with nourishing ingredients that uplift your body and spirit. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meals for yourself, this soup is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Happy cooking!