This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it stands out as an excellent option for family dinners or meal prep. Packed with veggies and immune-boosting spices, this soup will not only warm you up but also provide your body with essential nutrients. Enjoy it on chilly nights or whenever you need a homemade pick-me-up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Health Benefits: This soup is loaded with anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and coconut milk, which help boost your immune system.
- Easy to Make: With all ingredients cooked in one pot, it simplifies the cooking process and minimizes cleanup.
- Versatile: Suitable for various diets—dairy-free, paleo, gluten-free—and can be made vegetarian by substituting chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, poultry seasoning, and fresh herbs infuses the soup with rich flavors that delight the palate.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe yields multiple servings, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing for later use.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious soup efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure a perfect result every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients without overcrowding.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
- Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cuts for efficient ingredient preparation.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless thighs or breasts
- 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
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 while stirring occasionally until leeks are soft and starting to caramelize (about 14–16 minutes).
Step 2: Add Spices
Add chopped garlic, turmeric, and poultry seasoning to the pot.
Continue sautéing for another 2–3 minutes until spices are fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add chicken broth, coconut milk, and raw chicken to the pot.
Scrape up any stuck-on bits from the bottom of the pot.
Bring to a bare simmer ensuring chicken is submerged beneath broth; partially cover.
Simmer on low until chicken is cooked through (about 15–20 minutes). Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent coconut milk from splitting.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot.
Allow it to cool slightly on a cutting board before cutting into bite-sized pieces or shredding with two forks.
Return chicken to the pot along with frozen peas (if using) and fresh parsley.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Bring back to a slow simmer allowing chicken to warm through (about 5 minutes).
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
This nourishing soup is perfect for a cozy meal. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Cilantro: Add cilantro for a different flavor profile that complements the spices.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Whole Grain Bread: Serve with slices of hearty whole grain bread for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a delicious, savory addition.
With a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar adds a creamy contrast to the turmeric chicken soup.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Individual Containers: Portion the soup into containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Store leftovers in the freezer for a quick meal later on.
How to Perfect Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
To achieve the best results with your anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your turmeric and other spices are fresh to maximize flavor and health benefits.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken for improved taste and nutrition.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it before adding back the chicken.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning; taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
Pairing side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to enjoy alongside the soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad that pairs well with the flavors of turmeric.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add extra nutrients and texture.
- Brown Rice Cakes: Light and crunchy, they make an excellent pairing with warm soup.
- Hummus with Veggies: Fresh vegetables dipped in hummus provide a healthy crunch.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potatoes offer sweetness that complements the spices in the soup.
- Fruit Chutney: A tangy chutney can provide an interesting contrast to the savory soup flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables and spices builds flavor. Don’t rush this step; take your time to caramelize the leeks and onions.
- Using low-quality chicken broth: The broth is a key ingredient in this soup. Opt for high-quality or homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Not seasoning properly: Seasoning is crucial for flavor enhancement. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Keep an eye on it, ensuring it’s just cooked through before removing it from the pot.
- Ignoring vegetable size uniformity: Cut vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly. This will ensure perfect tenderness throughout the soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring often to avoid scorching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup.
What are the health benefits of Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?
This soup contains turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, promoting overall wellness. The vegetables add essential nutrients.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?
This soup is not spicy but flavorful. If you prefer heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance flavor even more. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best taste.
Final Thoughts
This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. It’s perfect for meal prep or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!
Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
Indulge in the warmth of Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup, a delightful blend of comforting flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep, offering a nourishing experience that supports your immune system with every spoonful. Infused with vibrant turmeric, creamy coconut milk, and an array of fresh vegetables, this recipe not only delights the palate but also provides essential health benefits. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner for the family or a wholesome dish to enjoy throughout the week, this turmeric chicken soup is your go-to choice!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless thighs or breasts
- 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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced leek, carrots, celery, and salt; sauté until softened.
- Stir in chopped garlic, turmeric, and poultry seasoning; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk; add raw chicken. Bring to a simmer, partially cover, and cook until chicken is done.
- Remove chicken to cool slightly before shredding or chopping; return to pot along with peas and parsley.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
