The comfort of homemade chicken soup meets the healing benefits of bone broth in this nourishing bowl of goodness. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something wholesome and cozy, this Bone Broth Chicken Soup delivers in both flavor and nutrition.
Loaded with vibrant vegetables, shredded chicken, and anti-inflammatory herbs and spices like turmeric and rosemary, this soup is more than just comfort food, it’s wellness in every spoonful. The lemon juice and fresh parsley at the end brighten the dish beautifully. It’s a family-friendly, easy-to-make soup that supports gut health and boosts your immune system.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 small onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
-
2 celery stalks, chopped
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
-
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
-
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
6 cups bone broth (chicken bone broth preferred)
-
2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
-
1 cup zucchini, diced
-
1/2 cup frozen peas
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
-
Add the thyme, rosemary, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
-
Pour in the bone broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
-
Add the shredded chicken, zucchini, and peas. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until zucchini is tender and peas are warmed through.
-
Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley right before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
-
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 225 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Nourishing Bone Broth Chicken Soup: A Comforting, Healing Classic
There’s something universally comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup. It’s the dish we turn to when we’re feeling under the weather, when the temperatures drop, or when we simply crave something wholesome and nourishing. But when you elevate that classic with the richness of bone broth, it becomes more than just comfort food, it becomes a healing, immune-boosting powerhouse.
Bone Broth Chicken Soup is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. Rooted in tradition, loved by generations, and constantly reinvented in modern kitchens, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort, nutrition, and flavor. Whether you’re following a paleo, Whole30, or low-carb diet, or simply looking to eat clean, this soup checks all the boxes.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of bone broth, why this soup is perfect for any lifestyle, key ingredients and substitutions, tips for success, and creative variations to suit every palate.
Why Bone Broth?
Before diving into the recipe, it’s worth highlighting what makes bone broth such a nutritional powerhouse. Unlike regular chicken stock, bone broth is made by simmering animal bones (often roasted first) with herbs, vegetables, and acid (like apple cider vinegar) over a long period—sometimes 12 to 24 hours. This extended cooking time helps extract collagen, amino acids, and minerals from the bones.
Key Health Benefits of Bone Broth:
-
Joint and Bone Health
The collagen and gelatin found in bone broth can support healthy joints, reduce inflammation, and improve overall mobility. -
Gut Health
Gelatin from the bones helps to repair the gut lining, which is beneficial for individuals with leaky gut syndrome, IBS, or general digestive discomfort. -
Immune System Boost
Rich in minerals like zinc, magnesium, and calcium, bone broth can help bolster the immune system—making it perfect for flu season or recovery meals. -
Glowing Skin and Hair
Collagen not only helps joints but also improves skin elasticity and hydration, contributing to youthful, glowing skin. -
High in Protein, Low in Calories
Bone broth is naturally high in protein yet low in carbs and calories, making it ideal for those watching their macros or following ketogenic-style diets.
What Makes This Chicken Soup Stand Out?
This isn’t your average chicken soup. Infused with turmeric, fresh herbs, and lemon, and packed with vegetables, this recipe delivers deep, layered flavors with nourishing benefits. Here’s a closer look at the standout ingredients:
1. Chicken
Using cooked, shredded chicken breast ensures a lean protein base. It’s versatile, low-fat, and readily absorbs the soup’s seasoning. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
2. Vegetables
Carrots, celery, onion, zucchini, and peas provide nutrients, fiber, and color. You’re welcome to mix and match based on seasonality or preference—sweet potatoes, kale, or spinach work well too.
3. Herbs and Spices
-
Thyme & Rosemary: These earthy, aromatic herbs complement the broth and chicken perfectly.
-
Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it adds both golden color and healing power.
-
Parsley: Added at the end for freshness and a mild peppery note.
-
Lemon Juice: Enhances all the flavors with a bright, acidic finish.
4. Bone Broth
The star of the dish, bone broth provides richness and depth you won’t get from ordinary stock. You can use store-bought or homemade, just ensure it’s low-sodium so you can control the salt.
Perfect For Every Diet
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is:
-
Paleo-Friendly: All ingredients are whole, unprocessed, and nutrient-rich.
-
Whole30 Approved: Skip the peas if needed, and it fits perfectly within the plan.
-
Low Carb/Keto: With no noodles or grains, this soup is naturally low in carbohydrates.
-
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Perfect for those with allergies or sensitivities.
-
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week, it reheats wonderfully.
Tips for the Best Bone Broth Chicken Soup
Want to take this dish to the next level? Keep these tips in mind:
-
Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to allow even simmering and avoid burning the aromatics.
-
Don’t overcook the zucchini and peas; add them near the end to preserve their texture and color.
-
Adjust salt last—bone broth can vary in sodium, especially if store-bought.
-
Add extra broth when reheating, as the soup tends to thicken slightly in the fridge.
-
Fresh herbs matter. Dried herbs are great for simmering, but finish with fresh parsley or even dill for a burst of flavor.
Creative Variations to Try
One of the joys of cooking soup is how easy it is to tweak based on what’s in your fridge or pantry. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
-
Add grains like quinoa, rice, or orzo if you want a heartier meal.
-
Make it spicy by adding chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce.
-
Go green with spinach, kale, or Swiss chard stirred in at the end.
-
Make it creamy by blending half the soup and returning it to the pot for a thicker texture.
-
Asian twist: Add a splash of coconut aminos, ginger, and lime for a Thai-inspired version.
-
Italian-style: Stir in a bit of pesto or grated Parmesan (if not dairy-free) before serving.
Storing and Freezing
This soup is ideal for meal prepping or freezing. Here’s how to store it:
-
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
-
Freezer: Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Leave space for expansion.
-
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add broth or water as needed to restore the original consistency.
When to Serve This Soup
Bone Broth Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile:
-
Cold or flu season: It’s gentle on the stomach and boosts your immunity.
-
Post-workout recovery: High in protein and hydrating.
-
Dinner or lunch: Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a light salad.
-
Comfort food nights: Cozy, warming, and soul-soothing.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for yourself, this soup is a nourishing addition to any weekly menu.
Conclusion
Bone Broth Chicken Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a ritual. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, that makes you feel better after just one bowl, and that adapts beautifully to your tastes and needs. From the health-boosting benefits of bone broth to the healing warmth of turmeric and garlic, every ingredient works in harmony to nourish your body and comfort your soul.
Whether you’re embracing clean eating, trying to recover from illness, or simply seeking a cozy meal, this soup is a must-try. So, stock up on your favorite veggies, grab some bone broth, and simmer up a pot of goodness. Your body and your taste buds will thank you.