Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing meal that warms the soul, then this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes I turn to when life gets hectic or when the weather outside is a little too chilly. The golden hue of turmeric not only brightens up the bowl but also brings a wealth of health benefits. This soup is packed with wholesome ingredients like leeks, carrots, and coconut milk, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What I love most about this recipe is how easily it comes together in one pot. You can prepare it in advance and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week. Plus, it’s dairy-free, paleo-friendly, and has a vegetarian option, so everyone can enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to have on hand for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Health Boosting: Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients that nourish both body and soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each one adds its own unique flavor and nourishment to the soup.

For the Soup

• 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

Variations

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is incredibly flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option that still packs a protein punch.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup!
• Go creamy: For an even creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding back the chicken.

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add in your diced onions, leeks, carrots, celery, and salt. Sauté them while stirring occasionally until the leeks become soft and start to caramelize—this usually takes about 14-16 minutes. This step is essential because caramelizing brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 2: Add Spices

Next, toss in your chopped garlic along with turmeric and poultry seasoning. Keep sautéing for another 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently until everything is fragrant and nicely blended. The smell will fill your kitchen with warmth!

Step 3: Simmer It Together

Now it’s time to add your broth, coconut milk, and raw chicken into the pot. Be sure to scrape any tasty bits off the bottom—those are full of flavor! Bring everything to a gentle simmer while keeping the chicken submerged in liquid—this allows it to cook evenly. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes until both chicken and veggies are tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked through, carefully remove the chicken from the pot onto a cutting board. Let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return that lovely chicken back into the pot along with frozen peas if you’re using them! Bring everything back to a slow simmer for about 5 more minutes until those peas are bright green.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season your soup with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley on top if you’d like! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Making this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you create the best version of this nourishing dish.

• Prep Your Veggies Ahead: Chopping your vegetables in advance can save time during the cooking process, making it easier to whip up this comforting soup on a busy weeknight.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground turmeric and spices can enhance the flavor profile of your soup significantly. They pack a punch that dried spices may not deliver, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with warmth and zest.

• Adjust Consistency to Taste: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it after cooking and then mix it back in. This gives you that creamy texture without adding dairy, keeping it wholesome and healthy!

• Experiment with Proteins: While chicken is the star here, feel free to substitute with chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives provide protein while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

• Store Leftovers Properly: This soup freezes beautifully! Portion out leftovers into airtight containers to enjoy later. Just remember to leave some room for expansion as it freezes!

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Serving this vibrant soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of extra parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that enhances the overall flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the soup’s flavor and adds a refreshing zing that balances the richness of the coconut milk.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: Light and fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh veggies makes for a perfect side that complements the flavors in the soup while adding additional nutrients.
• Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor are wonderful when dipped into the warm soup, creating a satisfying contrast.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides an extra boost of vitamins and minerals alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
• Whole Grain Crackers: Crunchy whole grain crackers add texture and can be used for scooping up your delicious soup.

Enjoy serving your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup with these thoughtful touches! Each element brings something special, making mealtime even more enjoyable.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a comforting batch that’s ready to go for busy days or cozy nights. Here’s how to store and enjoy your soup later!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor, consume within this time frame.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool down before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe. Let’s address a few common ones!

Can I make this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or another protein source of your choice and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrition.

How does turmeric help in this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

Turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Including turmeric in your diet can help support overall health and reduce inflammation, making this soup both tasty and beneficial.

What if I don’t have coconut milk for my Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

If you’re out of coconut milk, you can substitute it with almond milk or another dairy-free milk alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious!

Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Yes! This soup is versatile. Feel free to include additional veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also packed with nutritious ingredients that nourish both body and soul. Enjoy every warm spoonful knowing you’re doing something good for yourself. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—I can’t wait to hear about your experience!