Chicken Garlic Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich broth, and the bold flavor of garlic. This soup is perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a nutritious and soothing meal. The garlic not only adds a deep, aromatic flavor but also has natural antibacterial properties, making this soup a great option for boosting immunity. With the added benefits of vegetables, like onions and carrots, and the heartiness of chicken, this soup is both flavorful and nourishing. It’s simple to make and sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (or more for a stronger garlic flavor)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken)
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup cooked rice or egg noodles (optional, for a heartier soup)
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Add the Broth and Veggies: Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  3. Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots and celery are tender.
  4. Add the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through for 5-7 minutes. Taste the soup and add salt to your liking.
  5. Optional Additions: If you like a heartier soup, add in the cooked rice or egg noodles at this stage and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the noodles or rice are tender and the soup is fully heated.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill for a burst of color and freshness. If desired, serve with a lemon wedge on the side to add a fresh, zesty note to each bowl.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~250-300 kcal (depending on whether rice or noodles are added)
  • Protein: ~25-30 g
  • Fat: ~7-9 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~25-30 g
  • Fiber: ~3-5 g
  • Sugars: ~5-7 g
  • Sodium: ~700-900 mg (depending on broth used)
  • Vitamin A: ~80-90% of the Daily Value (from carrots)
  • Calcium: ~5-8% of the Daily Value (from broth and vegetables)

Notes:

  • Chicken Options: You can use any cooked chicken for this soup, whether it’s from a rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or freshly cooked chicken breast. Shred the chicken before adding it to the soup for an even distribution.
  • Garlic Intensity: If you’re a fan of garlic, feel free to increase the number of garlic cloves in the recipe. You can also roast the garlic first to mellow out its flavor for a sweeter, more subtle taste.
  • Vegetable Options: You can add other vegetables to the soup, like parsnips, zucchini, or spinach, depending on what you have available. Add these in during the simmering stage so they cook through without becoming too soft.
  • Make-Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just be aware that the texture of the rice or noodles may change once frozen and reheated.

This Chicken Garlic Soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will leave you feeling cozy and nourished. Perfect for cooler days or when you need a little extra boost!