High Protein Chicken Soup Recipe

This high-protein chicken soup is a little different from the usual. I love how it packs a punch of protein without sacrificing comfort or flavor. It’s a simple, honest bowl that feels like a warm hug after a long day or a quick, nourishing lunch.

Why I keep coming back to this recipe

It’s honest, filling, and adaptable. Whenever I need a quick fix that feels wholesome without fuss, this soup delivers. Plus, the protein makes it satisfying for longer, and I love the way the flavors deepen after a day or two. It’s a recipe I trust to nourish and comfort, no matter the season.

Breaking down the ingredients

• Chicken breast: Lean, quick-cooking protein. Swap for turkey or tofu if you prefer; keep the texture tender.
• Onions and garlic: Builds a fragrant base, essential for flavor. Use shallots for a milder, sweeter note.
• Carrots and celery: Add sweetness and crunch, balancing the savory broth. Parboil slightly for softer texture.
• Chicken broth: Rich and savory, or swap for homemade or veggie broth for a lighter taste.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley or cilantro brighten the dish. Basil or thyme offer a different aromatic lift.
• Salt and pepper: Fundamental seasoning, adjust at the end for best flavor.
• Lemon or vinegar: A splash brightens the dish, awakening all the flavors.

Tools of the trade for a perfect bowl

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: For even heat distribution and simmering without sticking.
• Sharp knife: Chopping vegetables and chicken efficiently.
• Cutting board: Safe space for prep work.
• Ladle: Serving the soup with ease.
• Measuring spoons and cups: Accurate seasoning and broth measurement.

Step-by-step to a hearty, protein-packed bowl

Step 1: Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your pot over medium heat.

Step 2: Add a splash of oil, then sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Toss in diced chicken breast, cook until lightly browned, roughly 5-6 minutes, stirring often.

Step 4: Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 20 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 5: Add vegetables like carrots and celery, simmer another 10 minutes until tender.

Step 6: Finish with herbs, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

High-Protein Chicken Soup

This hearty chicken soup is made with tender diced chicken breast, aromatic onions and garlic, and a medley of vegetables simmered in flavorful broth. The result is a comforting, protein-packed bowl with a clear, inviting broth and tender ingredients, perfect for a nourishing meal. Its simple preparation and deepening flavors over time make it an ideal go-to for quick, wholesome eating.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups chicken broth rich and savory
• 1 lb chicken breast diced
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 carrots carrots sliced
• 2 stalks celery sliced
• to taste salt and pepper adjusted at the end
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
• a handful fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• 1 splash lemon juice or vinegar brightens the flavor

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle
• Measuring spoons and cups

Method

 

1. Gather all your ingredients, then preheat your large pot over medium heat.
2. Add olive oil to the pot and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The onions should be soft and slightly golden, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma.
3. Stir in diced chicken breast and cook until it starts to brown lightly, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The chicken will turn opaque and firm up, releasing a mild aroma.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, then increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the chicken to become tender.
5. Add sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the broth is flavorful.
6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Finish by stirring in a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors, then sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
7. Use a ladle to serve the hot, hearty soup into bowls. Garnish with extra herbs if desired and enjoy this comforting, protein-rich meal that’s perfect after a long day or for a quick lunch.

Cooking checkpoints to keep your soup perfect

• Chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink inside.
• Vegetables need to be tender but not mushy, testing with a fork.
• Broth should be flavorful, not dull or overly salty.
• Herbs should be freshly added at the end for maximum aroma.

Common mistakes and how to fix them

• Soup too gloopy or salty.? Add more broth or water if the soup is too thick or concentrated.
• Burnt bits or scorched flavor.? Reduce heat if ingredients start to burn or stick to the bottom.
• Lack of brightness or depth in taste.? Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten flavors if too bland.
• Undercooked chicken.? Ensure chicken is cooked through; if not, simmer longer or cut into smaller pieces.

This soup isn’t just about boosting your protein intake; it’s about the comfort of knowing each spoonful is doing good work for your body. It’s straightforward, honest, and flexible enough to adapt to whatever you’ve got in the fridge. Plus, it keeps well, so you can enjoy it over a couple of days or freeze for later. Dive in with a spoon, and let each warm mouthful remind you that good food fuels good days.

Olivia

Hi there! I’m Olivia Chen-Williams, a 54-year-old late-blooming cook, career coach, and the face behind Turn Around At 50 – a food blog that proves it’s never too late to start something new (even if your first attempt burns to a crisp!).