Cozy nights call for comfort foods that warm our hearts and bellies. One of the most beloved and versatile comfort foods is, without a doubt, chicken soup. Whether you’re looking to soothe a cold or simply crave a satisfying meal, there’s nothing quite like a steaming hot bowl of homemade chicken soup. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 comforting chicken soup recipes from around the world, each with its own unique flavors and textures. From classic noodle soups to creamy and spicy variations, we’ve got you covered for those chilly evenings when all you want is a warm hug in a bowl.
Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A warm and comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup is just what the doctor ordered when you’re feeling under the weather. This classic recipe is a staple for any home cook, using simple ingredients to create a deliciously soothing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of cream with the nutty taste of wild rice, all wrapped up in a delicious chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend (such as brown rice, wild rice, and quinoa)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little chicken broth until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the wild rice blend, remaining chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a twist on traditional chicken noodle soup, with the added kick of Thai red curry paste and coconut milk. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
3. Add curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add vegetables, coconut milk, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this zesty and comforting soup, featuring tender chicken, nutty orzo, and a burst of citrusy flavor from fresh lemons.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly squeezed lemon juice from 2 lemons
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the broth, water, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in the orzo pasta and lemon juice. Continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a warm tortilla, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, and sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in broth, tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Add tortilla strips to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they are slightly softened.
5. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
This classic comfort food recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a busy day when you need a warm, nourishing meal. With minimal effort and only a few ingredients, this slow cooker chicken and dumplings dish will become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 dumpling mix (see note)
– 2 tbsp of butter
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, chicken broth, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, mix dumpling mix with flour and butter to form a dough.
4. Drop the dough by spoonfuls into the slow cooker, covering the top of the chicken mixture.
5. Continue cooking until the dumplings are cooked through and the chicken is tender.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
This classic Greek soup is a comforting and flavorful blend of chicken, vegetables, and avgolemono (egg-lemon) sauce. With its bright citrus flavor and velvety texture, it’s a perfect remedy for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in olive oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, garlic, and cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Beat the egg and lemon juice together in a bowl. Gradually add the hot soup mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
4. Return the soup to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)
Experience the warmth of Vietnam with this comforting and flavorful chicken noodle soup, served with a rich and aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Slice cooked chicken into thin strips and add to the broth.
5. Assemble Pho by placing noodles in a bowl, topping with chicken, and ladling the hot broth over.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. A warm and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add chicken, corn kernels, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Harira Chicken Soup
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup that’s both nourishing and flavorful, perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, mixed vegetables, and chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food recipe that can be prepared in no time! With the Instant Pot, you can cook chicken and vegetables to perfection with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and potato. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus 5 minutes natural release)
Chicken Matzo Ball Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade Chicken Matzo Ball Soup! This classic Jewish dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 matzo balls (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add garlic, broth, and parsley; bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve hot with matzo balls.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Serve it warm with some crusty bread for a cozy meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little oil until cooked through.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Barley Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty barley creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the pearl barley, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Korean Dak Gomtang (Chicken Bone Soup)
A comforting and nourishing Korean soup made with chicken bones, vegetables, and a touch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken bones (necks, backs, or wings)
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: scallions, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the chicken bones for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, carrots, celery, and roasted chicken bones. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in water and add gochugaru. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including roasting time)
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Soup
This creamy, comforting soup combines the flavors of enchiladas with the warmth of chicken and cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, jalapeños, or tortilla chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, broth, milk, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food on a chilly day. Fresh spinach, chicken, and cheese-filled tortellini come together in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (about 12 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, oregano, and spinach. Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the soup pot. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Chicken Lentil Soup
This comforting and flavorful soup combines the warmth of curry with the tender goodness of chicken and lentils, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the lentils, broth, coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Minestrone
This comforting minestrone soup combines the flavors of chicken, quinoa, and vegetables in a nourishing and delicious one-pot meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and celery)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté chicken, garlic, and mixed vegetables in a little bit of oil until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and oregano. Stir well.
4. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Wild Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup combines tender chicken, earthy wild mushrooms, and aromatic herbs to create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, thyme, and rosemary; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these comforting chicken soup recipes! From classic homemade noodle soups to international twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try creamy wild rice soup, spicy Thai coconut soup, or hearty slow cooker dumplings. For a taste of the Mediterranean, make Greek avgolemono soup or Moroccan harira. If you’re short on time, whip up an Instant Pot chicken and vegetable soup or opt for a comforting bowl of matzo ball soup. With 20 delicious recipes to choose from, there’s no excuse not to warm up with a bowl of goodness tonight!
