Anti-Inflammatory Creamy Chicken Soup
There’s something about a bowl of warm soup that feels like a hug from the inside, especially when it’s packed with flavors that soothe your body and soul. This Anti-Inflammatory Creamy Chicken Soup is exactly that kind of magic. It’s velvety smooth, with tender chicken, gentle spices, and a golden touch of turmeric that gives it a cozy glow. Plus, it’s loaded with ingredients known to calm inflammation—perfect for those chilly evenings when you want comfort without the guilt. If you’re a fan of creamy soups that don’t rely on heavy cream, you’re going to love how coconut milk adds that silky texture with a hint of tropical warmth. Ready to get cozy? Let’s dive in!
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt to taste
How I Make It
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, letting that natural sweetness bloom. Add the garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until your kitchen smells amazing.
Step 2:
Sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, and black pepper. Stir well for about a minute—this wakes up the spices and ensures they’re fragrant before adding liquid.
Step 3:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, stir in the carrots and celery. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
Step 4:
Now, stir in the coconut milk, then add the shredded chicken. Let everything simmer together for another 8–10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the soup to thicken just a bit.
Step 5:
Finally, toss in your kale or spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until the greens are wilted but still vibrant. Finish off with a squeeze of lemon juice and salt to taste.
Step 6:
Ladle the soup into bowls and savor that golden color and creamy texture. If you want a little more brightness, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro works beautifully!
Variations & Tips
- Swap kale for Swiss chard or baby spinach depending on what you have on hand.
- For extra protein, toss in chickpeas or white beans along with the chicken.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend half of it and stir back into the pot.
- Not a fan of coconut? Heavy cream or cashew cream make great substitutes, just add near the end.
- Adjust turmeric and ginger for your preferred bite—more turmeric for earthiness, more ginger for zing!
How I Like to Serve It
This soup is a star on chilly nights paired with a crusty whole-grain bread or warm garlic naan. It’s also fantastic as a nourishing lunch, wrapped up in a blanket with a good book or your favorite cozy TV show. For a fresh touch, a side salad with citrus vinaigrette brightens the meal nicely.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove to avoid separating the coconut milk’s creaminess.
Closing: This soup is like a kitchen hug that always hits the spot—warm, soothing, and just downright good for you every single time.