Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is a delicious and nourishing dish that warms your soul. It blends vibrant spices, wholesome vegetables, and tender chicken into a comforting one-pot meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this soup is not only hearty but also packed with anti-inflammatory benefits. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a cozy dinner option, this soup is a fantastic choice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and uses just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of turmeric, garlic, and fresh herbs gives this soup a rich and aromatic flavor.
• Versatile: Great for any occasion—serve it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and lean protein, this soup supports your immune system while being dairy-free and gluten-free.
• Meal prep friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully for easy meals on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools beforehand. Proper tools can enhance the cooking process and yield better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

This anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup is made in one pot with leeks, onions, carrots, celery, peas, chicken, chicken broth, coconut milk, and flavorful spices. It is packed with veggies and perfect for meal prep or family dinner.

• 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

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add onions, leeks, carrots, celery, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté while stirring occasionally until leeks are soft and starting to caramelize—about 14–16 minutes.

Step 2: Add Spices

Add chopped garlic, turmeric, and poultry seasoning to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 2–3 minutes while stirring frequently until the spices are fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk. Add raw chicken to the pot while scraping up any stuck-on bits. Bring it to a bare simmer; ensure that the chicken is submerged beneath the broth. Partially cover the pot and simmer on low until cooked through—about 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove the lid from the pot. Take out the chicken onto a cutting board; let it cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized pieces or shredding it with two forks. Return chicken to the pot along with frozen peas (if using) and fresh parsley. Bring back to a slow simmer for about five minutes until peas are bright green.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season your soup with additional salt and pepper according to taste. Serve garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup!

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Serving your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup can elevate the dining experience, making it even more nourishing and enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and added flavor.
• Cilantro: Add cilantro for a fresh twist that complements the soup’s spices.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Sourdough: Serve with a slice of crusty sourdough bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a savory side that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.

Adding Protein

• Grilled Chicken: For an extra protein boost, top the soup with grilled chicken slices.
• Tofu Crumbles: For a vegetarian option, add crispy tofu crumbles to the bowl.

Garnishing Options

• Lemon Wedges: Provide lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors.
• Chili Flakes: Offer chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their soup.

How to Perfect Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Creating the perfect Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is both delicious and nourishing.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices will enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, then adjust according to taste as it cooks.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps blend the flavors without breaking down the coconut milk.
• Shred Chicken for Texture: Shredding the chicken instead of cubing it can provide a more tender bite in each spoonful.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach for added nutrients and variety.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

Best Side Dishes for Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup can create a wholesome meal. Here are some tasty options that complement this soup perfectly.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
2. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad brings nutty flavors that go well with the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes make a hearty side.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors beautifully when served alongside.
5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on whole-grain toast adds healthy fats and texture.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the soup’s spices nicely.
7. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips dipped in hummus provide a satisfying snack element.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Serve baked sweet potatoes as a filling side that enhances nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring the sautéing time: Sautéing your vegetables properly enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; aim for 14-16 minutes until they caramelize slightly.
• Skipping the seasoning adjustments: A well-seasoned soup is crucial. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end to suit your preference.
• Boiling instead of simmering: Boiling can cause coconut milk to split, altering the texture. Keep it at a gentle simmer for best results.
• Not using fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip it; add it just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone. Remove it as soon as it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently on medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup:

Can I use other proteins?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option while keeping the soup deliciously nutritious.

What if I can’t find turmeric?

If fresh turmeric isn’t available, you can use ground turmeric as a substitute, though fresh offers more vibrant flavor.

How do I make this soup spicier?

For added spice, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored easily, making it convenient for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is not only comforting but also flexible enough to suit various dietary needs. Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies or different proteins. Don’t hesitate to give this nourishing recipe a try—it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep!