There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of chicken soup.
This nutritious chicken soup is packed with vegetables, tender chicken, and a bright touch of lemon for a healthy, hearty meal that nourishes body and soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s wholesome, packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables.
You can make it with raw chicken or save time with shredded rotisserie chicken.
The lemon juice adds brightness while the herbs bring fresh flavor.
Perfect for meal prep, leftovers, or when you’re feeling under the weather.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Carrots, celery, and potatoes form the hearty base of the soup.
Chicken breasts add lean protein, while rotisserie chicken makes it extra convenient.
Chicken broth keeps it rich and comforting.
Lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the savory notes.
Fresh parsley and optional spinach add a nutrient boost.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Dice the vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate.
If using raw chicken, always check with a meat thermometer for doneness.
Use bone broth for added protein and depth of flavor.
Make a double batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.
How to Make Nutritious Chicken Soup
Step 1 – Prep the vegetables
Chop carrots, celery, potatoes, and onion.
Mince the garlic and remove thyme leaves from the stem.
Step 2 – Sauté the base
Heat olive oil in a large pot.
Cook the carrots, celery, potatoes, and onion until softened, about 6–8 minutes.
Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 – Add chicken and broth
If using raw chicken, add chicken breasts and broth.
Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 20–25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.
If using rotisserie chicken, add broth and simmer the vegetables for 20–25 minutes.
Add shredded chicken in the last 10 minutes.
Step 4 – Shred and return chicken
For raw chicken, remove breasts, shred with forks, then return to the soup.
Step 5 – Finish with freshness
Turn off heat. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and spinach (if using) until spinach wilts.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
What to Serve It With
Pair with crusty bread for dipping.
Serve alongside a green salad for a light, balanced meal.
Enjoy on its own as a nourishing one-pot dinner.
Variations / Substitutions
Use sweet potatoes instead of baby red potatoes for extra sweetness.
Add rice, quinoa, or noodles for a heartier soup.
Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Add spinach and lemon juice at the end.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Both boneless chicken breasts and rotisserie chicken work well. Breasts give you control over seasoning; rotisserie is quicker.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Just cool completely before freezing.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, baby red potatoes have tender skins that work perfectly in soup.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Final Thoughts
This nutritious chicken soup is comforting, customizable, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy weekends.
It’s light yet hearty, with fresh herbs and lemon that make every spoonful satisfying.
Nutritious Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Chop carrots, celery, potatoes, and onion. Mince garlic.
- Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté vegetables 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken and broth.
- Simmer 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred, and return to pot.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/nutritious-chicken-soup/
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Great with crusty bread or a side salad.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.