Paleo Chicken Soup
Paleo chicken soup is a hearty, nourishing dish that is free from grains, dairy, and processed ingredients, making it perfect for anyone following the Paleo diet. This comforting soup is packed with lean protein from chicken, nutrient-rich vegetables, and healthy fats, making it an ideal meal for those seeking a wholesome, low-carb, and nutrient-dense dish.
It’s a simple yet flavorful soup that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a fresh salad. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or heal from an illness, Paleo chicken soup provides the perfect balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional)
4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
4 cups water
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground turmeric (optional, for extra anti-inflammatory benefits)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for a hint of brightness)
How to Make Paleo Chicken Soup
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until it’s browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add the carrots, celery, zucchini, and sweet potato to the pot. Stir the vegetables and cook for another 5-6 minutes to allow them to start softening and absorbing the flavors of the onion and garlic.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine the vegetables with the liquid.
Add the dried thyme, oregano, turmeric (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. You can either shred the chicken in the pot or on a cutting board and then add it back to the soup once it’s shredded.
Step 5: Add the Greens
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chopped kale or spinach to the soup. Stir the soup and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the greens have wilted and softened.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
If desired, add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the soup.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Chef’s Notes
Chicken Options: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and more moist texture. Bone-in chicken is also a great choice, and you can simmer it with the bones for added depth in flavor.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on what you have on hand. Parsnips, turnips, or butternut squash are all great alternatives to sweet potatoes. You can also add some cauliflower for extra nutrients.
Flavor Boosters: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be added for an extra burst of flavor. For a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper during the sautéing process.
Make-Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will develop even further as it sits. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Low-Sodium Options: If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for homemade or low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 300
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Vitamin A: 130% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 30% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 6% of the Daily Value
Iron: 12% of the Daily Value
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.)
Paleo chicken soup is a flavorful, nourishing dish that supports a healthy lifestyle while being easy to make. It’s filled with wholesome ingredients, including protein-packed chicken and antioxidant-rich vegetables, which are essential for maintaining good health. Perfect for anyone following a Paleo diet or anyone simply looking for a delicious, low-carb meal, this soup is sure to become a go-to in your meal planning rotation. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this healthy chicken soup that’s perfect for any time of year.