Healthy Chicken And Kale Soup

Name: Healthy Chicken And Kale Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups kale, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Wellness Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup, especially on chilly evenings. The combination of tender chicken, nutrient-rich kale, and aromatic herbs offers a comforting bowl that warms both the body and soul. As we savor each spoonful, I can’t help but appreciate how easy it is to prepare this dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies for a balanced meal that the whole family enjoys. I often make a big batch to enjoy for lunch throughout the week!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:20:54.920Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup, I wanted to craft a dish that was both nourishing and delicious. The secret came in using quality chicken breast and lots of fresh kale. I found that sautéing garlic and onion before adding the chicken creates a flavor base that really shines through.

Through trial and error, I discovered that simmering the soup slowly allows the vegetables to soften beautifully while keeping everything tender. I suggest adding a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright finish that elevates the flavors even more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty yet light, perfect for any season
Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients
Ideal for meal prep, making it great for busy weeks

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of chicken breast in this soup not only contributes lean protein but also absorbs the rich flavors of the broth. When diced into small pieces, it cooks quickly and evenly, ensuring a tender texture. For an even heartier version, you could substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken, which adds depth without the extra cooking time. Whichever option you choose, make sure the chicken is adequately seasoned to enhance the overall taste of the soup.

Kale is the star vegetable in this recipe, offering a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K. Its hearty nature holds up well in the broth, remaining slightly chewy even after cooking. If kale isn't available, Swiss chard or spinach could serve as great alternatives, providing a different flavor profile but maintaining a similar texture. However, remember that spinach cooks down significantly, so you'll want to use about double the volume for a satisfying quantity in the soup.

Cooking Technique Tips

Sautéing the onion and garlic is crucial for building flavor as this step creates a flavor base for the soup. Ensure your oil is heated properly before adding the onions; they should sizzle immediately upon contact. Cook until they’re translucent and soft, approximately five minutes; this not only enhances their sweetness but also helps release their natural oils, transforming the dish's profile.

When adding the broth and vegetables, consider using low-sodium chicken broth to better control salt levels, allowing you to adjust seasoning to your preference. The key is to bring the soup to a rolling boil first, then immediately lower the heat to a gentle simmer. This technique conserves the nutrients while ensuring that the vegetables become tender without losing their vibrant colors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a wholesome soup!

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups kale, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to make this delicious soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the chopped kale, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If using, stir in lemon juice before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

Enjoy a warm bowl of soup that’s both hearty and healthy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding your favorite herbs like parsley for a fresh touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat portions on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until steaming hot. However, be mindful that the kale will continue to soften in storage, so if you enjoy a firmer texture, adding fresh kale just before serving can be a delightful touch.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove. If the soup thickens during freezing, you can always stir in a splash of additional broth or water during reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup, try garnishing each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds another layer of flavor. Serve it with crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a complete meal that feels satisfying without being heavy.

You can tailor this soup to suit various dietary preferences easily. For a gluten-free option, ensure you’re using gluten-free broth and consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of bread. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can bring warmth and depth to your bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to fully cook it and check the internal temperature is 165°F.

→ What can I substitute for kale?

You can use spinach or Swiss chard as substitutes for kale, but remember that cooking times may vary slightly.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.