Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

This anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup is a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it not only warms you up but also provides numerous health benefits. This easy one-pot recipe showcases the natural goodness of turmeric, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nourishing and Healthy: Packed with veggies and spices, this soup supports your immune system and overall well-being.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just one hour, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein options to suit your tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made with coconut milk, this recipe is perfect for those avoiding dairy while still enjoying creamy soups.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best anti inflammatory turmeric chicken soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: A good-sized pot is crucial for combining all ingredients without spilling over.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise cutting of vegetables, making prep faster.
• Ladle: This tool helps serve the soup easily without mess.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large leek, halved lengthwise, thinly sliced
• 3 large carrots, thinly sliced
• 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced

Aromatics

• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Spices

• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 13.5 ounce can coconut milk
• 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless thighs or breasts

Optional Additions

• 1 10 ounce bag frozen peas (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté 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 the leeks are soft and starting to caramelize, about 14-16 minutes.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add chopped garlic, turmeric, and poultry seasoning. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the spices and garlic become fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk while adding raw chicken to the pot. Scrape up any stuck bits from the pot. Ensure the chicken is submerged beneath the broth. Partially cover the pot and bring it to a bare simmer. Let it cook on low until the chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender—around 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove the lid from the pot. Take out the chicken onto a cutting board to cool slightly. Cut into bite-sized pieces or shred using two forks. Return the chicken to the pot along with frozen peas (if using) and fresh parsley. Bring back to a slow simmer for about 5 minutes until peas are bright green and tender.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

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

How to Serve Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Serving your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup can enhance the meal experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this nourishing soup.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread: Spread some garlic butter on a slice of bread for added flavor and aroma.

Add a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad provide a delightful contrast to the soup’s warmth.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or cilantro over each bowl for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Adding a squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors and adds brightness to the dish.

How to Perfect Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

To achieve the best results with your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup, consider these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs yield better flavor than their dried counterparts.
• Cook Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer slowly helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving for optimal seasoning.
• Shred the Chicken Well: Shredded chicken pieces distribute evenly throughout the soup, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

Enjoying your Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup is easy when you have delicious side dishes. Here are some options that complement this healthy meal beautifully.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds protein and crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots provide additional nutrients and flavors.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes a hearty side that pairs well with soup.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits without overpowering the meal.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins can add a comforting touch alongside your savory soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans offer a filling complement to the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Too Much Heat: Cooking on high heat can cause the coconut milk to split. Always simmer gently to maintain a creamy texture.
• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop veggies and garlic beforehand can slow down your cooking process. Prep all ingredients first for a smooth experience.
• Overcooking Chicken: Chicken should be cooked just until tender. Overcooking can lead to dry meat. Monitor it closely during the simmering phase.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the soup before serving! Always adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish. Don’t skip this step for a fresh finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health benefits of Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

This soup is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and chicken broth, which support immune health and overall well-being.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for added protein.

How do I customize my Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup?

Feel free to add other veggies like spinach or kale, or switch up spices according to your taste preferences.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Anti Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup offers comfort and nourishment in each bowl. Its versatility allows you to easily customize flavors or ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!