Healthy Chicken And Kale Soup

Name: Healthy Chicken And Kale Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups kale, chopped; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Classics

I love making Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup on chilly days when comfort food is a must. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for its hearty flavors and nutritional benefits. The vibrant greens of kale not only add depth to the soup, but they also pack a punch of vitamins. The tender chicken really soaks up the savory broth, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and good for you. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:37:37.631Z

I’ve experimented with various soup recipes, but this Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup stands out due to its balance of flavors and nutritional benefits. Using bone broth as a base not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the health factor. I add carrots and celery for extra crunch and sweetness, making this soup a perfect harmony of textures.

One of my favorite tips is to sauté the onions first until they are translucent – this step makes such a difference in flavor. I always keep some kale on hand because it's so versatile, and this soup is my go-to for using it up. Delicious and nourishing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with nutrients from fresh kale and lean chicken
Light yet filling, perfect for any meal of the day
Rich, savory broth with a hint of brightness from lemon

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients in this Healthy Chicken and Kale Soup directly impacts the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Fresh kale, for example, offers a vibrant green color and a slight bitterness that balances the savory flavors of the broth. When choosing kale, look for leaves that are deep green and crisp, avoiding any that are wilted or yellowed. Fresh carrots and celery also add natural sweetness and crunch, enhancing the soup's overall texture and flavor profile.

I recommend using low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the saltiness of your soup. This allows you to savor the natural flavors of the vegetables and chicken without overwhelming them. If you prefer a lower-calorie option, homemade broth is easy to make. Just simmer chicken bones with water, onion, and aromatics for a couple of hours. It will infuse the dish with a rich depth that store-bought broth often lacks.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

The order in which you add ingredients during cooking can significantly affect the soup's flavors. Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding other vegetables creates a fragrant base that adds layers of taste. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic, as burnt aromatics can impart a bitter taste. Stir regularly until the onion is translucent and smells sweet, around five minutes, ensuring you develop a rich flavor without risking overcooking.

When cooking the chicken in the broth, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This not only makes sure the chicken is safely cooked but also helps avoid a dry texture. After shredding the chicken, return it to the pot for another simmer, allowing it to soak up the herbs and spices. This method keeps the chicken juicy, ensuring each bite is delectably tender.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups kale, chopped
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Juice of 1 lemon

Adjust the ingredients to your taste for a personalized soup experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced carrots and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts into the simmering broth and cook until fully cooked through, approximately 15-20 minutes. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.

Incorporate Kale

Stir in the chopped kale and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is tender. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

Serve hot and enjoy the warmth of this hearty soup!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding herbs such as thyme or dill while the soup simmers. They enhance the taste beautifully and make it even more aromatic.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be enjoyed reheated on busy weekdays. To store, make sure the soup has cooled completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. If you plan to freeze it, use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to three months, maintaining its delicious quality when reheated correctly.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat to maintain the integrity of the kale and chicken. If the soup becomes too thick after freezing, simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating to achieve the desired consistency. Stir regularly to ensure even heating and prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Consider pairing this hearty soup with a slice of whole-grain bread or a light side salad for a complete meal. The bright acidity of lemon used in the soup can also be echoed with a citrusy vinaigrette on the salad, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you want to make it more filling, serve it over a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice to turn it into a wholesome grain bowl.

For a gourmet touch, you could top the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving. This not only adds a lovely richness but also a visual appeal to the dish, making it perfect for inviting guests or family dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require additional cooking time.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day!

→ What are some variations I can try?

You can add other vegetables like zucchini or potato, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.