Chicken soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy to prepare or a hearty soup to feed the family, these 10 chicken soup recipes will hit the spot. From classic favorites to creative twists, each recipe is designed to be simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights. Let’s dive into these 10 quick and easy chicken soups that will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
Table of Contents
Easy Chicken Soups
1. Eazy Chicken Noodle Soup
A true classic, chicken noodle soup is a comforting go-to for any occasion. It’s warm, soothing, and the perfect recipe to satisfy both the body and soul. This soup is ideal for those cold days when you need something nourishing, and it’s incredibly easy to make.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Egg noodles or any pasta of choice
- Carrots, celery, onion
- Chicken broth (low-sodium for a healthier option)
- Garlic and fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or bay leaves)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Why This Recipe Works:
The beauty of chicken noodle soup lies in its simplicity. The key is in the broth—it should be flavorful but not overly salty. For a richer taste, you can use bone broth or a combination of stock and broth. If you want extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to balance the soup and bring out its depth.
Quick Tip:
To save time, consider using a rotisserie chicken. Simply shred it and add it to the broth along with the vegetables and noodles. This method drastically reduces the cooking time while still delivering a comforting, homemade soup.
2. Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
For a creamy, hearty meal, this chicken and rice soup is a delicious option. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich creaminess makes it the perfect soup for any time of year.
What You’ll Need:
- Shredded chicken (use leftover chicken for efficiency)
- White rice or brown rice (cooked or uncooked)
- Heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version, use half-and-half)
- Chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
- Onions, garlic, and herbs (thyme or rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Why This Recipe Works:
This soup is hearty and filling, making it a great choice for a meal in itself. The creamy texture is achieved by adding heavy cream or a mixture of milk and flour, thickening the broth into a smooth, velvety soup. For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream with a bit of coconut milk, which adds a subtle flavor and keeps the soup rich without being overly heavy.
Quick Tip:
Use pre-cooked rice to make this soup even faster. Simply add it toward the end of cooking to avoid overcooking the rice. If you prefer more texture, leave the rice to cook directly in the broth, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
3. Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
For those who love a bit of spice, this spicy chicken tortilla soup brings bold flavors to the table. A great choice for a hearty and slightly spicy dinner, it combines savory chicken, fresh veggies, and crispy tortilla strips.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Taco seasoning (or make your own with chili powder, cumin, and garlic)
- Tortilla strips (store-bought or homemade)
- Lime juice, avocado, and fresh cilantro for garnish
Why This Recipe Works:
This soup packs a punch with its blend of spices and textures. The crispy tortilla strips provide a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken and savory broth. By using canned ingredients like black beans and corn, this soup can be put together quickly without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Tip:
To add more heat, use a spicy salsa or extra chili powder. You can also boost the richness by adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top just before serving.
4. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This bright and refreshing lemon chicken orzo soup is a light yet filling meal, with a burst of citrusy flavor that lifts your spirits and satisfies your hunger. The combination of lemon and orzo adds a fresh twist to the traditional chicken soup.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Orzo pasta (or any small pasta like ditalini)
- Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest
- Carrots, celery, and onions
- Fresh dill (optional)
- Chicken broth
Why This Recipe Works:
The addition of lemon gives this soup a light, refreshing flavor, while the orzo pasta adds a delicate texture. This is the perfect soup for warmer weather or when you’re craving something a little lighter. You can even serve it chilled for a unique take on the classic.
Quick Tip:
For extra creaminess without adding heavy cream, whisk in a beaten egg towards the end of cooking. The egg will create a silky texture that pairs beautifully with the lemony broth.
5. Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)
Take your chicken soup to the next level with this Thai-inspired coconut chicken soup. The rich coconut milk, combined with fresh herbs and spices like lemongrass and ginger, creates a flavorful, aromatic soup that is both soothing and exciting to the taste buds.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Coconut milk
- Lemongrass stalks, ginger, garlic, and lime juice
- Mushrooms (optional, but add great texture)
- Fish sauce or soy sauce
- Red chili paste for heat
Why This Recipe Works:
Tom Kha Gai is known for its balance of creamy coconut milk and tangy, aromatic flavors. The lemongrass and ginger give this soup a fragrant, herbal kick, while the coconut milk adds richness. For those who enjoy heat, a spoonful of chili paste makes it as spicy as you like.
Quick Tip:
Use jarred curry paste to save time, or if you’re in a pinch, a few dashes of chili powder and ginger powder can do the trick. This recipe is incredibly adaptable—feel free to add baby spinach, tofu, or even rice noodles for a more substantial meal.
6. Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Packed with a variety of vegetables, this chicken soup is light, healthy, and easy to make. It’s perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more veggies into their diet or seeking a simple, nutrient-dense meal.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken (breast or thighs)
- Carrots, celery, zucchini, spinach, or other veggies of choice
- Chicken broth
- Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence
- Salt and pepper to taste
Why This Recipe Works:
This vegetable-packed soup is a low-calorie option that’s perfect for those trying to eat lighter without sacrificing flavor. You can easily swap out vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Spinach, kale, and sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this soup, making it both nutritious and filling.
Quick Tip:
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a tablespoon of vinegar just before serving for an extra burst of flavor that brightens the soup and balances the richness of the broth.
7. Chicken Corn Chowder
Sweet corn and creamy potatoes make this chicken corn chowder a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for cool weather. The sweetness of the corn balances out the savory chicken, creating a satisfying soup.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- Heavy cream or milk
- Bacon (optional, for added smokiness)
- Chicken broth
Why This Recipe Works:
This chowder is both creamy and hearty, thanks to the potatoes and corn. The bacon adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall richness of the soup. You can make this soup even more indulgent by using full-fat cream, or lighten it by opting for half-and-half or coconut milk.
Quick Tip:
If you’re in a rush, canned corn works just fine. You can also use frozen corn if you don’t have fresh. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top before serving.
8. Ginger Chicken Soup
Ginger has long been celebrated for its medicinal properties, and when combined with chicken, it creates a healing, aromatic soup that’s perfect for boosting your immune system.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions
- Carrots and celery
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free version)
Why This Recipe Works:
The ginger adds a fresh, zesty flavor that’s not only delicious but also great for digestion. The broth is light yet flavorful, with the ginger giving it a refreshing kick. If you’re feeling under the weather, this is the perfect soup to make!
Quick Tip:
If you like your soup with a bit of heat, add fresh chili peppers or a spoonful of chili paste. Ginger and heat make a perfect pairing!
9. Chicken Mushroom Soup
This chicken mushroom soup is earthy, hearty, and full of umami. The combination of mushrooms and chicken makes it a robust and flavorful meal that’s easy to whip up.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake)
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley
Why This Recipe Works:
The mushrooms add a deep, savory flavor that enhances the chicken broth. This soup is rich yet light, thanks to the fresh herbs and the option to use cream. You can make it thicker by adding flour or cornstarch to the broth if desired.
Quick Tip:
Sauté the mushrooms first to bring out their natural flavors before adding them to the broth. This step enhances the umami and deepens the flavor profile of the soup.
10. Chicken and Sweet Potato Soup
Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness to this chicken and sweet potato soup, making it a filling, hearty meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Sweet potatoes
- Onion, garlic, and spinach
- Chicken broth
- Spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and chili powder
Why This Recipe Works:
The sweetness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken and spices. This soup is perfect for anyone looking for a filling, yet healthy option. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this an ideal soup for a balanced meal.
Quick Tip:
For a smoother texture, blend half the soup once the potatoes are soft. This will create a creamy consistency without adding any cream.
Conclusion
There’s no denying the magic of a warm bowl of chicken soup, especially when it’s quick and easy to make. From classic recipes to international flavors, these 10 chicken soup recipes prove that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create something delicious. Whether you’re feeding your family or simply treating yourself, these soups are guaranteed to satisf you. Try one tonight, and let the comforting aroma fill your home!