Ultimate Comfort: Easy & Healthy Ginger Chicken Soup Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Ginger Chicken Soup is truly the ultimate comfort in a bowl, a culinary hug that warms you from the inside out. This delightful recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare in a matter of minutes but is also perfect for freezing, ensuring you have quick, nourishing meals on hand all season long. Whether you’re battling a winter chill, feeling under the weather, or simply craving something wholesome and satisfying, this soup delivers unparalleled coziness and flavor.

As the crisp autumn air transitions into the deep chill of winter, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade soup to soothe the soul. This Ginger Chicken Soup is your perfect ticket to culinary coziness, offering a blend of robust flavors and therapeutic warmth that makes it a true kitchen hero. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting ritual, a bowl full of wellness, and a simple joy to look forward to.

What truly sets this particular recipe apart is its remarkable simplicity and incredible adaptability. You can effortlessly customize it with your family’s favorite vegetables, transforming it into a vibrant medley of colors and textures. From crunchy carrots and crisp bell peppers to tender spinach or peas, the possibilities are endless. But no matter which fresh ingredients you choose to incorporate, it’s the invigorating zest of fresh ginger that truly elevates this dish, infusing it with a unique realm of comfort and warmth that is utterly sublime and defies simple description.

To complete your comforting meal, consider pairing this exquisite soup with a side of Rosemary Focaccia bread, hot and fragrant straight from the oven, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth. Alternatively, add a delightful textural contrast by topping your soup with crunchy Homemade Croutons. Whether you are searching for an incredibly easy weeknight dinner solution or a deeply soul-soothing lunch, this ginger chicken soup is destined to become your absolute go-to winter comfort food, a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Ginger Chicken Soup

This isn’t just another chicken soup recipe; it’s a carefully crafted dish designed to bring ease, warmth, and deliciousness to your table. Here’s why this ginger chicken soup will quickly become a household favorite:

• Simplicity and Speed: In our increasingly fast-paced lives, finding recipes that are both heartwarming and quick to prepare is a true blessing. This Ginger Chicken Soup recipe is a genuine lifesaver, allowing you to whip up this comforting bowl in a matter of minutes. Its minimal prep and cooking time make it the perfect solution for those busy weeknight dinners when you crave something warm, homemade, and nourishing without all the fuss and extensive culinary effort. It’s faster and healthier than most takeout options!
• Customize It to Your Heart’s Content: Think of this soup as a versatile canvas eagerly awaiting your creative touch. It truly is a dish that invites personalization. You can easily add an array of your family’s favorite vegetables, like sweet carrots, crisp bell peppers, leafy spinach, or tender peas, to enhance both its nutritional value and flavor profile. It’s a wonderfully versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that effortlessly adapts to diverse tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table finds something to love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different greens or even a touch of corn.
• It’ll Warm You Up and Soothe Your Soul: The true star of this culinary show is undoubtedly ginger, and its role extends far beyond merely adding flavor. Ginger infuses the soup with a unique, deeply soothing warmth that transcends mere taste. Each generous spoonful wraps you in a comforting embrace, making this recipe an absolute godsend for chasing away those stubborn winter chills or providing gentle solace to a weary soul. Known for its medicinal properties, ginger is a natural remedy for colds and provides a comforting kick that feels wonderful.
• Effortlessly Freezer-Friendly: Imagine this scenario: you open your freezer on a particularly hectic day, and there, neatly stored, are perfectly portioned containers of this delectable soup. This recipe is incredibly freezer-friendly, allowing you to stock your freezer with a convenient stash of hearty, homemade meals. These ready-to-enjoy portions are a lifesaver, poised to rescue you on those demanding days when cooking from scratch feels utterly impossible, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to processed foods.

Essential Ingredients for Your Ginger Chicken Soup

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card.

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this magnificent soup. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips:

• Olive Oil: This forms the foundational base for sautéing our aromatics, adding a rich, subtle flavor to the soup’s profile.
• Onion: Any variety of yellow or white onion will work beautifully in this recipe, providing a sweet, pungent depth of flavor as it softens.
• Celery: Adds a fresh, crisp, and slightly peppery note, essential for the classic soup base and contributing to the aromatic foundation.
• Ginger: Crucially, fresh ginger is paramount for the best flavor in this application. Its vibrant, spicy, and warming notes are central to the soup’s character, so definitely skip the dried or paste varieties for this dish.
• Garlic: Using fresh cloves for the most robust and aromatic flavor is highly recommended. However, for added convenience, pre-minced garlic can be a suitable substitute if time is short.
• Turmeric: This golden spice adds a subtle earthy warmth and a beautiful color to the soup, along with its renowned anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Chicken Broth: Most chicken broths tend to be quite salty. Opt for low-sodium broths to maintain better control over the overall saltiness of your soup, allowing you to adjust to your personal preference.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for a lean and hearty soup. For a richer, more indulgent soup with a bit more fat and calories, you could substitute chicken thighs.
• Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce imparts a fantastic umami depth and a salty kick to the soup. Again, using a low-sodium variety is recommended to manage the salt content effectively.
• Black Pepper: If you possess a pepper mill, grinding fresh black pepper will undoubtedly offer the most punchy and aromatic flavor. However, pre-ground black pepper will still complement the recipe effectively.
• Cooked Jasmine Rice: Whether you prefer white or brown jasmine rice, either will work wonderfully. You can also easily substitute any other long-grained rice like Basmati for a similar texture and absorbency.
• Cilantro & Green Onions (Optional garnish): These fresh herbs add a final burst of vibrant flavor, freshness, and a beautiful visual appeal to each serving.

How To Prepare Your Delicious Ginger Chicken Soup

Crafting this comforting soup is a straightforward process, ensuring a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl every time:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onions and celery, sautéing them gently for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and become translucent, releasing their fragrant aromas. Next, stir in the fresh ginger, minced garlic, and turmeric, continuing to cook for another couple of minutes until the spices are wonderfully fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Build the Flavor Base & Cook Chicken: Carefully pour in the chicken broth, then add the whole chicken breasts and soy sauce to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer and cook for 13-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Combine and Warm Through: Return the shredded chicken immediately to the pot, allowing it to reabsorb some of the flavorful broth. Add the cooked jasmine rice and black pepper. Stir everything together gently and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring all the ingredients are thoroughly warmed through. At this stage, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt if necessary to enhance the flavors.
4. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls, ensuring each serving contains a good mix of chicken, rice, and vegetables. Finish by garnishing generously with fresh green onions and cilantro for an extra burst of vibrant flavor, freshness, and a beautiful pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth!

Recipe Tips & Delicious Variations

This Ginger Chicken Soup is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous adjustments to suit your personal taste and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Rice Variations: Don’t limit yourself to jasmine rice. Experiment with different types like basmati, which offers a slightly nuttier flavor, or brown rice for a chewier texture and added fiber. For a gluten-free option or a different texture, consider adding cooked quinoa or small pasta like orzo or vermicelli noodles instead of rice.
• Spice It Up: If you’re a connoisseur of heat, adding a pinch or two of red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage will infuse a lovely warmth. A drizzle of Sriracha or a few drops of chili oil just before serving can also provide a delightful spicy kick. For fresh heat, thinly sliced fresh chilies work wonders.
• Make It Creamy: For a lusciously creamy twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk (full-fat for richness, or light for a healthier option) or heavy cream just before serving. This adds an incredible richness and a hint of indulgence, transforming the soup into a velvety delight.
• Ginger Intensity: The amount of ginger can be adjusted to your taste preference. For a milder flavor, use less. If you’re suffering from a case of the sniffles or just adore ginger’s potent zing, don’t hesitate to add more – perhaps finely grating it to maximize its flavor release.
• Protein Swap: While chicken is the traditional star, feel free to explore other proteins. Cubed firm tofu can make for a wonderful vegetarian option. Shrimp or flaked fish can offer a delightful seafood twist, requiring a shorter cooking time. For a heartier vegetarian meal, consider adding beans (like cannellini or chickpeas) or lentils.
• Broth Choices: Enhance the depth of flavor by experimenting with various broths. While chicken broth is standard, a quality vegetable broth will create a delicious vegetarian version. For additional health benefits and a more robust, savory profile, consider using bone broth.
• Toppings Galore: Get truly creative with your toppings! Beyond green onions and cilantro, consider a dollop of cooling sour cream or Greek yogurt. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful of crispy fried onions, or even some toasted sesame seeds can add fantastic texture and flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime juice at the end brightens all the flavors.

Health Benefits of Ginger Chicken Soup

Beyond its incredible taste and comforting warmth, this Ginger Chicken Soup is packed with beneficial ingredients that contribute to your overall well-being:

• Immune Boosting: Ginger is renowned for its immune-boosting properties and is often used to combat colds and flu. When combined with garlic and turmeric, which also possess powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, this soup becomes a powerhouse for supporting your body’s defenses.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Both ginger and turmeric are well-known for their potent anti-inflammatory effects. This can be particularly soothing for aching bodies, reducing swelling and discomfort, making it an excellent choice when you’re feeling unwell.
• Digestive Aid: Ginger is a fantastic digestive aid, helping to soothe upset stomachs, reduce nausea, and promote healthy digestion. Enjoying this soup can help settle your system and ease digestive discomfort.
• Lean Protein Source: Chicken breasts provide a high-quality source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Protein also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Nutrient-Rich Vegetables: The onions, celery, and any additional vegetables you choose to add contribute a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting gut health and providing essential nutrients.
• Hydrating: A broth-based soup is an excellent way to stay hydrated, especially when you’re feeling under the weather. The warm liquid is soothing for a sore throat and helps to thin mucus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This soup is a dream for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat it effectively:

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Divide cooled soup into individual serving-sized, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay bags flat to freeze, then stack to save space. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, you can gently thaw it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or thawed soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until simmering and heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of extra broth or water if the soup seems too thick after reheating.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

With a soup this flavorful and satisfying, it’s not hard to find a perfect pairing to round out your dinner. Here are some delightful ideas:

• Butter Swim Biscuits – These biscuits are incredibly easy to make and capture an irresistible buttery flavor with barely any effort. I absolutely love to drop a big, fluffy chunk of biscuit right into my serving of soup, allowing it to soak up the delicious broth, ensuring a bit of biscuit with every comforting bite!
• Cheesecake Factory Brown Bread – I don’t think I’m alone in believing that often, the best part of a restaurant trip is the warm, crusty bread served at the start. You can effortlessly bring that joy and beloved flavor home with this delicious copycat recipe, perfect for a cozy meal.
• Garlic Bread – This quick and simple classic side dish is a surefire winner. Its savory, garlicky goodness will ensure that dinner satisfies everyone from the smallest to the largest of appetites, complementing the soup beautifully.
• A Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup, adding freshness and balance to your meal.

More Comforting Soup Recipes You’ll Love

If you’ve enjoyed this delightful Ginger Chicken Soup, you’re in for a treat! Here are more of our favorite soul-warming soup recipes that are perfect for any occasion, from brisk fall evenings to chilly winter nights:

• Zuppa Toscana
• Chicken Taco Soup
• Buffalo Chicken Chili
• Cheeseburger Soup
• Avgolemono Soup
• Chicken Pot Pie Soup

5 from 1 vote

Ginger Chicken Soup

By

Erin Sellin

Ginger Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort in a bowl! Whip it up in minutes, freeze it for quick meals, and relish the comfort all season long.

Prep:

10 minutes
mins

Cook:

15 minutes
mins

Total:

25 minutes
mins

Servings:
8

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Ingredients

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  Tablespoon
  
  olive oil
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  
  small onion
  ,
  finely chopped

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  ribs celery,
  finely chopped

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  Tablespoons
  
  fresh ginger
  ,
  finely chopped

• 
  ▢
  
  
  6
  cloves
  
  garlic
  ,
  minced

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1
  teaspoon
  
  turmeric
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  6
  cups
  
  low sodium chicken broth
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1 – 1 1/2
  pounds
  
  chicken breasts
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  2
  Tablespoons
  
  soy sauce
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  1/2
  teaspoon
  
  black pepper
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  3
  cups
  cooked jasmine rice

Garnish

• 
  ▢
  
  
  
  Cilantro
  

• 
  ▢
  
  
  
  Green Onions
  

Instructions

• In a large stock pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and celery and cook for 4-5 minutes until they just start to soften. Stir in the ginger, garlic, and turmeric; cook for a couple more minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 13-15 minutes, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through. Remove the chicken and use 2 forks to shred it.
• Add the shredded chicken back to the soup, along with the cooked rice and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through. Taste the soup and add salt if necessary to adjust the seasoning.
• Serve immediately, garnished generously with fresh green onions and cilantro.

Notes

Adapted from Kraft.
For an even healthier soup, load up on extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. They cook quickly and add more nutrients without compromising flavor.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
g

|

Calories:
275
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
22
g

|

Protein:
32
g

|

Fat:
6
g

|

Saturated Fat:
1
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
4
g

|

Cholesterol:
72
mg

|

Sodium:
347
mg

|

Fiber:
1
g

|

Sugar:
1
g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author:

Erin Sellin

Prep Time:

10 minutes
minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes
minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes
minutes

Course:
Dinner Recipes, Comfort Food

Cuisine:
American, Asian-Inspired

Servings:
8

Calories:
275

Keyword:
ginger chicken soup, easy soup, healthy soup, comfort food, chicken rice soup, quick dinner

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