Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of chicken soup—perfect for nourishing a friend or loved one in need. This hearty recipe is not only packed with flavor but can easily be adapted for dairy-free and gluten-free diets, making it a thoughtful choice for any dietary needs. Using chickpea orzo not only makes it gluten-free but also boosts the protein, ensuring this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Chicken Soup:

• 1/2 Tablespoon butter (use plant-based butter for dairy-free)
• 4 ribs celery, diced
• 4–5 large carrots, diced or sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
• 12 cups chicken stock (try this homemade recipe)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup chickpea orzo (or swap with regular orzo, white rice, or noodles)
• 4 cups broccoli, chopped
• 4 cups cauliflower, chopped
• 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded (any chicken works, and don’t forget to save the bones to make the stock if using rotisserie chicken)
• 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor (or chicken bouillon granules, dairy- and gluten-free if needed- but Better than Bouillon give great flavor)

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Sauté Vegetables:
   Heat butter in a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Add diced celery and carrots, sautéing for about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
   
2. Prepare the Broth:
   Pour in chicken stock and season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs (rosemary, sage, basil, oregano, parsley). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a spoonful of Better Than Bouillon or chicken bouillon granules for added depth of flavor.
   
3. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring the broth to a boil. Add chickpea orzo (or rice) and cook for the specified time on the package, minus 5 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables:
   During the final 5 minutes of pasta cooking, stir in broccoli and cauliflower. Cook until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant.
   
5. Add the Chicken:
   Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and allow the soup to heat through. Taste the broth again and adjust seasonings, if needed.
   
6. Serve & Store:
   Serve immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4–5 days, depending on the freshness of the chicken.
   

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Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and double-check your bouillon or granules.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional noodles for chickpea orzo or rice to add protein and keep it gluten-free.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Sharing

This chicken soup recipe is a true hug in a bowl, ticking all the boxes for comfort, health, and versatility. Whether you’re taking it to a friend under the weather or serving it to your family on a chilly evening, it’s sure to hit the spot.

This soup is filling, flavorful, and packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables, high-protein chickpea orzo, and collagen-rich chicken stock. It’s the ultimate meal for boosting spirits and nourishing the body.

Why This Soup is a Great Choice for Healing

This comforting chicken soup is the perfect choice for someone recovering from surgery, chemotherapy, or illness. It’s warm, nourishing, and easy to digest, providing the soothing care they need.

1. Ideal for Post-Surgery Recovery

I made this soup for my niece and a friend after their gallbladder removal, and it was a gentle yet nourishing meal. After surgery, especially gallbladder removal, the body can struggle to digest fat since the gallbladder, which stores bile for fat digestion, is no longer present. According to the Mayo Clinic, a low-fat diet is recommended to ease digestion.

• Low Fat – Uses minimal butter, with a plant-based option available.
• Dairy-Free Option – Avoids dairy fats that can be harder to digest.
• Gentle on the Stomach – Soft vegetables and lean chicken are easy to digest.
• Protein-Rich – Chickpea orzo and shredded chicken support healing.

2. Soothing for Chemotherapy Recovery

Chemotherapy can cause nausea, appetite loss, and food sensitivities. According to the American Cancer Society, easily digestible, hydrating, and nutrient-dense foods are best during treatment.

• Easy to Eat – Soft veggies (carrots, celery, broccoli, cauliflower) and tender chicken are gentle on the stomach.
• Hydrating – The broth replenishes fluids and electrolytes.
• Immune-Boosting – Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Mild Flavor – Herbs add a comforting taste without overpowering.

3. Comforting for Cold & Flu Relief

The bone broth base in this soup is rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals, making it a time-tested remedy for colds and flu. Studies suggest that chicken soup may help reduce inflammation and congestion while keeping you hydrated.

• Supports Immunity – Bone broth provides essential nutrients.
• Hydrates & Soothes – Helps ease a sore throat and congestion.
• Boosts Recovery – Protein and vitamins help restore strength.

This soup isn’t just food—it’s comfort and healing in a bowl, perfect for helping someone feel better, heal faster, and regain their strength. 💛

Disclaimer: This information is for general wellness and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes, especially for those recovering from surgery, undergoing chemotherapy, or managing a medical condition. Individual nutritional needs and tolerances vary, so it’s important to follow a doctor’s guidance for the best recovery support.