20+ Easy Chicken Soup Recipes

For the winter months, nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken soup to make you feel cozy and comforted. I like to try different flavors and styles of chicken soup because each one brings something unique to the table.

From classic recipes to bold and spicy options, chicken soup is always a great way to stay warm and satisfied during chilly days.

I like experimenting with chicken soup recipes because they are versatile, easy to prepare, and full of nourishing ingredients. You can load them with vegetables, add creamy textures, or spice things up with exciting flavors like Thai Coconut or Buffalo Chicken Soup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, there’s always a chicken soup recipe that fits the occasion.

So, if you’re looking for new ways to enjoy this comforting dish, this list of 20 chicken soup recipes is perfect for you. It includes everything from light and healthy soups to hearty, creamy options that will keep you full and happy. Grab a bowl, pick your favorite recipe, and enjoy a delicious soup this winter!

1. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a savory, aromatic broth. It’s perfect for warming up on a cold day or when you need something soothing. This recipe is quick to prepare, wholesome, and loved by all ages.

Time: 45 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken and reduce heat to medium. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth back into the pot. Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
  4. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm with bread or crackers.

2. Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a rich, hearty dish loaded with tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and fresh vegetables. The luxurious cream base makes this soup incredibly comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings or a filling lunch. It’s easy to prepare and great for leftovers.

Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the chicken and simmer for 15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
  2. Cook the Wild Rice: In the same pot, add the wild rice and simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid if needed.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Make the Cream Base: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, whisking continuously until smooth.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Add the cream mixture to the pot with the rice. Stir in shredded chicken, remaining broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread.

3. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a light and refreshing dish that’s both hearty and comforting. The zesty lemon juice pairs beautifully with tender chicken, tiny orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables. It’s quick to make, flavorful, and perfect for any season.

Time: 35 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken: Stir in chicken broth, shredded chicken, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  4. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve warm. Pair with a slice of lemon for extra zest.

4. Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a bold and flavorful dish loaded with shredded chicken, beans, and a spiced tomato-based broth. Topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh garnishes, this soup is hearty, satisfying, and easy to customize. It’s perfect for a quick dinner with a hint of spice.

Time: 40 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Tortilla strips, avocado, and lime for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Build the Base: Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. Add Chicken and Beans: Reduce heat to medium and add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with tortilla strips, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.

5. Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup is a creamy, aromatic dish with bold flavors of coconut milk, lime, and lemongrass. This comforting soup is loaded with tender chicken, mushrooms, and a touch of spice. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something exotic and flavorful.

Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, crushed
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp chili paste (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, combine chicken broth, lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Cook the Chicken and Mushrooms: Add chicken slices and mushrooms to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add Coconut Milk: Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili paste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a side of jasmine rice if desired.

6. Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Chicken and Vegetable Soup is a wholesome and nourishing dish, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light, flavorful broth. This soup is perfect for a healthy meal or a light dinner. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite vegetables, and deliciously satisfying.

Time: 40 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth, shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Add Zucchini: Reduce heat and add zucchini. Simmer for 10 minutes or until all vegetables are tender.
  4. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread.

7. Chicken and Dumplings Soup

Chicken and Dumplings Soup is a comforting classic, combining tender chicken, a creamy broth, and fluffy homemade dumplings. This hearty soup is perfect for cold days when you need a warming and satisfying meal. It’s a family favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • ½ cup milk

Instructions

  1. Cook Vegetables: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  2. Make the Broth: Add chicken broth, shredded chicken, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Prepare Dumpling Batter: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and milk until just combined.
  4. Add Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, without stirring, until dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
  5. Finish with Cream: Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Serve warm.

8. Spicy Chicken Soup with Lime

Spicy Chicken Soup with Lime is a zesty, bold dish that combines shredded chicken, fresh lime juice, and a kick of chili. It’s light yet flavorful, perfect for when you’re craving something with a little heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado for a vibrant finish.

Time: 35 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 1 jalapeño, diced (optional)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeño for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken: Stir in chicken broth, shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Finish with Lime: Stir in lime juice and let simmer for 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with tortilla chips or avocado slices.

9. Chicken Corn Chowder

Chicken Corn Chowder is a creamy and hearty soup loaded with sweet corn, tender chicken, and smoky bacon. This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for a comforting meal. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for an irresistible dinner.

Time: 50 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Potatoes: In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add diced potatoes and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
  2. Sauté Bacon and Aromatics: In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. Use the rendered fat to sauté onion and garlic for 5 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the onion mixture, shredded chicken, corn, and half the crumbled bacon to the pot with the potatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add Cream: Stir in heavy cream and butter. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve: Garnish with remaining bacon and fresh chives before serving.

10. Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs

Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring tender chicken meatballs, fresh greens, and small pasta. This soup is comforting yet light, perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner. It’s easy to make and loved by everyone.

Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup small pasta (e.g., acini di pepe)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Make the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs.
  2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Base: In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in olive oil for 5 minutes.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in pasta and cook for 8 minutes until tender.
  5. Add Greens and Meatballs: Add spinach and meatballs to the soup. Simmer for 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the meatballs are cooked through.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve with grated Parmesan.

11. Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken Pot Pie Soup delivers all the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie in a rich, creamy soup. Loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and a buttery, savory broth, this hearty dish is perfect for cold days. Pair it with puff pastry or biscuits for the full pot pie experience.

Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  3. Thicken the Soup: Whisk flour with ¼ cup of water to create a slurry. Slowly stir it into the soup, cooking for 5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Add Chicken and Cream: Stir in shredded chicken, heavy cream, peas, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until heated through.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with puff pastry or biscuits.

12. White Bean Chicken Chili

Chicken and White Bean Chili is a hearty, protein-packed dish with tender chicken, creamy white beans, and bold spices. This lighter alternative to traditional chili is comforting and full of flavor. Serve it with tortilla chips or cornbread for a complete meal.

Time: 45 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups white beans (canned, rinsed, and drained)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add Spices: Stir in cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add chicken broth, white beans, corn, shredded chicken, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with tortilla chips.

13. Buffalo Chicken Soup

Buffalo Chicken Soup is a spicy and creamy soup inspired by the flavors of buffalo wings. Packed with tender chicken, tangy hot sauce, and a rich, cheesy broth, this soup is a bold and satisfying choice. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese crumbles for the ultimate buffalo experience.

Time: 40 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Blue cheese crumbles and celery for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken: Stir in chicken broth, shredded chicken, and hot sauce. Bring to a simmer.
  3. Melt Cheese: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until fully melted.
  4. Add Cream: Stir in heavy cream and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve: Garnish with blue cheese crumbles and celery sticks before serving.

14. Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a rich and comforting dish filled with tender chicken, fluffy gnocchi, and fresh spinach. This creamy soup is hearty yet indulgent, making it perfect for a satisfying meal. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food.

Time: 45 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  2. Add Broth and Chicken: Stir in chicken broth, shredded chicken, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Cook Gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float to the top.
  4. Finish with Cream and Spinach: Stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach. Simmer for 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
  5. Serve: Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

15. Chicken Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Chicken Pho is a fragrant Vietnamese soup with tender chicken, rice noodles, and a flavorful, aromatic broth. The broth is infused with spices like star anise and cinnamon, making this dish light yet deeply satisfying. Serve it with fresh herbs and lime wedges for an authentic experience.

Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, sliced
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, basil, and lime for garnish

Instructions

  1. Infuse the Broth: In a large pot, bring chicken broth, star anise, cinnamon, ginger, onion, and garlic to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add chicken breast to the pot and poach for 15 minutes until fully cooked. Remove chicken, shred it, and set aside.
  3. Prepare Noodles: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  4. Strain the Broth: Remove the spices and solids from the broth using a fine mesh strainer.
  5. Assemble: Divide rice noodles into bowls. Top with shredded chicken and pour hot broth over. Garnish with cilantro, basil, and lime wedges.

16. Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup is a bold and flavorful dish with shredded chicken, beans, and a rich, enchilada-sauce-infused broth. This soup is easy to make and perfect for busy days. The slow cooker does all the work, creating a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) | Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup red enchilada sauce
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Shredded cheese, avocado, and tortilla strips for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Place chicken breast, chicken broth, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
  3. Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, avocado, and tortilla strips.
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