Save A nourishing, hearty soup featuring tender chicken, vibrant kale, and crunchy spiced chickpeas — the perfect healthy comfort food twist.
This soup quickly became a favorite in my household for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- For the Soup: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium onion diced, 2 garlic cloves minced, 2 medium carrots sliced, 2 celery stalks sliced, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1 pound (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium chicken broth, 4 cups chopped kale ribs removed, 1 bay leaf, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, Juice of 1/2 lemon
- For the Crispy Chickpeas: 1 (15 oz 425 g) can chickpeas drained and rinsed, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chickpeas dry with a paper towel. Toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 30 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 6 minutes until softened.
- Step 3:
- Stir in thyme, oregano, and (if using) red pepper flakes cook for 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Add chicken breasts thigh, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
- Step 5:
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Step 6:
- Stir in chopped kale and simmer for 3 4 minutes until wilted. Add lemon juice.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaf.
- Step 8:
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy chickpeas just before serving.
Save Sharing this soup with family always brings us together on cozy evenings.
Required Tools
Large soup pot, Baking sheet, Parchment paper (optional), Chefs knife, Cutting board, Mixing bowls
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens. If using store-bought broth, check for potential allergens or gluten. Always verify ingredient labels for processed items.
Nutritional Information
Calories 350, Total Fat 12 g, Carbohydrates 27 g, Protein 32 g per serving
Save This chicken kale soup is a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors to enjoy any day.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you achieve crispy chickpeas?
Rinse and dry chickpeas thoroughly, then toss with olive oil and spices before roasting at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, shaking halfway for even crispiness.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide extra tenderness and flavor in the broth.
- → What’s the best way to prepare kale for this dish?
Remove the ribs and chop the kale before adding it to the simmering broth. Cook for 3-4 minutes until just wilted to retain texture and nutrients.
- → Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth for a satisfying plant-based option.
- → How can I add more heartiness to this dish?
Adding diced potatoes or cooked quinoa during cooking provides extra body and nourishment.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor blend?
Dried thyme, oregano, and optional crushed red pepper flakes contribute aromatic depth and a subtle heat.