Lemon and Turmeric Chicken Soup (Printable)

Vibrant golden soup with tender chicken, turmeric, and baby kale ready in 45 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 1.1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 3.5 oz baby kale

→ Broth & Liquids

07 - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
09 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 1.5 teaspoons ground turmeric
11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
14 - 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

→ Oils

15 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

# How-To:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in garlic, turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add chicken pieces to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
04 - Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
05 - Stir in the baby kale, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the kale is wilted.
06 - Taste and adjust salt or seasonings as desired. Serve hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The golden glow of the turmeric makes even the gloomiest afternoon feel like a sunny day at the table.
  • It is a protein powerhouse that leaves you feeling light and energized instead of heavy and sluggish.
02 -
  • Always zest the lemon before you juice it to avoid a messy struggle with a deflated fruit.
  • Black pepper is not just for heat because it actually helps your body absorb the benefits of the turmeric.
03 -
  • Do not let the garlic brown too much or it will turn bitter and ruin the delicate lemon balance.
  • Freeze your leftovers in individual portions for a quick and healthy grab and go lunch.
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