Chicken soup is more than just comfort in a bowl—it’s a practical, nourishing, and versatile dish that fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle. Whether you’re prepping for a hectic workweek, stocking your freezer for easy dinners, or simply craving a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, chicken soup is the ultimate go-to. From hearty classics to globally inspired flavors, the possibilities are endless—and incredibly satisfying.
This collection of 11 chicken soup recipes is carefully crafted for those who want delicious meals ready at their fingertips. Each recipe is easy to make in big batches, stores beautifully, and reheats like a dream, making it ideal for meal prep and freezing. You’ll find everything from creamy, comforting options to light and brothy soups packed with vegetables, herbs, and spices. Whether you’re in the mood for a homestyle chicken noodle soup, a bold and spicy Thai-inspired bowl, or a rich and hearty chicken and rice variation, there’s something here to match your craving and your schedule.
Not only do these soups deliver incredible flavor, but they also save time and reduce food waste. By preparing ahead, you ensure you always have a wholesome, home-cooked meal ready to go—no matter how busy life gets. Plus, many of these recipes are customizable, so you can easily adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs or what you have on hand.
So grab your stockpot or slow cooker and start prepping—these chicken soup recipes are about to become staples in your kitchen.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Soup
This Lemon Garlic Chicken Soup is a refreshing twist on the classic comfort food. Bursting with bright citrus and aromatic garlic flavors, it’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day. Plus, it’s simple to make and comes together in no time.
The combination of lemon and garlic gives this soup a unique zing that’s both invigorating and soothing. It’s great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious servings throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth, shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Hearty Chicken and Barley Soup
This Hearty Chicken and Barley Soup is the perfect comfort food to warm you up on chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious barley, and vibrant veggies, it offers a rich and satisfying taste that both kids and adults will love. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for meal prep and freezing!
The blend of flavors creates a savory broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. With wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only filling but also nutritious. Ideal for busy weeknights, you can make a big batch and store the leftovers for later. Just heat and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup barley
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and diced chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Stir in barley, chicken broth, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the barley is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the freezer for easy future meals!
Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Soup
This Chicken and Vegetable Quinoa Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It combines tender pieces of chicken with vibrant vegetables and nutritious quinoa, making it perfect for a cozy meal. The broth is rich and comforting, bringing warmth to chilly days while keeping it light and healthy.
Not only is this recipe simple to whip up, but it’s also great for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch and freeze some for later, ensuring you always have a wholesome meal on hand. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced chicken. Cook until chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in quinoa, chicken broth, zucchini, red bell pepper, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Soup
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Mushroom Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s super easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, hearty mushrooms, and savory broth creates a rich flavor that’s perfect for chilly days. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work while you go about your day!
With its creamy texture and satisfying taste, this soup is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. Perfect for meal prep, you can whip up a batch on the weekend and freeze individual servings for later. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of goodness any time you need a little comfort!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the diced chicken, sliced mushrooms, chopped onion, and diced carrots.
- Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix everything well.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the top, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Let cool before transferring to freezer-friendly containers for meal prep!
Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
Thai Coconut Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings the warmth of Thai cuisine right to your kitchen. This soup features tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk base, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. The result is a creamy, slightly tangy, and fragrant dish that is both comforting and refreshing.
Making this soup is simple and perfect for meal prep, as it freezes well without losing its delicious taste. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that serves as a hearty lunch or dinner, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2-3 kaffir lime leaves (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, coconut milk, and red curry paste. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the mushrooms, bell pepper, fish sauce, and lime juice. If using, add the kaffir lime leaves for extra flavor.
- Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup
If you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, Spicy Chicken Tortilla Soup is a fantastic choice. This recipe is packed with flavor and has just the right amount of heat, making it both satisfying and exciting. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, so you can whip it up any day of the week.
This soup features tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a rich broth with spices that bring it all together. Topped with crispy tortilla strips and fresh avocado, it’s a delightful meal that’s perfect for meal prep or freezing for later. You’re going to love how easy it is to make!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortilla strips, for serving
- Avocado slices, for topping
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with tortilla strips, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm and comforting dish that can brighten any day. With tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles simmered in a savory broth, it’s a delightful meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or use leftover chicken to save time. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy meal, this classic soup hits the spot every time. It also freezes well, so you can always have a portion ready to go!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the shredded chicken, egg noodles, and thyme. Reduce heat and simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting dish that balances rich flavors with a hearty texture. It’s perfect for chilly days when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and creamy broth creates a delightful taste that makes each spoonful a treat.
What’s great about this soup is how simple it is to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy or store for later. It’s an excellent option for meal prep and freezing, so you can enjoy it whenever you need a quick and tasty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the chicken breasts, wild rice, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Heat through and serve, garnished with chopped parsley.
Buffalo Chicken Soup
This Buffalo Chicken Soup brings the classic flavors of buffalo wings into a warm, comforting bowl. It’s creamy, a little spicy, and loaded with chicken and veggies, making it a perfect meal prep option. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can enjoy this hearty soup any day of the week.
The combination of tangy buffalo sauce with creamy elements creates a delightful balance that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Serve it with some crunchy celery and blue cheese on the side for that authentic buffalo experience. Just make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for those busy nights!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Blue cheese crumbles, for topping
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, carrots, and celery. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and buffalo wing sauce. Stir until combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with blue cheese crumbles and fresh parsley. Enjoy with crunchy celery sticks on the side!
Chicken Pho with Fresh Herbs
Chicken Pho is a delightful and aromatic noodle soup that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and an array of fresh herbs, it’s a bowl full of flavor that feels both exotic and familiar. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.
The combination of fragrant spices like star anise and cinnamon, along with lime juice and fresh cilantro, creates a refreshing taste that can brighten any day. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and freezing, allowing you to enjoy homemade soup anytime!
Ingredients
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 8 oz rice noodles
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Thai bird chilies, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, combine chicken broth, chicken breasts, onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the Chicken: Take the chicken out of the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Strain the Broth: Remove the aromatics (onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon) from the broth. Stir in fish sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Soup: In bowls, add a portion of the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, and ladle the hot broth over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro, basil, chopped green onions, and serve with lime wedges and chilies on the side.
Mediterranean Chicken Soup
This Mediterranean Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that transports you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. With a mix of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, it’s both hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a comforting bowl to warm you up, this soup is simple to make and perfect for meal prep.
The combination of vibrant ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and herbs creates a taste that’s both savory and zesty. It’s easy to whip up in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it freezes well, so you can enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean anytime you want!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and garlic; cook for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, paprika, and green bell pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the black olives and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Final Thoughts
Having a stash of hearty, delicious chicken soup in your freezer is one of the smartest ways to stay nourished and stress-free throughout the week. These 11 recipes combine comfort, convenience, and flavor in every spoonful, making meal prep something you’ll actually look forward to. Dive in and discover your new favorites!