It always starts the same: a slight cough, a stuffy nose, a tired little sigh from across the room. And that’s my cue. I grab my favorite pot, reach for the ginger, and start making ginger chicken soup—my go-to, my hero, my edible hug in a bowl.
This recipe was born during a particularly rough winter when everyone in our house caught a cold back-to-back. I started experimenting with immune-friendly ingredients—ginger, garlic, bone broth, lemon—and created a version of chicken soup that was not only deeply flavorful but also genuinely healing.
Now it’s tradition. Whenever anyone’s under the weather (or even just tired or cold), this is the Immune-Boosting Ginger Chicken Soup that shows up. It’s light yet nourishing, spicy but soothing, and always served with love and extra lemon.
Why You’ll Love This Immune-Boosting Ginger Chicken Soup 💛
🌿 Immune-Boosting Ingredients
Ginger, garlic, turmeric, and lemon create a powerhouse of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
🍗 Light Yet Nourishing
Made with shredded chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth—it’s healing without being heavy.
🌬️ Naturally Soothing for Colds & Flus
Warm broth helps relieve congestion, and the ginger adds a gentle heat that soothes your throat and chest.
🥕 Perfect for Any Time of Year
Whether you’re sick or just want something cozy and healthy, this soup hits the spot.
The Secret’s in the Healing Ingredients 🌿
The base is a homemade or high-quality chicken broth—rich in collagen, minerals, and comfort. From there, it’s all about layering:
- Fresh ginger gives the soup its signature zing and anti-inflammatory magic.
- Garlic brings immune support and deep flavor.
- Carrots and celery add color and texture.
- Shredded chicken provides protein and heartiness.
- Lemon juice adds brightness and vitamin C.
Optional—but magical—add-ins: a dash of turmeric, a pinch of chili flakes, and a spoonful of coconut milk for creaminess.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need 🛠️
No fancy gear needed—just your soup staples:
- A large soup pot or Dutch oven
- A cutting board + sharp knife
- A ladle and stirring spoon
- A strainer (if making homemade broth)
- Bowls, love, and maybe some cozy slippers
Storage & Reheating Tips 🧊
- Fridge: Keeps for up to 4–5 days in a sealed container.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months—perfect for flu season emergencies.
- Reheat: Simmer gently on the stovetop or microwave until warm. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
Tip: Add fresh herbs or lemon juice after reheating to bring it back to life.
Ways to Customize or Boost It 🌈
🍚 Add Grains: Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or orzo for a heartier bowl.
🌶️ Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne, chili oil, or sliced jalapeño.
🥬 Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, or bok choy wilt beautifully into the broth.
🥣 Go Creamy: A spoonful of coconut milk or cream makes it rich and velvety.
This soup is flexible—just like your immune system should be!
Perfect Pairings for Healing Vibes 🍞
Here’s what I serve alongside when someone’s curled up with a blanket:
- Toasted sourdough or garlic naan
- Saltine crackers or grain-free crisps
- A soothing ginger-lemon tea
- A Netflix queue and a warm blanket
Other Recipes That Nourish 🔗
- Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Stew
- Super Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Herbed Olive Oil Dip for Bread
FAQ – Immune-Boosting Ginger Chicken Soup ❓
- What makes this ginger chicken soup immune-boosting?
Ingredients like ginger, garlic, turmeric, and lemon support your immune system naturally. - Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! It’s naturally dairy-free unless you add cream or milk. - Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes—just make sure your broth and any add-ins (like noodles) are gluten-free. - Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken works perfectly. - What vegetables work best in ginger chicken soup?
Carrots, celery, onion, and leafy greens like spinach or kale are ideal. - Can I add noodles or rice to this soup?
Yes! Add cooked rice or noodles just before serving to keep them from getting soggy. - How long does ginger chicken soup last in the fridge?
About 4–5 days in a sealed container. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes—freeze in single portions and thaw when needed. - Is ginger chicken soup good for colds?
Yes, the warm broth, ginger, and garlic can help soothe symptoms and support healing. - Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes—use veggie broth and replace chicken with tofu or lentils.
Written by Magali, Cooking With Magali.
Immune-Boosting Ginger Chicken Soup – Only 260 calories!
Description
This Immune-Boosting Ginger Chicken Soup is a warm hug in a bowl—and your secret weapon during cold and flu season. Made with fresh ginger, garlic, lemon, and herbs, this soup is loaded with anti-inflammatory ingredients that support your immune system while tasting absolutely delicious. It's light but hearty, comforting yet refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're feeling under the weather or just want a nutritious meal, this is the soup to turn to.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté for 3 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
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Stir in carrots and celery. Place the chicken breasts on top, then pour in the chicken broth. Add turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
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Remove chicken breasts, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
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Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley or cilantro. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
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For extra comfort, stir in cooked rice or noodles before serving.
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Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm. Perfect with a slice of crusty bread or on its own!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 260kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Total Carbohydrate 14g5%
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Swap chicken breast for rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a spicy boost.
- Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and chickpeas.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
