Save A nourishing, hearty soup featuring tender chicken, vibrant kale, and crunchy spiced chickpeas — the perfect healthy comfort food twist.
This recipe combines fresh ingredients and a crispy topping for a delightful meal that I enjoy making regularly.
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/thighs, 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 This soup brings our family together especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must.
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 Enjoy this wholesome soup as a healthy meal that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I prepare the crispy chickpeas?
Drain and dry chickpeas thoroughly, toss with olive oil and spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder, then roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
- → Can I use other greens besides kale?
Yes, hearty greens such as spinach, collard greens, or Swiss chard can be substituted, though cooking times may vary slightly.
- → What cuts of chicken work best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs tend to provide more moisture and richness.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth to maintain richness without meat.
- → What herbs add the best flavor to this soup?
Dried thyme and oregano bring earthy, aromatic notes that complement the chicken and kale beautifully.