When it comes to using up leftover chicken, one of the most comforting and satisfying options is a warm, hearty bowl of chicken soup. Whether you’re looking for a classic homestyle recipe or something with a little more international flair, there’s a perfect leftover chicken soup out there for you.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and comforting recipes that are sure to use up any leftover chicken you may have on hand. From creamy and rich to spicy and flavorful, these soups are the perfect way to repurpose your leftover chicken into a tasty and satisfying meal.
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the heartiness of wild rice with the richness of cream and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and onions)
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, vegetables, and wild rice in butter until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the wild rice is fully cooked.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup Recipe
Warm up with this creamy and aromatic soup, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in coconut milk, broth, and mixed vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, made with simple ingredients and minimal fuss. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a soothing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a little water until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
4. Combine the cooked noodles with the soup and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a fusion of flavors, with tender chicken, crunchy tortillas, and a rich broth that will warm your soul. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cut the tortillas into thin strips.
4. Add the tortilla strips to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this tangy and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of orzo pasta with the zest of lemon and garlic. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Stir in the orzo pasta, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a hint of curry spices. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped carrots, celery, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Dumpling Soup
Warm up with this classic comfort food recipe that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich vegetable broth. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and 1/4 cup water until smooth. Stir into the soup and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Soup
This classic soup is a flavorful and comforting blend of juicy chicken, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using pasta, cook according to package instructions and add to the soup.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and corn chowder, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, and paprika.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup
This beloved Greek soup is a comforting blend of chicken, vegetables, and egg-based avgolemono sauce. With its bright citrus flavor and velvety texture, it’s the perfect remedy for any cold or flu.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 egg yolks
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add rice and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in lemon juice and egg yolks until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy and flavorful Chicken Pot Pie Soup recipe. This twist on the classic pot pie filling is served in a bowl instead of a pastry crust, making it an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream and thyme. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian Ginger Chicken Soup
A soothing and flavorful soup that combines the comfort of chicken with the warmth of ginger and Asian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot; set aside.
4. Add the ginger, garlic, and onion to the pot; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth, water, soy sauce, and sesame oil; bring to a boil.
6. Return the chicken to the pot; reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Soup
This rich and flavorful soup combines the comforting flavors of chicken, cheese, and enchiladas with a creamy twist. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red enchilada sauce
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as needed.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes.
4. Stir in half-and-half or heavy cream and let cool slightly.
5. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Barley Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of chicken and mushroom barley soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year. This recipe combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty barley in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, mushrooms, and thyme. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth and barley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Soup
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Soup Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic soup that combines the warmth of Moroccan spices with the comfort of chicken, this recipe is perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender chicken, plump tortellini, and wilted spinach. Enjoy the warm and cozy feeling it brings to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and spinach. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Add tortellini and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes.
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky heat from chipotles and comforting chicken broth, packed with vegetables and tender chicken. A bowl of this goodness will warm your belly and soothe your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little oil until tender.
2. Add chicken, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned.
3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Vegetable Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein, fiber, and flavor. With the addition of quinoa, it’s a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until browned.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the quinoa, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion Chicken Soup
A classic comfort soup that combines the flavors of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and rich beef broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in beef broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Soup
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, black beans, and vegetables with a hint of cumin and chili powder to create a comforting and satisfying soup perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces if needed.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the black beans, chicken broth, and any desired vegetables (if using).
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover chicken and try out these deliciously comforting soup recipes! With 20 mouth-watering options to choose from, you’ll never be stuck for ideas. From creamy and spicy to classic and hearty, there’s something for everyone. Try making Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup, or Classic Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup. Or go global with recipes like Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup, Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup, or Moroccan Spiced Chicken Soup. Whatever your taste buds crave, these leftover chicken soup recipes are sure to hit the spot!
