20 Comforting Homemade Chicken Soup Recipes for Cozy Nights

There’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade chicken soup to soothe your soul on a chilly evening. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a pick-me-up after a long day, a delicious and nourishing chicken soup is always the answer. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can whip up a batch of your favorite homemade chicken soup in no time.

From classic comfort foods like chicken noodle soup to international twists like Thai coconut chicken soup, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes to keep you cozy all year round. So grab your apron, get ready to simmer, and let’s dive into the ultimate collection of comforting homemade chicken soups!

Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Warm up with this comforting classic! This simple recipe yields a deliciously soothing chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1/2 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they’re al dente.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This comforting soup combines the earthy flavor of wild rice with the richness of chicken and a hint of cream, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

This creamy and spicy soup combines the flavors of Thailand with the warmth of coconut milk, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry paste, ginger, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the chicken broth, water, and browned chicken back to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Lemon Garlic Chicken Orzo Soup

Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful soup, featuring tender chicken, garlic, lemon, and creamy orzo pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the garlic in 2 tbsp of chicken broth until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken, remaining broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo into the soup pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

Warm up with this deliciously comforting slow cooker recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, spices, and tortillas for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy days or gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add tortilla strips to the slow cooker.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Homestyle Chicken and Dumpling Soup

This classic comfort food is a staple of home cooking, perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year. With tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter and milk to the dry ingredients; mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Drop the dumpling mixture by spoonfuls onto the simmering soup.
6. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Mexican Chicken Lime Soup

This refreshing soup combines the bright flavors of lime juice, garlic, and cumin with tender chicken and vegetables, perfect for a warm day or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeño peppers for added heat

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and bell pepper in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and lime juice. Stir well.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lime wedges and cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Chicken and Vegetable Barley Soup

Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup, packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and nutty barley. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, chicken, barley, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Greek Avgolemono Chicken Soup

This classic Greek soup is a comforting and flavorful blend of chicken, vegetables, and egg-based avgolemono sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine chicken, carrots, celery, and potatoes.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Beat egg in a separate bowl. Stir in lemon juice.
5. Gradually add a small amount of hot soup broth into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
6. Return the egg mixture to the pot and stir well.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Curried Chicken and Lentil Soup

This flavorful and nutritious soup combines the comfort of chicken and lentils with the warmth of Indian-inspired spices, perfect for a cozy night in. With its aromatic curry flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and spices until the onions are translucent.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Chicken Matzo Ball Soup

This classic Jewish soup is a staple of many family gatherings and holidays. With tender chicken, fluffy matzo balls, and a clear broth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons matzo meal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and celery in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the chicken, broth, eggs, matzo meal, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

Roasted Garlic and Herb Chicken Soup

This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and herbs with tender chicken, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken breast or thighs (bone-in)
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 1 sprig of fresh thyme
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the garlic by placing it on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold the foil to create a packet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened.
4. Add the roasted garlic, chicken broth, white wine (if using), rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Chicken and Corn Chowder

Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful chowder, packed with chicken, corn, and potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, frozen corn kernels, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Asian Ginger Chicken Pho Soup

Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful soup, inspired by Vietnam’s national dish. This recipe combines the comfort of chicken and ginger with the freshness of herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 cup rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro, basil, and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine chicken, ginger, chicken broth, water, fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, cinnamon, cumin, and coriander.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
4. Strain soup and discard ginger. Add cooked noodles and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Chicken and Spinach Tortellini Soup

This hearty soup combines the comfort of homemade tortellini with the rich flavors of chicken, spinach, and creamy broth. A perfect meal for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package (9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the tortellini, broth, and spinach. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tortellini is cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Smoky Chipotle Chicken Soup

Warm up with this spicy and savory soup that combines the richness of chicken with the depth of smoky chipotle peppers.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Chicken and Mushroom Wild Rice Soup

Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms, wild rice, and chicken. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in butter until cooked through.
2. Add wild rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Tomato Basil Chicken Soup

This light and satisfying soup combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil and the tenderness of chicken. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken in a little bit of oil until cooked through.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the tomatoes, basil, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup, depending on your desired consistency.
5. Stir in heavy cream if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Chicken and Quinoa Vegetable Soup

This nutritious soup is a perfect blend of protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich quinoa, and an array of colorful vegetables. A warm and comforting bowl that’s ideal for any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and onions)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tbsp 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 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the quinoa, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Herbed Chicken and Rice Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Herbed Chicken and Rice Soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the thyme and rosemary. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the rice and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Summary

Cozy up with a warm bowl of comfort on a chilly night! This article features 20 delicious homemade chicken soup recipes to satisfy your cravings. From classic noodle soups to international twists, these comforting dishes are sure to become new favorites. Try making the Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup or the Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup for a cozy night in.