Save A hearty, nourishing soup featuring tender chicken, vibrant kale, and a delightful topping of spiced, crispy chickpeas—perfect for a comforting, healthy meal.
This soup quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavors and health benefits.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Broth: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 350 g), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1.5 liters (6 cups) low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 150 g (5 oz) kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Juice of ½ lemon
- Crispy Chickpeas: 1 can (400 g/14 oz) chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, paprika, and salt. Spread on the prepared tray and roast for 25 30 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crunchy. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- While chickpeas roast, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery sauté for 5 6 minutes until softened.
- Step 4:
- Add garlic, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5:
- Add chicken pieces cook for 3 4 minutes until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
- Step 6:
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Add kale and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and chicken is cooked through.
- Step 8:
- Stir in lemon juice. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 9:
- Ladle soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous handful of crispy chickpeas.
Save This recipe often brings my family together for a nourishing and cozy meal, especially on chilly evenings.
Required Tools
Large soup pot, Wooden spoon, Baking tray, Parchment paper, Chefs knife, Chopping board
Allergen Information
Contains: None of the major allergens (contains legumes). Always check broth and spice labels for hidden gluten or allergens if required.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330. Total Fat: 10 g. Carbohydrates: 24 g. Protein: 33 g.
Save This soup is the perfect balance of healthy ingredients and satisfying flavors to brighten any day.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the chickpeas crispy?
Drain and dry the chickpeas thoroughly, toss with olive oil and spices, then roast at 200°C for 25-30 minutes, shaking halfway for even crispiness.
- → Can I substitute kale with another green?
Yes, spinach or Swiss chard make great alternatives that wilt nicely and complement the soup's flavors.
- → What enhances the flavor of the broth?
Sautéing the aromatics like onion, garlic, and herbs before adding broth helps deepen the flavor profile significantly.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely, using gluten-free broth and ensuring seasonings are free of gluten keeps the dish safe for gluten-free requirements.
- → How can I add more heat to the dish?
A pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper added during the sautéing stage introduces a gentle kick without overpowering.