High Protein Lemon Turmeric Chicken (Printable)

Vibrant chicken soup with zesty lemon, golden turmeric, and tender kale for a healthy, comforting meal.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 1.3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
04 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
05 - 3.5 oz baby kale
06 - 3 garlic cloves, minced

→ Broth & Liquids

07 - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1½ tsp ground turmeric
10 - ½ tsp ground black pepper
11 - 1 tsp sea salt
12 - 1 tsp dried thyme
13 - ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

→ Oils

14 - 1 tbsp olive oil

→ Garnish

15 - Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
16 - Lemon wedges

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in garlic, turmeric, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add chicken breasts or thighs and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
04 - Remove the chicken from the pot and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
05 - Stir in baby kale and simmer for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
06 - Add lemon juice and zest. Season with salt to taste.
07 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with parsley or dill and lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The turmeric creates the most gorgeous golden broth that makes every bowl feel like sunshine
  • One serving packs 40 grams of protein but tastes like a cozy hug from someone who loves you
  • The lemon zest at the end wakes up all the flavors and somehow makes the whole house smell cleaner
02 -
  • Turmeric stains everything, including your favorite wooden spoons and countertops, so work carefully and clean up any spills immediately
  • The soup tastes even better the next day, so consider doubling the recipe and keeping leftovers for easy lunches
  • Adding the lemon at the very end preserves its bright flavor since heat can make citrus taste muted over time
03 -
  • Use a microplane for the lemon zest to get only the bright yellow part and none of the bitter white pith underneath
  • If using chicken breasts, check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent them from becoming dry in the broth
Return