Ingredients:

  • 1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 large Yellow Onion, diced
  • 3 medium stalks Celery, diced
  • 2 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 inches Fresh Ginger, peeled and grated
  • 1 tsp Fresh Turmeric, grated (optional, or ½ tsp dried)
  • 5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 8 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Stock
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt (plus more to taste)
  • ½ tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 cup Sliced Mushrooms (cremini or shiitake)
  • 1 medium Courgette (Zucchini), quartered and sliced
  • 4 cups Packed Curly Kale or Spinach, rough chopped
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • Juice of 1 large Lemon

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in the stock pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  2. Activate Spices: Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and grated turmeric (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic.
  3. Add Liquid and Protein: Place the whole chicken breasts into the pot. Pour in the chicken stock. Add the initial salt and pepper.
  4. Bring to Simmer: Bring the mixture to a low simmer. Reduce the heat and cook gently for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a cleaner broth.
  5. Remove and Shred: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts using tongs or a slotted spoon. Allow to cool slightly, then shred the chicken finely using two forks. Set aside.
  6. Cook Remaining Vegetables: Increase the heat slightly. Add the sliced mushrooms and courgette to the simmering broth. Cook for 5 minutes. We want these tender-crisp, not mushy.
  7. Add Greens and Chicken: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach. Cook just until the greens wilt (about 2–3 minutes). Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to ensure everything is heated through.
  8. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning now—add more salt or pepper as desired.
  9. Finish with Brightness: Turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.