When the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade soup. My Chicken Collard Green Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken and nutrient-packed collard greens in a savory broth.
This recipe is a wonderful blend of Southern-inspired flavors, offering a delicious way to enjoy your greens. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or seeking a nourishing meal.
This soup is sure to satisfy both your hunger and your taste buds. Let’s dive into this wholesome and satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any day of the week.
How To Make Chicken Collard Green Soup
Recipe Time
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern, American
Serves: 4-6 people
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 bunch collard greens (washed, stems removed, and chopped)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, undrained)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp thyme (dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions
1. Sauté The Aromatics
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Brown The Chicken
Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the chicken thighs. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are browned. This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
3. Add The Seasonings And Broth
Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer The Soup
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Shred The Chicken
Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
6. Add Collard Greens And Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped collard greens and the can of diced tomatoes. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the collard greens are tender.
7. Adjust Seasonings
Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. If desired, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Facts Of Chicken Collard Green Soup
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Serving Suggestions Of Chicken Collard Green Soup
Serve With Crusty Bread
I love serving this Chicken Collard Green Soup with a slice of crusty bread on the side. The bread soaks up the broth beautifully and adds a delightful texture contrast.
Pair With A Light Salad
A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette makes a perfect companion to this hearty soup, balancing the meal with a touch of freshness.
Tips And Variations Of Chicken Collard Green Soup
Spice It Up
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the aromatics.
Swap The Greens
If collard greens aren’t available, you can substitute them with kale or Swiss chard. They’ll bring a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.
Add Beans For Extra Protein
To make the soup even heartier, consider adding a can of white beans or chickpeas. They pair well with the chicken and greens.
Health Benefits Of Chicken Collard Green Soup
Rich In Nutrients
This soup is a powerhouse of nutrients. The collard greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, while the chicken provides a good source of lean protein.
Supports Immune Health
With the combination of garlic, onions, and nutrient-dense greens, this soup is great for boosting your immune system, especially during colder months.
Low In Calories
Despite being hearty and satisfying, this Chicken Collard Green Soup is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for a light yet filling meal.
Special Note
I often find that soups like this taste even better the next day. The flavors meld together overnight, making the leftovers a treat to look forward to.
Conclusion
This Chicken Collard Green Soup is one of those recipes that you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. It’s simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, this soup has you covered.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy collard greens, a vegetable that’s often underappreciated but truly shines in this dish. Give it a try and let this soup warm you from the inside out!
Chicken Collard Green Soup
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Â
- 1 lb chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 1 bunch collard greens washed, stems removed, and chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp thyme dried
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar optional
InstructionsÂ
Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Brown The Chicken
- Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the chicken thighs. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are browned. This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
Add The Seasonings And Broth
- Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer The Soup
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred The Chicken
- Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Collard Greens And Tomatoes
- Stir in the chopped collard greens and the can of diced tomatoes. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the collard greens are tender.
Adjust Seasonings
- Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. If desired, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.