This flavorful chicken and sweet potato soup is packed with nutrients and a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The tender chicken and soft sweet potatoes make for a hearty and filling meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups (1.4 L) chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (120 g) spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime (optional for added brightness)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion is translucent.
Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices
- Add the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Simmer the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Add Chicken and Greens
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot. If using, add spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
Finish the Soup
- Stir in lime juice (if using) and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
- Ladle the chicken and sweet potato soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
This chicken and sweet potato soup is not only delicious but also a wholesome, nutrient-packed dish perfect for any time of year!