Easy Paleo Soup Recipe

If you’re on a journey to eat clean, feel great, and embrace a lifestyle that prioritizes whole foods, the Paleo diet has likely crossed your radar. Known for its emphasis on fresh, unprocessed ingredients, this eating plan harkens back to the days of early human history, when our ancestors thrived on foods that could be hunted or gathered. While it might sound strict at first, it’s more about going back to basics-choosing what our bodies were naturally designed to digest. So, if you’re looking for a warm, satisfying meal that checks all the Paleo boxes, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Paleo Soup Recipe.

This simple, yet hearty soup offers a nourishing balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, and it’s a great addition to your meal prep rotation. Whether you’re an experienced Paleo pro or just starting out, this recipe is so easy to make, you’ll want to have it on your table regularly.

When it comes to soups, there are few things more comforting than a rich, flavorful bowl filled with the kind of ingredients that support your health goals. This recipe is not only Paleo-friendly, but it’s also incredibly flexible, allowing you to add in your favorite vegetables, protein sources, or spices.

You’re going to love how quickly this comes together. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something healthy yet easy.

Ingredients Needed

Before we jump into the cooking instructions, let’s make sure you have everything you need:

1 lb chicken breast (or thighs) – The star protein of the dish, offering lean protein with just the right amount of flavor.
4 cups chicken broth (preferably organic and low-sodium) – The liquid base that will bring all the ingredients together, creating a savory and rich flavor profile.
2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil) – To sauté the veggies and get that crispy edge on the chicken. Adds a lovely texture and healthy fats to the dish.
1 medium onion (diced) – For a flavorful foundation, onions add depth and sweetness as they caramelize in the oil.
2 cloves garlic (minced) – A must for any soup to enhance the savory taste and aroma.
2 medium carrots (sliced) – Sweet and slightly earthy, carrots bring a nice balance to the savory elements of the soup.
2 stalks celery (diced) – The classic soup ingredient that gives a nice crunch and freshness.
1 zucchini (sliced) – Zucchini is light, slightly mild, and soaks up all the delicious broth and flavors.
1 cup spinach or kale (chopped) – Leafy greens are always a great addition for added nutrients, vitamins, and fiber.
1 tsp dried thyme – A perfect herb that pairs beautifully with chicken and adds a little earthiness.
1 tsp dried rosemary – For a fragrant, piney taste that’s grounding and comforting.
Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance the natural flavors of the soup.

Cooking Instructions

Making this Paleo soup couldn’t be easier, even if you’ve never cooked a thing before. Follow these steps for a foolproof, delicious meal:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside. Dice the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and zucchini, and set them in separate bowls for easy access while cooking. Wash and chop the spinach or kale and set it aside too.
Heat Your Pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté Your Veggies: In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until they start to soften and become fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). Add the carrots, celery, and zucchini, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften and brown slightly (about 5 minutes).
Add the Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth, and add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Simmer and Combine: Return the chicken to the pot, stir everything together, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Add Greens: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in your spinach or kale. Let it wilt into the soup.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup, and adjust the seasoning as necessary with more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s dive deeper into why this combination of ingredients makes for an optimal Paleo meal:

Chicken: The lean protein in chicken is not only great for muscle repair and growth but also keeps you full longer. It’s a great source of essential amino acids and low in fat.
Broth: Bone broth (especially if you use it) is packed with collagen, which is excellent for joint health, skin elasticity, and digestion. Chicken broth, in general, is soothing for the gut and provides minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a staple in the Paleo diet because it’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health and reduce inflammation. It also has antioxidants, which protect your body from free radicals.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and zucchini are classic in many soups, not just for their flavor but because they provide a ton of nutrients-fiber, vitamins A and K, and potassium. They also add texture and color, making the soup visually appealing as well.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary aren’t just for flavor; they come with numerous health benefits too. Rosemary can improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and even boost memory, while thyme is a natural antibacterial and antifungal.

Expert Tips

Use Bone-In Chicken: If you want an extra depth of flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. The bones will release more collagen into the broth, giving it a richer, fuller taste.
Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamy soup, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Just be careful not to over-blend, as you want to keep some texture from the veggies.
Cook Low and Slow: While this recipe can be made in 30-40 minutes, letting it simmer on low heat for an hour or so allows the flavors to deepen, and the chicken will become even more tender.
Make It a Meal: Add some diced sweet potatoes for extra carbs or top with some sliced avocado for a creamy, rich texture.

Recipe Variations

Swap the Protein: If you’re not into chicken, this soup is very versatile. Swap in ground turkey, beef, or even pork for a new twist. Just be sure to cook the meat through before adding it to the broth.
Add More Greens: Swap spinach for kale or even Swiss chard. If you’re looking for an even more nutrient-dense version, toss in some collard greens or bok choy.
Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy, bold flavor that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Mushrooms: Add in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor. They also add a nice meaty texture, perfect for those who want to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet.

Final Words

This Paleo soup recipe is the ultimate combination of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re trying to stick to a Paleo plan or just looking for something comforting and wholesome, this dish fits the bill. Packed with protein, fiber, and tons of vitamins, it will fill you up without weighing you down.

Not only is it easy to make and super customizable, but it also stores well for meal prep. The flavors get better as they sit, so it’s a perfect make-ahead dish for the week.

Easy Paleo Soup Recipe