Immune Boosting Chicken Soup

GF | DF | RSF | EF | NF

SERVES: 6 adults

AGE APPROPRIATE: 1 meal a day + (pureed)

There’s a reason chicken soup has been lovingly passed down through generations — it’s not just comforting, it’s incredibly nourishing too. Whether you’re battling a winter cold, supporting your child’s immune system, or just after a wholesome, warming meal the whole family will enjoy, this soup ticks every box.

Chicken provides quality protein for growing bodies, while the bone broth base is rich in minerals, gut-loving gelatin, and amino acids that help support digestion and immune function. We’ve layered in anti-inflammatory ingredients like garlic, ginger and turmeric to give it an extra therapeutic boost — plus loads of veggies for fibre and nutrients.

It’s simple, soul-warming food — the kind that fills little tummies and brings everyone to the table.

This is a staple in our house, and one of my favourite ways to gently build flavour and nourishment into my kids’ meals. Best of all? It’s freezer-friendly, easily adaptable, and made with just a handful of pantry and fridge staples.

Bone Broth:

You can use homemade bone broth (like our Chicken Bone Broth recipe – it’s a great way to use up a whole chook!) or choose a quality store-bought option. We’ve linked some of our favourites in this blogUndivided Food Co is a go-to in our kitchen because it’s low in sodium and beautifully gelatinous.

Age Suitable:

Suitable from 6 months+ serve deconstructed for baby-led weaning (soft chicken pieces, cooked veg, and broth separately). You can omit the pasta to make it wheat-free. You can puree for spoon feeding babies.

Storage

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months. If freezing, leave out pasta and add fresh when reheating for best texture.

Immune Boosting Chicken Soup

GF | DF | RSF | EF | NF
Course 1 meal a day, Family Meals, Main Course, Soup
Servings 6 Adults

Equipment

  • Large Soup Pot
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Wooden Spoon or Ladle
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 500 grams chicken thigh or use leftover cooked chicken – see notes
  • 4-6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 leek white only, sliced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 2 tsp fresh turmeric finely grated (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • 2 tsp fresh ginger finely grated or minced
  • 1 TBSP fresh thyme or 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 litre chicken Bone Broth
  • 300 ml water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

OPTIONAL:

  • 1 cob of corn kernels removed, or 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1-2 red chillies finely chopped
  • 200 grams pasta of choice (e.g., orzo, macaroni, GF option if needed)

Instructions
 

  • Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for a few minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add leek, carrot, and celery, and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Then add a splash of the broth to deglaze, scraping up the golden bits at the bottom.
  • Stir through garlic, turmeric, ginger and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the pasta, pour in the remaining broth and water, then return the chicken to the pot. If using fresh corn, add it here too.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is tender and pasta is cooked through. Stir in frozen corn or chopped chilli in the last 5 minutes if using.
  • Season to taste and serve warm.

Notes

Swaps & Tips

  • Leftover roast chicken? Skip browning and add in the last 5 minutes to warm through.
  • Grain-free: Swap pasta for cooked rice, quinoa, rice noodles, or leave out altogether.
  • Extra veggies? Add spinach, peas, or zucchini near the end.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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