Zucchini Noodle Chicken Soup

Name: Zucchini Noodle Chicken Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

I love making zucchini noodle chicken soup when I need a comforting and healthy meal. The combination of tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and flavorful broth creates a dish that warms both body and soul. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and in just 30 minutes, I can have a steaming bowl of goodness ready for my family. I often add extra herbs and spices to elevate the flavor, making it a delightful and nutritious choice for lunch or dinner that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:34:28.683Z

When I first experimented with transforming traditional chicken soup into a lighter version, the addition of zucchini noodles was a game changer! I found that they add a wonderful texture and absorb the broth beautifully. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in more veggies, especially for picky eaters.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to sauté the garlic and onion before adding the broth. This simple step enhances the depth of flavor in the soup, making every spoonful more fulfilling. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light yet satisfying meal that's full of flavor
Zucchini noodles provide a fun twist on a classic dish
High in protein and low in carbs, perfect for healthy eating

      

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of chicken breasts in this recipe is critical. Boneless, skinless breasts not only cook quickly but also absorb the flavors of the broth effectively. For a richer taste, you may opt for bone-in chicken breasts, but remember to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through before shredding.

Zucchini noodles stand out in this dish because they offer a unique texture and lighten the overall meal. When spiralizing, it’s crucial to choose medium zucchinis for a balance of size and flavor. Larger zucchinis can become watery and less flavorful; thus, smaller varieties yield a more concentrated taste and pleasant bite in your soup.

Tips for Shredding Chicken

Shredding the chicken can be made easier with a few tricks. After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Use two forks and pull the chicken apart; this method ensures even shreds and retains moisture. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for quick shredding.

If you’re short on time, a rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute. Simply remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat right into the soup. This not only saves time but also brings a smoky flavor to the dish that complements the fresh vegetables wonderfully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a nourishing bowl of zucchini noodle chicken soup.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Have everything ready? Now let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a wholesome and delicious zucchini noodle chicken soup.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot, let it rest for a few minutes, and then shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.

Add the Broth and Herbs

Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.

Incorporate Zucchini Noodles

Add the spiralized zucchini to the pot and continue to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the zucchini noodles are tender.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the shredded chicken and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade zucchini noodle chicken soup, perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving. It will brighten up the soup and enhance the freshness of the zucchini.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the broth and vegetables a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the broth, add the zucchini noodles and chicken, and cook until warmed through. This helps the zucchinis maintain their texture without becoming too mushy.

If you want to freeze the soup, do so before adding the zucchini noodles. The noodles can be added once reheated; otherwise, they may become watery upon thawing. Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Flavor Variations

To add layers of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice just before serving. The acidity brightens the broth and elevates the overall taste of the soup. Additionally, experimenting with fresh herbs like dill or basil can introduce new fragrant elements that complement the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

For spice lovers, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauté step to impart a subtle heat. Alternatively, a dash of soy sauce or coconut aminos can add a delightful umami flavor that enhances the chicken broth’s natural richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, if you prefer traditional pasta, feel free to substitute with your favorite noodles, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! As long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and avoid regular pasta, this soup is naturally gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrients and flavor.