Immune-Boosting Golden Chicken Soup with Turmeric

When cold and flu season hits, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of nourishing chicken soup. This immune-boosting Golden Chicken Soup is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric, garlic, and ginger, plus Mediterranean herbs such as thyme, oregano, and rosemary—all known for their antimicrobial and immune-supporting benefits.

Whether you need a soothing soup for a sore throat, when you are battling with a virus, a warming dish after a long day, or a wholesome recipe that supports gut health and immunity, this golden chicken soup will quickly become a household favourite.

Why is this Golden Chicken Soup Good for You?

• Turmeric & Ginger – Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich, great for digestion and recovery.

• Garlic & Onion – Natural immune-boosters that fight off seasonal bugs.

• Herbs (thyme, oregano, rosemary) – Contain natural antibacterial and antiviral compounds.

• Chicken broth – A mineral-rich base that hydrates and nourishes.

• Vegetables – Carrots, potatoes, and celery add fibre, vitamins, and natural sweetness.

• Kimchi (optional) – For extra gut support, add a spoonful before serving. In Estonia, our family loves Kadarbiku kimchi, proven by TFTAK to positively support gut health.

Golden Chicken Soup Recipe

Serves: 4–6

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)

• 1 tsp ground turmeric (or 1-inch fresh turmeric root, grated)

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried rosemary

• 2 medium carrots, diced

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced (optional). Omit if you don't like celery

• 2 bay leaves

• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade (you can find the recipe here) or high-quality store-bought, e.g., Food Studio chicken broth in Estonia)

• 2 chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs (boneless/skinless recommended)

  • Variation: Roast chicken wings with curry, coriander, sea salt, and olive oil. Remove the skin and bones, then add the meat to the soup.

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

• 1 tbsp kimchi (optional, for gut health)

• Fresh parsley, cilantro, or spring onion, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic, ginger, turmeric, thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add carrots, potatoes, and celery (if using). Stir well.

5. Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil.

6. Add chicken breasts/thighs whole. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

7. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.

8. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

9. Serve hot, garnished with kimchi, parsley, cilantro, or spring onion. I love to eat a good wholegrain rye bread with mashed avocado with the soup.

Healing Tips When You’re Sick

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup to help clear sinuses.

• Puree part of the soup for a smooth texture if your throat is sore.

• Stir in cooked lentils for extra protein and a more filling meal.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Chicken Soup is more than just comfort food—it’s a healing, immune-boosting remedy that can support your health during flu season, aid recovery, and keep your gut happy. The addition of thyme, oregano, and rosemary makes this recipe even more powerful against seasonal bugs, while still being light, cozy, and family-friendly.

So next time you feel under the weather—or just crave a cozy, nourishing meal—try making this turmeric chicken soup. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you.

You can find more soup recipes in my blog.

If you want to learn how you can support your immune health during the cold and flue season, read my articles on immune supporting foods and how to strengthen your immune system.

Don't hesitate to reach out to me at info@katrinpeo.com for nutritional counselling if you want to become a healthier version of yourself and change your nutrition for the better.