Grilled Chicken Soup: The Easiest Comfort Recipe

January 1, 2026

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Grilled chicken soup. The very name conjures up images of cozy nights and comforting flavors. But this isn’t your grandma's boiled chicken soup. We're taking it to a whole new level with the smoky char of the grill. Grilled chicken soup is a symphony of flavors, where simplicity meets sophistication.

Growing up, chicken soup was the remedy for everything. A sniffle, a scraped knee, a broken heart. But as my culinary horizons expanded, I wondered, “How can I elevate this classic?" The answer, my friends, was the grill. The grilled chicken adds a depth and complexity that’s truly irresistible.

Why You Will Love This grilled chicken soup Recipe

This grilled chicken soup is more than just food; it's a hug in a bowl. First, the grilled chicken infuses the broth with a subtle smoky flavor that is simply divine. It's quick enough for a weeknight meal and comforting enough for a weekend treat.

The best part? It’s easily customizable. Toss in your favorite veggies, add a touch of spice, or use different types of pasta. Feel free to adjust everything to your own liking. This recipe is a great way to use leftover grilled chicken!

grilled chicken soup process step

This soup is also incredibly healthy, packed with lean protein and vitamins. It's the perfect way to nourish your body and soul. And, of course, the taste is out of this world.

Ingredients Needed for This grilled chicken soup Recipe

  • For the Grilled Chicken:

    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • For the Soup:

    • 8 cups chicken broth
    • 1 cup chopped carrots
    • 1 cup chopped celery
    • 1 cup chopped onion
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
    • 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini, orzo, or stelline)
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make This grilled chicken soup Recipe

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.

  2. Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.

  3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into bite sized pieces. Set aside.

  4. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

  5. Add Herbs and Pasta: Stir in the thyme and rosemary. Then, add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

  6. Incorporate the Chicken: Add the shredded grilled chicken to the pot and heat through.

  7. Season and Serve: Stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot! You might even like this dish more than a standard Stir Fry Chicken Soup!

How to Serve This grilled chicken soup Recipe

Serve this grilled chicken soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple salad.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of roasted vegetables. Drizzle with a touch of olive or chili oil. This chicken soup is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

How to Store This grilled chicken soup Recipe

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

  • Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water.

Follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipe ideas and inspiration! Don’t forget to check out our other popular recipes like Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl and Grilled Chicken Rice Bowl 2.

Tips to Make This grilled chicken soup Recipe

  • For a Smoked Flavor: Use wood chips while grilling the chicken for an even more intense smoky flavor.
  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
  • Homemade Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade chicken broth.

Helpful Notes for This grilled chicken soup Recipe

  • Broth Options: If you do not have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute with vegetable broth or water.
  • Pasta Types: Choose small pasta shapes that cook quickly, such as ditalini, orzo, or stars. Egg noodles can also be used.
  • Chicken Quality: Use high quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.
  • Grilling Tips: Make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.

Variation of This grilled chicken soup Recipe

  • Lemon Herb Chicken soup: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with some fresh chopped herbs like dill or oregano.
  • Creamy Chicken Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
  • Mexican Chicken Soup: Add some black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and chili powder for a Mexican inspired twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does grilling the chicken do for chicken soup?

Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth of flavor to the soup, elevating it beyond traditional boiled chicken soup. The char from the grill infuses the entire dish with a unique and delicious taste.

What are some good vegetables to add to grilled chicken soup?

Common additions include carrots, celery, and onions, but you can also experiment with grilled corn, roasted peppers, or even a touch of zucchini. Consider grilling some of the vegetables alongside the chicken for added smoky flavor.

How can I make grilled chicken soup even healthier?

Use lean chicken breasts, load up on vegetables, and opt for a low-sodium broth. You can also add herbs and spices for extra flavor without adding salt or unhealthy fats.

Can I use bone-in chicken for grilled chicken soup?

Yes, using bone-in chicken adds even more flavor to the broth. You can grill bone-in chicken thighs or a whole chicken and then shred the meat for the soup. Simmer the bones in the broth for extra richness.

Conclusion

This grilled chicken soup recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. The smoky flavor from the grilled chicken adds a unique depth that will leave you craving more. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and prepare to enjoy a truly unforgettable bowl of grilled chicken soup.

Grilled Chicken Soup: The Easiest Comfort Recipe

Grilled Chicken Soup: The Easiest Comfort Recipe

Smoky grilled chicken transforms this classic soup into a comforting and flavorful meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Soup
Cuisine: American
Diet:

Nutrition:

Calories: 250
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 8g

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Preheat grill to medium heat. Combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub on chicken.
  2. 2. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through (165°F). Let cool and shred.
  3. 3. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. 4. Stir in thyme, rosemary, and pasta. Cook according to package directions.
  5. 5. Add shredded grilled chicken, heat through.
  6. 6. Stir in parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, use wood chips while grilling the chicken.
  • Add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach.
  • Can easily use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of grilling chicken.

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