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Indian Chicken Soup
Lunch • India
How to Make Indian Chicken Soup (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Indian Chicken Soup, known locally as 'Murgh Shorba,' is a comforting, aromatic dish cherished across North India, especially during chilly winters and monsoon evenings. This light, flavorful soup is a staple in Punjabi households and is often served as a nourishing starter or a light lunch. Infused with warming spices like jeera (cumin), adrak (ginger), and lahsun (garlic), this soup brings together the rich culinary heritage of North India in every spoonful. Murgh Shorba is not just delicious but also evokes nostalgia, often reminding one of grandmothers simmering fresh chicken with whole spices on slow heat. Traditionally, it is considered a healing soup, perfect for boosting immunity and soothing the throat during cold and flu season. Its gentle, savory broth is balanced by the earthiness of vegetables and the subtle heat of black pepper, making it suitable for all ages. The inclusion of fresh dhania (coriander) and lemon juice at the end enhances both taste and nutrient value, making this soup a great choice for calorie-conscious eaters. Whether enjoyed during festivals like Lohri or as a comforting meal after a long day, Indian Chicken Soup is a testament to simple, soulful Indian cooking.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 250ml))
- 150 grams Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) (murgh)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped (pyaaz))
- 1 small Carrot (finely diced (gajar))
- 1 medium Tomato (chopped (tamatar))
- 1 inch Ginger (grated (adrak))
- 3 cloves Garlic (crushed (lahsun))
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper powder (kali mirch)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander leaves (chopped (hara dhania))
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice (nimbu ras)
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 3 cups Water (for soup base)
- 1 teaspoon Ghee or olive oil (desi ghee preferred)
Instructions
- 1
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan (kadhai) on medium flame. Add jeera and let it splutter for a few seconds.
2 minutes
Using desi ghee adds authentic flavor and aroma.
- 2
Add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté till onions turn translucent.
3 minutes
Keep stirring to prevent burning and ensure even sautéing.
- 3
Mix in carrots and tomatoes. Cook till tomatoes turn mushy and the vegetables soften.
4 minutes
Cover with a lid to help veggies cook faster.
- 4
Add chicken pieces and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly white on the edges.
3 minutes
Cut chicken into small cubes for quicker cooking and tender texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Indian Chicken Soup is a healthy choice because it combines high-quality protein, minimal oil, and nutrient-dense vegetables in a light, clear broth. The inclusion of traditional Indian spices not only enhances flavor but also boosts metabolism and aids digestion. With no cream or heavy thickeners, it's ideal for those seeking a nourishing, low-calorie meal that is filling and easy on the stomach.
Indian Chicken Soup is packed with lean protein from chicken, which helps in muscle repair and satiety. The use of vegetables like carrots and tomatoes offers vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, supporting immunity and digestion. Spices like ginger, garlic, and black pepper possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, contributing to overall wellness. The soup is low in fat, especially when made with boneless, skinless chicken breast, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use fresh chicken for best flavor and texture.
- 💡Add a pinch of turmeric for extra color and immunity boost.
- 💡Simmer soup on low heat to extract maximum flavor from the ingredients.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove; add a splash of water if it thickens.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 140.0 kcal |
