Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a deliciously comforting and nourishing soup, I can’t recommend my Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup Recipe enough. It’s one of those bowls that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day but packs enough wholesome ingredients to keep you fueled and satisfied. Perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple to throw together, this soup combines tender chicken, sweet chunks of sweet potato, and vibrant kale, all simmered in savory broth spiced just right. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through everything so your kitchen smells like magic and your belly is happy.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients come together so well here – the sweetness of the potatoes balances the earthiness of kale, and the spiced chicken broth just brings it all home. When shopping, look for firm sweet potatoes and fresh kale leaves. Using bone-in chicken breasts adds so much flavor, but I’ll share a tip if you prefer boneless below.

• Chicken breasts (on the bone, skin removed): I always opt for bone-in because it adds depth to the broth—just removes the skin for less fat.
• Seasoning salt (like adobo): This is my secret shortcut for boosting flavor without juggling too many spices.
• Olive oil: A splash helps soften the veggies and adds richness.
• Onion: Use a large, yellow onion for sweetness and body.
• Celery stalks: Adds great aromatic background and crunch as you start cooking.
• Garlic cloves: Essential for that savory base—don’t skimp!
• Dried oregano, thyme, and ground cumin: These spices add a warm, layered flavor perfect for chicken soups.
• Reduced sodium chicken broth: Using low sodium lets you control saltiness and keeps it healthy.
• Large sweet potato: Peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes, they soften beautifully without falling apart.
• Kale: Roughly chopped kale wakes up the soup with vibrant color and nutrients.
• Fresh jalapeno: Sliced lengthwise for mild heat and that fresh pepper flavor.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds a bright note toward the end—totally optional if you’re not a fan.

Variations

I love tweaking this recipe based on what I have around or dietary preferences. Feel free to swap ingredients or spices—it’s very forgiving and still super tasty.

• Use boneless chicken breasts or thighs: If you’re short on time, boneless works—just add them in a bit later to avoid overcooking.
• Make it spicier: Add more jalapeno or a dash of cayenne if you love heat—I do when I want an extra kick!
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with hearty beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
• Add other veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini all blend well for extra color and nutrients.

How to Make Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup Recipe

Step 1: Season and Prep Your Chicken

I like to start by seasoning my chicken breasts with the adobo or seasoning salt and letting them sit while I get the veggies ready—this little step helps the chicken really soak in flavor without any extra fuss.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat—then add your chopped onions and celery. Let them soften and turn golden, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This slow cooking builds a deep, cozy flavor base. Once soft, toss in the garlic and your dried oregano, thyme, and cumin, and cook everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth, Chicken, and Herbs

Pour in the chicken broth, nestle in your seasoned chicken breasts, and add the halved jalapeno and fresh cilantro. Put the lid on and let everything simmer gently for 20 minutes. This part is when the chicken cooks through and the broth gets infused with all those flavors.

Step 4: Add Sweet Potato and Kale

After the initial simmer, add your diced sweet potatoes and chopped kale. Keep everything covered and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes more, until those sweet potatoes are soft and the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred Chicken, Remove Jalapeno, and Serve

Take the chicken out of the pot and shred or chop it, discarding the bones. Toss the shredded chicken back into the soup and fish out that jalapeno (unless you want extra spice!). Then ladle this into bowls and get ready to enjoy. I swear, the smell alone will have you drooling.

How to Serve Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro on top right before serving—it brightens the soup so nicely. Sometimes, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a lovely creaminess that cools down the spice.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal on its own, but I love pairing it with warm crusty bread or a side salad for something lighter. When I want to up the comfort factor, garlic bread or cheesy cornbread alongside makes everyone extra happy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, try serving the soup in mini bread bowls or rustic mugs. I once made this for a winter gathering and set the table with garnishes in little bowls nearby, so everyone could customize their own bowl of soup—turned out so fun and festive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the soup cool to room temperature, then store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge; it keeps beautifully for 3 to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together.

Freezing

This Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup Recipe freezes really well. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags—just be sure to leave some headspace as it expands. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for a quick reheat.

Reheating

I reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to make sure the sweet potatoes stay tender and kale doesn’t get soggy. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation. It’s that perfect balance of hearty and healthy, comforting yet fresh, and always a crowd-pleaser with family and friends. When I first tried it, I was hooked by how easy it was and how well the flavors melded together with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to make it and discover your own love for this bowl of goodness—you’ll be reaching for it again and again, just like me!

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