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High-Protein Weight Loss Soup Recipe

4.5 from 78 reviews

This High-Protein Weight Loss Soup is a hearty and nutritious option packed with lean ground turkey or chicken, fresh vegetables, and warming spices. Designed to support weight loss and muscle maintenance, this soup combines protein-rich ingredients with fiber-heavy veggies in a flavorful broth seasoned with Italian herbs and a touch of heat. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that helps keep you full and energized.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup Base

  • 4 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, chopped
  • 4 tsp minced garlic
  • 4 lbs ground turkey or chicken (lean meat for high protein content)
  • 16 cups chicken broth (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)

For Seasoning

  • 4 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 4 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 large lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
  • 1 tsp turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits)

Vegetables and Legumes

  • 4 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups celery, chopped
  • 2 cups green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 3 cups cabbage, shredded
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 23 cups zucchini, quartered (adjust based on preference)

For Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have a large soup pot and a sharp knife ready for chopping.
  2. Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: Pour the avocado oil into the pot and heat over medium until shimmering. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Cook Ground Meat: Add the ground turkey or chicken to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for about 5–7 minutes until the meat is no longer pink.
  4. Add Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to infuse the meat with rich flavor.
  5. Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Add the carrots, celery, green beans, sweet potatoes, and shredded cabbage, mixing everything thoroughly.
  6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften and flavors to meld.
  7. Add Chickpeas and Zucchini: Stir in the drained chickpeas and quartered zucchini. Continue to simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
  8. Optional Flavor Boosts: If desired, add fresh lemon juice and turmeric at this stage for brightness and anti-inflammatory benefits. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as necessary.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme to add a fresh herbal note before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey with lean ground chicken or even lean beef according to preference.
  • The chicken broth can be homemade or store-bought, but low-sodium versions are recommended to control salt levels.
  • If you prefer a spicier soup, increase cayenne pepper gradually to taste.
  • The soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit meat and use vegetable broth instead, increasing beans or lentils for protein.
  • Adjust the amount of liquid if you prefer a thicker or thinner soup consistency.

Keywords: high protein soup, weight loss soup, healthy turkey soup, lean protein recipe, high fiber soup, low fat soup