High-Protein Weight Loss Soup Recipe
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.
- Author: Sana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
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
- 2–3 cups zucchini, quartered (adjust based on preference)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley or thyme, to taste
- Preparation: Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have a large soup pot and a sharp knife ready for chopping.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to infuse the meat with rich flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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