As the weather cools and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, nourishing bowl of soup to bring comfort to the table. This Chicken & Collard Greens Soup with Ginger is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh, locally grown produce — especially those tender, nutrient-packed collard greens that make their way into our Veggie Boxes this season. With a bright finish of lemon and a touch of fresh cilantro, this recipe brings a refreshing twist to the classic chicken soup you know and love.
Why Collard Greens Deserve the Spotlight
Collard greens, often overshadowed by kale or spinach, are a true superstar in the leafy greens family. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, calcium, and antioxidants, collards are a powerhouse ingredient that boosts immunity, supports bone health, and helps maintain glowing skin. Their slightly earthy taste and tender texture make them a perfect addition to this comforting soup.
The Recipe: Chicken & Collard Greens Soup with Ginger
This recipe not only features our fresh collard greens but also includes zesty ginger, which adds a warming spice and numerous health benefits — from aiding digestion to fighting inflammation.
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken thighs or breasts (bone in thighs add more flavor)
1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and thinly chopped
2 carrots, minced
2 celery stalks, minced
1 onion, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
4 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of lemon at end as desired
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Optional: drizzle with sesame oil when serving
Optional: add noddles to cook at end
Instructions:
Brown the Chicken: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and brown the chicken on both sides to develop flavor. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, ginger, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are fragrant and softened.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Return the chicken to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Add the collard greens and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the greens are tender. Optional: add noodles to cook at end or add cooked rice.
Finish with Lemon: Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame oil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Chicken & Collard Greens Soup
Use bone-in chicken: If you have bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, they add even more flavor to the broth as they cook. Just be sure to remove the bones before shredding.
Don’t skip the lemon: The splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish and balances the richness of the chicken and greens.
Customize your veggies: While this recipe features carrots and celery, feel free to add seasonal veggies like sweet potatoes, turnips, or parsnips for an extra layer of flavor.
Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why Farm-Fresh Produce Makes a Difference
There’s something special about cooking with ingredients that come straight from the farm. When you choose locally grown produce, you’re not only getting food that’s fresher and more flavorful but also supporting sustainable agriculture and local farmers.
At Arrows Farm, we pride ourselves on growing a variety of high-quality vegetables, including the collard greens featured in this recipe. Our Veggie Boxes are carefully curated to showcase the best of each season, so you can enjoy fresh, nutritious ingredients in every meal.
Discover Our Veggie Box Program
If you’re not yet part of our Veggie Box program, now’s the perfect time to join! Our Veggie Boxes are available in 10-week or 20-week options, giving you flexibility to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce straight from our farm to your table.
What’s Included?
Seasonal Favorites: From collard greens and carrots to peppers, squash, and more, each box is filled with a rotating selection of freshly harvested produce.
Exclusive Recipes: Along with your veggies, you’ll receive easy-to-follow recipes (like this Chicken & Collard Greens Soup!) to help you make the most of your box.
Community Connection: By joining our Veggie Box program, you’re supporting local agriculture and connecting with the community in a meaningful way.
How It Works:
Choose Your Subscription: Select from 20 week or bi-weekly pickups to suit your household’s needs.
Pick Up Fresh Produce: Our first pickup dates begin on May 26th and May 27th, with the program running through October.
Enjoy the Flavors of the Season: Create wholesome, delicious meals with farm-fresh ingredients that you can feel good about.
A Bowl Full of Comfort, Straight from the Farm
There’s nothing more satisfying than a meal made with love and fresh, local ingredients. This Chicken & Collard Greens Soup with Ginger is a true testament to the power of farm-to-table cooking. Whether you’re savoring this soup on a chilly evening or sharing it with family and friends, it’s a recipe that’s sure to warm both the body and soul.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Veggie Box, gather your ingredients, and get cooking. And don’t forget to tag us on social media when you try this recipe (@thearrowsfarm)— we’d love to see your creations!
Ready to reserve your Veggie Box? Click here to join our program and bring the best of the farm to your table.
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