This ginger chicken soup is a simple, warming way to welcome the new season.
As summer transitions into fall, nature reminds us that change is part of the rhythm of life. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, fall is associated with letting go, slowing down, and turning inward. As the weather cools, this can be a beautiful time to shift from lighter, cooling foods toward meals that are warm, cooked and grounding.
Sometimes, the seasonal shift can begin with something as simple as a warm bowl of soup.
Why Ginger Chicken Soup Is Perfect for Fall
This simple, nourishing soup combines chicken and rice with naturally sweet root vegetables and warming ginger. In TCM, these foods are traditionally associated with supporting the Spleen and Stomach and are a great way to bring in more warmth and nourishment as we move into fall.
Ginger Chicken Soup Recipe with Root Vegetables
Serves 4–6 · Prep: 15 min · Cook: 35 min
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2–3 carrots, chopped
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1–2 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- ½ cup uncooked white rice or 1½ cups cooked rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 1–2 tsp tamari
- 1 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- Fresh scallions, sesame oil and pepper, to finish
Method
- Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery and sweet potato. Gently sauté for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the ginger and garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the broth and uncooked rice. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables and rice are tender. If using cooked rice, add it during the final 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and bok choy and simmer for another 3–5 minutes.
- Add the tamari and salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Finish with fresh scallions, a dash of sesame oil and freshly ground pepper.
Fall Wellness Beyond the Kitchen: A Chiropractic Perspective
In practice, I often see how seasonal transitions show up in the body. Cooler temperatures tend to bring tighter muscles, stiffer joints and less movement as we spend more time indoors. Just as warm, grounding meals help us adjust from the inside out, caring for your spine and nervous system helps your whole body adapt to the change of season.
Simple Ways to Support Your Body This Fall
Keep moving. Shorter days make it easy to sit more. A daily walk or a few minutes of gentle stretching keeps your joints mobile and your circulation flowing.
Stay warm. Cold, tense muscles are more prone to strain. Layer up, especially around your neck and shoulders, where many of us hold tension.
Mind your posture in the kitchen. While chopping vegetables for this soup, stand with your weight evenly on both feet, keep your shoulders relaxed and bring the cutting board close to avoid hunching forward.
Rest and slow down. Fall’s invitation to turn inward is a good reminder that your nervous system needs downtime too. Prioritize quality sleep and moments of calm.
Stay hydrated. As the weather cools, it’s easy to drink less. Your body, including the discs of your spine, relies on good hydration, and warm soups and herbal teas count.
Schedule a seasonal check-in. Regular chiropractic care can help address stiffness and restrictions before they turn into pain, keeping your spine and nervous system functioning at their best.
If the shift into fall has left you feeling stiff, achy or out of balance, now is a great time to book a visit and give your body the same care and attention you put into a nourishing bowl of soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Use vegetable broth, skip the chicken and add chickpeas or cubed tofu for protein.
Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely. Add 1½ cups of cooked rice during the final 5 minutes of cooking.
How long does it keep?
Cooler temperatures and less daily movement can leave muscles tighter and joints less mobile. Staying active, keeping warm and regular chiropractic check-ins can help your body adjust.
How long does it keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The rice will absorb broth, so add a splash more when reheating.
Dr. Erin Madonia has been providing chiropractic care to the King West neighbourhood since 2014, specializing in safe and effective relief of spinal complaints while optimizing central nervous system function. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact us at dr.erin.madonia@gmail.com or visit our office at 130 Spadina Ave, Suite 808, Toronto.
