My Gotta Get Lean Chicken Soup

Why is it called Gotta Get Lean?

For more than 30 years, I’ve been tasked with getting actors and musicians ready for film, television, and photo shoots. When time is short and results matter, the key is simple, repeatable habits in the kitchen.

The results are guaranteed when the meals are this easy and nutrient-dense (and yes, delicious). And when the cooking gets easier, the effort towards health living is easier too.

This chicken soup is one of my favorites. Growing up, I remember watching my grandmother spend the entire day making her chicken soup. It was incredible how much effort and care she put into it. I don’t have the time (or attention span) to spend hours in the kitchen. This version takes about 10 minutes, but it delivers serious flavor, and packs an impressive amount of protein.

More importantly, it works.

Each serving has around 280 calories and 57 grams of protein. Do you need 50+ grams of protein in one sitting? Probably not. But when protein is high, you can eat a smaller portion and still meet your needs.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken bone broth
• 1 vegetable bouillon cube (clean, natural varieties work best)
• 3–4 carrots, chopped
• 2 cans low-sodium chicken breast
• Fresh spinach

Directions:

Start by adding the bone broth to a pot over medium heat.
Add the vegetable bouillon cube and stir until dissolved.

Immediately add the chopped carrots.

Next, add the canned chicken breast.

Yes. Canned chicken. If you eat canned tuna or salmon, this shouldn’t be controversial. Canned proteins are hygienic, convenient, cost-effective, and nutritionally solid. There are no preservatives or additives. The protein is simply steamed in water and sealed until you open it.

Add a large fistful of spinach and stir until it wilts down, then add another fistful.

Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Simple. Fast. High-protein.
This is exactly the kind of meal that makes getting lean feel sustainable.