Start by filling your large stock pot with water (about two-thirds full) and set it over medium-high heat. Drizzle in a little olive oil to help the spices bloom. Add salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of turmeric. Let it come to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. This is the base of your soup’s flavor, so don't hold back on the seasoning.
Once the broth starts boiling, add the shredded cooked chicken. Stir it in so the flavors begin to combine. Then, toss in the sliced celery and chopped carrots. Let them simmer for 10–12 minutes or until they begin to soften. These vegetables give the soup structure and a comforting texture, so don’t rush this part.
Next, stir in the potatoes and your choice of pasta (chickpea spirals recommended for extra protein). These take a bit longer to cook and absorb flavor from the broth. Cook for another 10–12 minutes, keeping the pot at a steady simmer. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
When the potatoes are nearly tender, add the quartered zucchinis and sprinkle in chopped parsley. These ingredients cook fast and don’t need much time. Turn off the heat, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup rest for 10 minutes. This lets everything finish cooking gently and brings out the final layer of flavor.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with a wedge of lime on the side. The citrus adds a fresh, tangy finish that complements the deep flavors of the broth. It’s great with crusty bread or just on its own.