Description
Chicken Soup is a classic, comforting dish known for its warm, soothing qualities and nourishing ingredients. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s perfect for cold days, when feeling under the weather, or any time you crave a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cut into pieces or 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
8 cups water or chicken broth
2 large carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup egg noodles, rice, or pasta (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
In a large pot, combine chicken, water or broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until chicken is cooked and tender.
- Remove chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the broth. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Meanwhile, shred the chicken meat, discarding skin and bones.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- If using noodles or rice, add them now and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add diced potatoes, corn, or peas for extra vegetables.
- Use boneless chicken breasts for a quicker version.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of turmeric for brightness.
- Make it creamy by stirring in coconut milk or cream.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
