Chicken Soup Recipe

This Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe is my absolute favorite soup recipe and is so easy to make from scratch! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when you’re feeling under the weather, this comforting dish offers warmth and nutrition in every bowl. With fresh vegetables and tender chicken, it brings an explosion of flavor that will surely delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This chicken soup recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of simmered chicken and sautéed vegetables creates a deeply satisfying taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your preference.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and vitamins, this soup is both nourishing and delicious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Dutch oven or large pot
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Essential for making the broth; its size allows for enough space to boil the chicken properly.
• Dutch oven or large pot: Perfect for sautéing vegetables; its heavy base ensures even cooking without burning.
• Fine-mesh strainer: Crucial for separating the broth from the solids; it helps achieve a clear, flavorful soup.

Ingredients

This Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe is my absolute favorite soup recipe and is so easy to make from scratch!

For the Broth

• 10-12 bone-in skinless chicken thighs
• 3 quarts cold water

For the Mirepoix

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 yellow onions (peeled and diced)
• 8 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 6 ribs celery (chopped)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

For Flavoring

• Juice from one lemon
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh chopped parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chicken Soup Recipe

Step 1: Make Your Broth

Add the chicken thighs to a large stockpot. Pour in approximately 3-4 quarts of cold water. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for approximately 30-45 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables (Mirepoix)

As the broth simmers, chop and prepare your vegetables. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Add the onion and cook, stirring often, for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking over medium heat for another 10-15 minutes.
3. In the last two minutes, add minced garlic along with salt and pepper. Mix well and add bay leaves. Reduce heat if necessary to avoid browning.

Step 3: Strain the Broth

Once simmering is complete, remove broth from heat. Use tongs to take out the chicken thighs from the pot. Transfer them to a clean cutting board to cool.
1. Carefully strain broth through a fine-mesh strainer back into the same pot as the cooked vegetables.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once cool enough to handle, use two forks or your hands to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later use.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Add lemon juice back into the pot with strained broth and bring it back to a boil.
1. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for another 30 minutes until all vegetables are fully cooked.
2. In the last 5-10 minutes, return shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 6: Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired before serving hot!

How to Serve Chicken Soup Recipe

Serving chicken soup is a delightful experience that can be tailored to various tastes and occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your homemade chicken soup.

Classic Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of fresh, crusty bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the soup perfectly.
• Saltine Crackers: A traditional choice, saltine crackers add a nice crunch and are great for those who enjoy a bit of texture in their soup.

Garnishing Options

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Add freshness by garnishing with chopped parsley or dill. This enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of citrus for an extra zing.

Creative Twists

• Noodles or Rice: Include egg noodles or rice as a base for the soup. This makes it more filling and adds another layer of texture.
• Spicy Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, offer hot sauce or chili flakes on the side to spice up individual bowls.

How to Perfect Chicken Soup Recipe

Perfecting your chicken soup recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish.

• bold Use quality ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken thighs. This ensures rich flavor in your broth.
• bold Don’t rush the simmering process: Allow the broth to simmer slowly. This enhances the depth of flavor in your soup.
• bold Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go! Start with a little salt and pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
• bold Experiment with herbs: Try adding thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that complements chicken nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Soup Recipe

Pairing sides with chicken soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its comforting flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth; it’s easy to make by spreading garlic butter on sliced baguette and baking until golden.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to warm soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, and spices; they offer a hearty addition that complements the lightness of chicken soup.
4. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus present a healthy crunch alongside the soup.
5. Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches made with your favorite cheese make for a melty delight that pairs beautifully with hot soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a nutritious side that’s both filling and refreshing.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a slightly sweet contrast to savory chicken soup, making them an appealing choice.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned simply can add an earthy element to your meal’s balance.

By following these suggestions, you’ll not only enjoy your chicken soup recipe but also create memorable dining experiences!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold Ingredient Choices: Using low-quality ingredients can ruin your soup. Always choose fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Bold Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become dry. Monitor cooking time carefully and remove the chicken once it’s fully cooked.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting seasoning can lead to bland soup. Ensure you properly season throughout cooking and taste as you go for optimal flavor.
• Bold Uneven Vegetable Cuts: Cutting vegetables in uneven sizes can result in inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even tenderness.
• Bold Not Straining Broth: Failing to strain the broth can lead to a gritty texture. Always strain your broth for a smoother finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken Soup Recipe

• Freeze chicken soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious chicken soup recipe.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well too. They may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How long does this Chicken Soup Recipe take?

The total time is about 110 minutes, including preparation and cooking, making it a great option for a hearty meal.

What can I add for more flavor?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for additional flavors. You can also toss in some noodles or rice for a heartier dish.

How do I make this Chicken Soup Recipe healthier?

You can reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and adjusting salt levels. Adding more vegetables will also enhance nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Homemade Chicken Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe, a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare from scratch. With tender chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup not only nourishes the body but also soothes the soul. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or when you need a comforting pick-me-up during colder months. The rich flavors simmer together beautifully, making it a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Customize it with your choice of herbs or add noodles for an extra touch of heartiness. Enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness today!

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Ingredients

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• 10–12 bone-in skinless chicken thighs
• 3 quarts cold water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 yellow onions, diced
• 8 large carrots, chopped
• 6 ribs celery, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice from one lemon
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large stockpot, add chicken thighs and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent; add carrots and celery and cook until tender. Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
3. Strain the broth into the vegetable pot, shred the chicken once cooled, and return to the soup.
4. Add lemon juice and simmer for an additional 30 minutes before serving hot with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 110 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 265
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg