Homemade Chicken Soup Nourishing and Simple Dish

ByZara
To make a hearty chicken soup, gather these key items: - 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cleaned and cut into quarters - 8 cups chicken broth or stock - 2 medium carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 1 large onion, chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut - 1 cup potatoes, diced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 2 bay leaves - Salt and black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish This list will help you create a rich and warming soup. You can make your soup even better with some add-ins like: - Fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick - Corn for sweetness and texture - Spinach or kale for extra greens - Noodles or rice for added heartiness - Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat These options can take your soup to the next level. Each ingredient in this soup brings its own health perks: - Chicken provides protein and essential vitamins. - Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, good for your eyes. - Celery contains fiber and helps with hydration. - Garlic has immune-boosting properties. - Green beans and potatoes add fiber and nutrients. - Olive oil offers healthy fats that keep your heart happy. Together, these ingredients create a dish that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather your ingredients. You need a whole chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, green beans, and potatoes. Cut your vegetables into small pieces. Dice the carrots and celery. Chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic. This prep makes your soup tasty and colorful. Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about three to four minutes. You want them soft and see-through. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup. Now, add the quartered chicken to the pot. Sear it on all sides until it turns golden brown. This should take about five to seven minutes. The browning adds a rich taste to the broth. Once the chicken is browned, pour in eight cups of chicken broth. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This keeps your soup clear and clean. Next, add the diced carrots, celery, green beans, and potatoes to the pot. Toss in one teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary. Add two bay leaves for extra depth. Season your mixture with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir everything well. Cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook fully and become tender. You will know it's ready when the chicken pulls away from the bone easily. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Set it on a plate to cool. Discard the bay leaves. When the chicken is cool enough to touch, shred the meat with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Taste your soup now. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper according to your preference. This final step ensures your soup is just right. Serve the hot soup in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch. Enjoy the warm, soothing flavors that make homemade chicken soup special! To boost the flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme and rosemary add bright notes. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty touch. Another tip is to use homemade chicken broth. It gives a rich taste that store-bought broth can’t match. One mistake is not sautéing the onions and garlic first. This step builds a great base flavor. Another mistake is adding too much salt at once. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Also, don’t rush the simmering time. Letting the soup cook slowly helps deepen the flavors. Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. This keeps it warm longer. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner later. Pro Tips Use Quality Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth. It significantly enhances the taste of the soup. Shred Chicken Efficiently: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding. Use two forks to easily pull apart the meat, ensuring it remains tender and juicy. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to tailor the soup to your taste. Make It Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep! {{image_4}} For a gluten-free chicken soup, use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the label to ensure it has no added gluten. You can still use the same ingredients from the main recipe. Just avoid any gluten-containing add-ins, like noodles or bread. This soup is hearty and safe for those with gluten issues. To make a low-sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also leave out added salt. Instead, focus on herbs and spices to boost flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add taste without salt. This way, you can enjoy a tasty soup while watching your sodium intake. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can swap the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The veggies you choose can include carrots, celery, and potatoes. Add spices like thyme and rosemary for that comforting flavor. This version keeps the warmth of chicken soup while being meat-free. To store your homemade chicken soup, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it by. If you want to freeze the soup, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the flavor fresh and tasty. To reheat your chicken soup, pour it into a pot. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often. If the soup is too thick, add a bit of water or broth. You can also use the microwave. Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute. This helps it heat evenly. Homemade chicken soup can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Frozen chicken soup stays good for 2 to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before you freeze it. Yes, you can use leftover chicken! It’s a great way to save time. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup base. You can skip the step of cooking the chicken from scratch. This makes the soup quick and easy. If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth. Water is another option, but it may lack flavor. You can enhance it by adding spices or herbs. Another great choice is homemade stock, which adds depth to the soup. To make chicken soup in a slow cooker, start by adding your ingredients. Place the chicken, veggies, and broth in the pot. Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Once done, shred the chicken and mix it back in. Enjoy your warm soup! You now know how to make delicious homemade chicken soup. We covered essential ingredients and tips to enhance flavor. You also learned how to avoid common mistakes and store your soup properly. Remember, you can adapt the recipe for gluten-free or vegetarian options. Enjoy your soup-making journey. Each bowl is a chance to create warmth and comfort. You will impress your family and friends with your skills. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms you up like homemade chicken soup. It’s simple to make, and it fills your home with a cozy aroma. In this guide, I’ll walk you through essential ingredients, easy steps, and some clever tips to enhance the flavor. Plus, you’ll learn about tasty variations and smart storage methods. Let’s dive into the comforting world of chicken soup!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting Warmth: This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
  2. Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
  3. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this cozy chicken soup, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner.
  4. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe allows you to create a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Soup

To make a hearty chicken soup, gather these key items:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cleaned and cut into quarters

– 8 cups chicken broth or stock

– 2 medium carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 1 large onion, chopped

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut

– 1 cup potatoes, diced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 2 bay leaves

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

This list will help you create a rich and warming soup.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

You can make your soup even better with some add-ins like:

– Fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick

– Corn for sweetness and texture

– Spinach or kale for extra greens

– Noodles or rice for added heartiness

– Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat

These options can take your soup to the next level.

Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this soup brings its own health perks:

– Chicken provides protein and essential vitamins.

– Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, good for your eyes.

– Celery contains fiber and helps with hydration.

– Garlic has immune-boosting properties.

– Green beans and potatoes add fiber and nutrients.

– Olive oil offers healthy fats that keep your heart happy.

Together, these ingredients create a dish that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables and Chicken

First, gather your ingredients. You need a whole chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, green beans, and potatoes. Cut your vegetables into small pieces. Dice the carrots and celery. Chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic. This prep makes your soup tasty and colorful.

Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about three to four minutes. You want them soft and see-through. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Now, add the quartered chicken to the pot. Sear it on all sides until it turns golden brown. This should take about five to seven minutes. The browning adds a rich taste to the broth.

Cooking the Soup Base

Once the chicken is browned, pour in eight cups of chicken broth. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This keeps your soup clear and clean.

Next, add the diced carrots, celery, green beans, and potatoes to the pot. Toss in one teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary. Add two bay leaves for extra depth. Season your mixture with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir everything well.

Cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook fully and become tender. You will know it’s ready when the chicken pulls away from the bone easily.

Shredding the Chicken and Final Touches

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Set it on a plate to cool. Discard the bay leaves. When the chicken is cool enough to touch, shred the meat with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Taste your soup now. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper according to your preference. This final step ensures your soup is just right.

Serve the hot soup in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch. Enjoy the warm, soothing flavors that make homemade chicken soup special!

Tips & Tricks

How to Enhance Flavor in Your Chicken Soup

To boost the flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme and rosemary add bright notes. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty touch. Another tip is to use homemade chicken broth. It gives a rich taste that store-bought broth can’t match.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One mistake is not sautéing the onions and garlic first. This step builds a great base flavor. Another mistake is adding too much salt at once. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Also, don’t rush the simmering time. Letting the soup cook slowly helps deepen the flavors.

Best Practices for Serving

Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. This keeps it warm longer. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner later.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Quality Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth. It significantly enhances the taste of the soup.
  2. Shred Chicken Efficiently: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding. Use two forks to easily pull apart the meat, ensuring it remains tender and juicy.
  3. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to tailor the soup to your taste.
  4. Make It Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!

Variations

Gluten-Free Chicken Soup Recipe

For a gluten-free chicken soup, use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the label to ensure it has no added gluten. You can still use the same ingredients from the main recipe. Just avoid any gluten-containing add-ins, like noodles or bread. This soup is hearty and safe for those with gluten issues.

Low-Sodium Chicken Soup Options

To make a low-sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also leave out added salt. Instead, focus on herbs and spices to boost flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add taste without salt. This way, you can enjoy a tasty soup while watching your sodium intake.

Vegetarian Alternatives for Chicken Soup

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can swap the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The veggies you choose can include carrots, celery, and potatoes. Add spices like thyme and rosemary for that comforting flavor. This version keeps the warmth of chicken soup while being meat-free.

Storage Info

How to Properly Store Homemade Chicken Soup

To store your homemade chicken soup, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it by.

Best Practices for Freezing Chicken Soup

If you want to freeze the soup, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the flavor fresh and tasty.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your chicken soup, pour it into a pot. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often. If the soup is too thick, add a bit of water or broth. You can also use the microwave. Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute. This helps it heat evenly.

FAQs

How long does homemade chicken soup last?

Homemade chicken soup can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Frozen chicken soup stays good for 2 to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before you freeze it.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken! It’s a great way to save time. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup base. You can skip the step of cooking the chicken from scratch. This makes the soup quick and easy.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth. Water is another option, but it may lack flavor. You can enhance it by adding spices or herbs. Another great choice is homemade stock, which adds depth to the soup.

How do I make chicken soup in a slow cooker?

To make chicken soup in a slow cooker, start by adding your ingredients. Place the chicken, veggies, and broth in the pot. Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Once done, shred the chicken and mix it back in. Enjoy your warm soup!

You now know how to make delicious homemade chicken soup. We covered essential ingredients and tips to enhance flavor. You also learned how to avoid common mistakes and store your soup properly. Remember, you can adapt the recipe for gluten-free or vegetarian options.

Enjoy your soup-making journey. Each bowl is a chance to create warmth and comfort. You will impress your family and friends with your skills. Happy cookin

To make a hearty chicken soup, gather these key items: - 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cleaned and cut into quarters - 8 cups chicken broth or stock - 2 medium carrots, diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 1 large onion, chopped - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut - 1 cup potatoes, diced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - 2 bay leaves - Salt and black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish This list will help you create a rich and warming soup. You can make your soup even better with some add-ins like: - Fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick - Corn for sweetness and texture - Spinach or kale for extra greens - Noodles or rice for added heartiness - Red pepper flakes for a hint of heat These options can take your soup to the next level. Each ingredient in this soup brings its own health perks: - Chicken provides protein and essential vitamins. - Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, good for your eyes. - Celery contains fiber and helps with hydration. - Garlic has immune-boosting properties. - Green beans and potatoes add fiber and nutrients. - Olive oil offers healthy fats that keep your heart happy. Together, these ingredients create a dish that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather your ingredients. You need a whole chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, green beans, and potatoes. Cut your vegetables into small pieces. Dice the carrots and celery. Chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic. This prep makes your soup tasty and colorful. Next, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about three to four minutes. You want them soft and see-through. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup. Now, add the quartered chicken to the pot. Sear it on all sides until it turns golden brown. This should take about five to seven minutes. The browning adds a rich taste to the broth. Once the chicken is browned, pour in eight cups of chicken broth. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This keeps your soup clear and clean. Next, add the diced carrots, celery, green beans, and potatoes to the pot. Toss in one teaspoon each of dried thyme and rosemary. Add two bay leaves for extra depth. Season your mixture with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir everything well. Cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook fully and become tender. You will know it's ready when the chicken pulls away from the bone easily. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Set it on a plate to cool. Discard the bay leaves. When the chicken is cool enough to touch, shred the meat with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Taste your soup now. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper according to your preference. This final step ensures your soup is just right. Serve the hot soup in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright touch. Enjoy the warm, soothing flavors that make homemade chicken soup special! To boost the flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme and rosemary add bright notes. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty touch. Another tip is to use homemade chicken broth. It gives a rich taste that store-bought broth can’t match. One mistake is not sautéing the onions and garlic first. This step builds a great base flavor. Another mistake is adding too much salt at once. Taste as you go to find the right balance. Also, don’t rush the simmering time. Letting the soup cook slowly helps deepen the flavors. Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. This keeps it warm longer. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner later. Pro Tips Use Quality Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth. It significantly enhances the taste of the soup. Shred Chicken Efficiently: Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding. Use two forks to easily pull apart the meat, ensuring it remains tender and juicy. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to tailor the soup to your taste. Make It Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep! {{image_4}} For a gluten-free chicken soup, use gluten-free chicken broth. Check the label to ensure it has no added gluten. You can still use the same ingredients from the main recipe. Just avoid any gluten-containing add-ins, like noodles or bread. This soup is hearty and safe for those with gluten issues. To make a low-sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also leave out added salt. Instead, focus on herbs and spices to boost flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add taste without salt. This way, you can enjoy a tasty soup while watching your sodium intake. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can swap the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The veggies you choose can include carrots, celery, and potatoes. Add spices like thyme and rosemary for that comforting flavor. This version keeps the warmth of chicken soup while being meat-free. To store your homemade chicken soup, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you know when to eat it by. If you want to freeze the soup, use freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the flavor fresh and tasty. To reheat your chicken soup, pour it into a pot. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often. If the soup is too thick, add a bit of water or broth. You can also use the microwave. Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute. This helps it heat evenly. Homemade chicken soup can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Frozen chicken soup stays good for 2 to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool before you freeze it. Yes, you can use leftover chicken! It’s a great way to save time. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup base. You can skip the step of cooking the chicken from scratch. This makes the soup quick and easy. If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth. Water is another option, but it may lack flavor. You can enhance it by adding spices or herbs. Another great choice is homemade stock, which adds depth to the soup. To make chicken soup in a slow cooker, start by adding your ingredients. Place the chicken, veggies, and broth in the pot. Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Once done, shred the chicken and mix it back in. Enjoy your warm soup! You now know how to make delicious homemade chicken soup. We covered essential ingredients and tips to enhance flavor. You also learned how to avoid common mistakes and store your soup properly. Remember, you can adapt the recipe for gluten-free or vegetarian options. Enjoy your soup-making journey. Each bowl is a chance to create warmth and comfort. You will impress your family and friends with your skills. Happy cooking!

Cozy Chicken Soup

A heartwarming chicken soup filled with vegetables and herbs, perfect for chilly days.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds), cleaned and cut into quarters
  • 8 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 2 medium carrots, diced into small pieces
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 large onion, chopped finely
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into thirds
  • 1 cup potatoes, diced into small cubes
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 leaves bay leaves
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Carefully add the quartered chicken to the pot, searing it on all sides until it turns lightly golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
  • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon to skim off any foam that may rise to the top.
  • Stir in the diced carrots, celery, green beans, and potatoes. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, then season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Cover the pot with a lid and allow the soup to simmer for approximately 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to pull away from the bone easily.
  • Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken quarters from the pot and set them on a plate to cool slightly. Discard the bay leaves. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones using two forks and return the shredded chicken back into the soup.
  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt and pepper according to your preference.
  • Serve the hot soup in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors and aroma!

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables or adjust seasoning to your taste.
Keyword chicken soup, comfort food, soup

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Related Posts