This warm chicken soup is perfect for chilly days! Packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and comforting broth, it’s a bowl of happiness.
You can’t go wrong with this classic dish—it’s great for boosting the spirits. I love to sip on it when I’m feeling a bit under the weather. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole chicken: A whole chicken adds rich flavor, but bone-in chicken thighs are a great substitute if you want a quicker option. They’re juicy and easy to shred!
Water or broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth amps up the flavor, but if you only have water, it still works. If you’re vegan, vegetable stock is a tasty swap, though it will give a different flavor.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery are classic for chicken soup. You could also use parsnips or add peas for a touch of sweetness. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley bring great taste, but fresh herbs will really elevate the flavor if you have them! You can also experiment with dill or rosemary for a twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken cooked just right is key to a delicious soup. The goal is tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone!
- Always start by bringing the pot to a boil with the chicken covered with water or broth, then reduce to simmer.
- Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Check after an hour to see if the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- If using a thermometer, chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remember to let the chicken cool slightly before shredding to avoid burning your hands!
With these tips, you’ll have a comforting chicken soup that warms the soul! Enjoy!
How to Make Classic Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces or use bone-in chicken thighs
- 10 cups water (or low-sodium chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus fresh for garnish if desired)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cup egg noodles or rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This classic chicken soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. Plan on a total of around 2 hours for a comforting, homemade soup that warms you up from the inside out!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start the Soup Base:
In a large pot, place the chicken pieces and cover them with water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, turn it down to a simmer, reducing the heat.
2. Skim the Surface:
During the first 10 minutes of simmering, skim off any foam or impurities that float to the top. This will help make your soup look and taste better!
3. Add the Vegetables and Herbs:
Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, celery, dried thyme, dried parsley, and bay leaves to the pot. Give everything a good stir, and sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let it Simmer:
Allow the soup to simmer gently, uncovered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This will cook the chicken and allow all the delicious flavors to come together.
5. Cool and Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked and tender, carefully remove the pieces from the pot and set them aside to cool for a few minutes. Don’t forget to discard the bay leaves!
6. Shred the Chicken:
When the chicken is cool enough to touch, shred the meat off the bones and discard the bones and skin. This shredded chicken will go back into the soup.
7. Add Noodles or Rice (Optional):
If you like, add in egg noodles or rice at this point. Follow the package directions to cook them until tender in the soup.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your soup! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The goal is a perfectly seasoned, comforting broth.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve it hot with some crackers or crusty bread for the perfect meal!
Enjoy your wholesome, comforting homemade chicken soup! It’s truly a dish that warms the heart.
Can I Use Leftover Roast Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken works wonderfully. Simply add the shredded meat to the soup near the end of cooking to heat through. You can skip the boiling step and just simmer the vegetables in the broth!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still enjoy all the wonderful veggies!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze Chicken Soup?
Definitely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
