Bowl of homemade chicken soup with vegetables and herbs

Homemade Chicken Soup

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade chicken soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. It is perfect for chilly days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or just need a meal that feels like a hug. Making chicken soup at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome meal for your loved ones. Plus, there’s something special about cooking with your own hands that adds to the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious bowl of soup.

How to Make Homemade Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1 (3 pound) whole chicken
  • 4 carrots, halved
  • 4 stalks celery, halved
  • 1 large onion, halved
  • Water to cover
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (Optional)

Directions:

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Place the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in a large soup pot. Add enough cold water to cover everything.
  3. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered until the chicken meat falls off the bone, which will take about 90 minutes. Feel free to skim off foam that forms on the top as needed.
  4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool until you can handle it. Chop the meat into pieces, and discard the skin and bones.
  5. Strain the vegetables from the pot, but keep the stock. Rinse the soup pot and return the stock to it.
  6. Chop the reserved vegetables into smaller pieces and put them back in the pot along with the chopped chicken.
  7. Warm the soup until it is heated through. Add salt, pepper, and chicken bouillon to taste.
  8. Serve and enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Soup

Homemade chicken soup is best served hot. You can ladle it into bowls and pair it with some crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley on top for added flavor.

How to Store Homemade Chicken Soup

To store homemade chicken soup, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Tips to Make Homemade Chicken Soup

  • For more flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves while simmering.
  • You can also add more vegetables, such as potatoes or corn, for extra nutrition.
  • If you want a richer flavor, roast the chicken before adding it to the pot.

Variation

You can vary this recipe by using rotisserie chicken instead of a whole chicken. Just skip the simmering step and add the cooked chicken to the stock with the vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks, but the cooking time may vary.

2. Is it necessary to add chicken bouillon?
No, it’s optional! If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can skip it or use less.

3. Can I add noodles to the soup?
Absolutely! If you want to make chicken noodle soup, add egg noodles about 10-15 minutes before the soup is done cooking.