A steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup garnished with herbs.

Chicken Soup

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Soup is a comforting classic enjoyed by many. It’s not just warm and hearty; it’s also great for your health. This soup can help soothe a sore throat, provide nourishment when you’re feeling under the weather, and is perfect for cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses basic ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.

How to Make Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

  1. 1.1kg bone-in chicken cutlets, skin removed
  2. 1 large brown onion, halved and finely chopped
  3. 2 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
  4. 2 celery sticks, trimmed and finely chopped
  5. 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
  6. 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh continental parsley stems
  7. 6 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves picked
  8. 3 cups water
  9. 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns
  10. Sea salt flakes
  11. 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh continental parsley, extra
  12. 3 cups chicken stock

Directions:

  1. Combine the chicken, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, parsley, thyme, water, chicken stock, and peppercorns in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for 1 hour or until the chicken is falling off the bones.
  4. Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a clean work surface. Hold it with the tongs and remove the chicken meat from the bones. Discard the bones.
  5. Tear the chicken meat into pieces and return it to the soup.
  6. Simmer uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes.
  7. Taste the soup and season it with sea salt as needed.
  8. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with extra parsley. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Chicken Soup

Serve Chicken Soup hot in bowls. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. It’s also nice to enjoy it with a fresh salad on the side. Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon or hot sauce for an extra kick.

How to Store Chicken Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand while freezing.

Tips to Make Chicken Soup

  1. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs will enhance the soup’s taste significantly.
  2. If you like a richer flavor, you can roast the chicken cuts in the oven before adding them to the soup.
  3. Adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking, as it can be hard to correct if it’s too salty after adding the stock.

Variation

You can add more vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavor if you prefer a zesty taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but cooking times may be shorter since the meat cooks faster without bones.

2. Is Chicken Soup good for colds?
Yes, Chicken Soup is often said to help alleviate cold symptoms and provide comfort due to its warm temperature and nourishing ingredients.

3. Can I make Chicken Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just add all your ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. It will be delicious!