Easy Chicken Soup Recipe: A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe? Look no further than this easy chicken soup recipe! This classic dish is perfect for a cozy night in, a quick weeknight meal, or when you're feeling under the weather. It's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wholesome and delicious choice for everyone.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks. You'll need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: For maximum flavor, bone-in chicken is best.
- 12 cups water: This ensures a good amount of broth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a subtle earthiness.
- 1 onion, chopped: A foundation for savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb for chicken soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Optional additions: Noodles, rice, or other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or green beans can be added for extra heartiness.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious chicken soup:
Step 1: Simmer the Chicken
- Place the whole chicken (or chicken thighs) in a large stockpot.
- Add the water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through. If using chicken thighs, reduce simmering time to about 45 minutes.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 3: Strain and Return
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the vegetables and any remaining impurities.
- Return the strained broth to the pot.
- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Heat through and serve hot. You can add your favorite noodles, rice, or other vegetables at this point if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives (optional).
Tips for the Best Chicken Soup
- For a richer broth: Use a combination of chicken pieces, including wings and backs.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and stringy.
- Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.
- Make it ahead: Chicken soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations to Explore:
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Lemon Chicken Soup: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Chicken Noodle Soup: Add egg noodles during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
This easy chicken soup recipe is a versatile base that you can adapt to your liking. Enjoy creating your own comforting bowl of goodness! Let us know in the comments what your favorite variations are!
