Chicken Soup is a classic, comforting dish enjoyed in many variations worldwide. Below is a traditional recipe for hearty, homemade chicken soup, with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and vegetables.


Ingredients:

  • Chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs) or 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs/drumsticks
  • Water or chicken stock: 8 cups
  • Vegetables:
    • Onion: 1 large, quartered
    • Carrots: 2–3, sliced
    • Celery: 2–3 stalks, chopped
    • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (optional)
    • Potato or parsnip: 1 large, diced (optional)
  • Seasoning:
    • Bay leaf: 1–2
    • Fresh thyme: 2–3 sprigs, or 1 teaspoon dried
    • Salt and freshly ground pepper: To taste
    • Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional starches:
    • Egg noodles, rice, or small pasta: 1 cup (cooked separately and added at the end)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

  • Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with water or chicken stock.
  • Add a pinch of salt and the bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer and skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
  • Simmer for about 30–40 minutes (whole chicken) or 20–25 minutes (chicken pieces) until fully cooked.

2. Remove and Shred Chicken:

  • Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly.
  • Shred the meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Set the meat aside.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:

  • Add the onion, carrots, celery, and any additional vegetables to the pot.
  • Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Season the Broth:

  • Add the minced garlic (if using), thyme, and more salt and pepper to taste.
  • Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

5. Add Starches (Optional):

  • If using noodles, rice, or pasta, cook them separately to prevent overcooking and then add them to the soup right before serving.

6. Serve:

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Variations:

  • Creamy Chicken Soup: Add 1/2 cup of cream or a slurry of cornstarch and milk to thicken.
  • Asian-Inspired Chicken Soup: Add ginger, soy sauce, and bok choy, and serve with rice noodles.
  • Spicy Chicken Soup: Add chili flakes, paprika, or cayenne for heat.

This simple yet flavorful soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Enjoy!

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