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!