Chicken Soup
There’s something magical about a bowl of homemade chicken soup — warm, nourishing, and packed with love. Whether you’re under the weather, craving comfort, or just want a hearty homemade meal, this classic dish never disappoints. Let’s dive into how to make the perfect chicken soup — rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to bring smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for a big pot of cozy goodness:
For the broth:
1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs) or 4–5 pieces of chicken thighs/breasts
10 cups of water or chicken stock
2 medium onions, roughly chopped
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
4 garlic cloves, smashed
1 bay leaf
1 tsp black peppercorns
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional additions:
1 cup egg noodles, rice, or potatoes for a heartier soup
A squeeze of lemon for a fresh finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Rinse your chicken under cold water and pat it dry. If using a whole chicken, you can remove extra fat or skin, but leaving some on adds flavor to the broth.
2. Build the Flavor Base
In a large soup pot, add the chicken, water (or stock), onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer Slowly
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 45–60 minutes. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface — this helps keep your broth clear and golden.
4. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and discard bones and skin.
5. Strain and Add Extras
Strain the broth if you prefer a clearer soup. Add back the shredded chicken.
Now’s the time to toss in noodles, rice, or potatoes if you want a more filling version. Cook for another 10–15 minutes until tender.
6. Season and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning — a pinch more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavor beautifully.
Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley or a few fresh herbs.
Tips for the Best Chicken Soup Ever
Roast your chicken first for a deeper, richer flavor.
Add a dash of ginger or turmeric for a natural immune boost.
Use homemade stock if you can — it’s worth the effort!
Make extra! Chicken soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Why We Love It
Chicken soup isn’t just food — it’s comfort in a bowl. It’s the remedy for rainy days, the cure for colds, and the heart of home cooking. Simple ingredients, slow simmering, and a lot of love — that’s all it takes.
So next time you need warmth, happiness, or a little pick-me-up, grab a spoon and savor the goodness of homemade chicken soup.
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