What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chicken soup is perfect for cozy nights and soothing sick days alike. You’ll love how simple it is to make such a comforting dish from scratch. First, it’s packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug. Second, it’s easy to customize—toss in your favorite veggies or noodles for a personal touch. And finally, it’s a great way to use up leftovers, making it both practical and delicious.
Recipe
Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade chicken soup, especially during cold weather or when feeling under the weather. This classic recipe is simple, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
- 12 cups water
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup egg noodles (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in a large pot and add water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 1.5 hours or until the chicken is tender and falls off the bone.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat, discarding bones and skin.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add egg noodles (if using) and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, replace water with chicken broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
– Large pot
.idestrainer
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6-8 servings
Nutrition
Chicken soup is not only comforting but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Vitamin A | 500 IU |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chicken soup with fresh bread, like a crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls, to soak up all the delicious broth. A simple side salad, with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, adds an invigorating contrast to the cozy soup. Together, they make the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Fresh Bread Pairings
A few warm slices of crusty bread can turn a simple bowl of chicken soup into a satisfying meal. I love serving a freshly baked baguette, tearing it apart and dipping it into the broth for that perfect blend of textures. A slice of sourdough, toasted just enough to be crispy on the edges, adds a tangy depth that complements the soup’s flavors. For something heartier, I’ll go with a soft, buttery dinner roll or a rustic multigrain loaf. Each bite feels cozy and complete, especially when the bread soaks up the savory goodness of the soup. It’s pure comfort food.
Side Salad Options
Why not add a crisp, invigorating side salad to balance the heartiness of homemade chicken soup? A simple garden salad with lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, tossed in a light vinaigrette, is my go-to. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll throw in some avocado or crumbled feta for extra flavor. A tangy coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots also pairs perfectly, adding a nice crunch. For something heartier, try a quinoa salad with roasted veggies. Each bite complements the soup’s warmth, making the meal feel complete. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
