Soup Recipes

Chicken Hot Soup Recipe

There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of chicken hot soup to lift your spirits, especially when the weather is chilly or when you’re feeling under the weather. This classic comfort food offers not only warmth but also a hearty dose of nutrition, flavors, and texture all in one dish. Whether you’re planning to enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a side, chicken hot soup is versatile and beloved for its soul-soothing qualities. What makes it even better is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare at home, using simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.

Chicken soup has long been associated with home remedies and good health. The warm broth and protein-packed chicken help to hydrate, energize, and calm the stomach, making it a go-to for both physical and emotional nourishment. Whether you’re craving something cozy after a long day, or you need a meal that’s easy on the stomach when you’re feeling a bit off, this chicken hot soup recipe is the perfect answer.

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Chicken Hot Soup Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the actual recipe. While chicken hot soup might seem simple, the key is in balancing flavors and textures-rich, aromatic broth, tender chicken, and a selection of veggies that bring everything together.

Ingredients Needed

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 whole chicken breast (or thighs, boneless and skinless)
  • 6 cups chicken broth (you can use store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup egg noodles (optional, for added texture)
  • Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley for garnish)
  • Juice of ½ lemon (optional for a zesty finish)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: Before jumping into the cooking process, make sure all your ingredients are ready. Chop the onions, carrots, and celery; mince the garlic; and have your chicken breast at hand. If you’re using a whole chicken, you’ll want to cut it into manageable pieces.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their natural sweetness. This step creates the foundation of flavor for your soup.
  3. Add the chicken and broth: Once the vegetables are tender, add the chicken breast (or thigh pieces) and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  4. Season and simmer: Stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while cooking the chicken through.
  5. Shred the chicken: After simmering, remove the chicken breast (or thighs) from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
  6. Add noodles (if desired): If you like a bit of heartiness in your soup, throw in some egg noodles. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes or until tender.
  7. Final touches: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. If you want a bit of zing, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra layer of freshness.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down some of the key ingredients to understand why they are essential in this chicken hot soup recipe:

  • Chicken Breast: This lean meat is full of protein and cooks quickly, providing a tender texture once shredded. It’s also a mild, neutral base that soaks up the broth’s flavors well. You could also use thighs for a richer, juicier result.
  • Chicken Broth: The broth serves as the soup’s backbone. It’s where all the flavors meld together. You can make your own broth from scratch, or if you’re short on time, store-bought broth will work just fine. Homemade broth, however, brings a depth of flavor that elevates the soup to a whole new level.
  • Carrots and Celery: These vegetables are often referred to as the “holy trinity” of soups because they create a balanced, aromatic base. Carrots add sweetness and color, while celery gives the soup a subtle crunch and earthiness. Together, they add a layer of complexity to the broth.
  • Herbs: Thyme and parsley are both earthy and fresh, respectively. Thyme adds warmth and earthiness, while parsley provides a bright note. Bay leaves bring a subtle depth of flavor that’s impossible to pinpoint but essential to the soup’s overall complexity.
  • Egg Noodles: Optional, but they’re a great addition for texture. Soft, chewy, and comforting, egg noodles soak up the broth, making each bite satisfying and filling.

Expert Tips

  • Use homemade broth if possible: If you have time to make your own chicken broth, it’ll elevate the soup exponentially. Homemade broth tends to have a richer, more complex flavor profile.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooking chicken can result in dry, rubbery meat. Shred it right after it’s cooked through to preserve its tenderness.
  • Season incrementally: Always taste your soup as it simmers. It’s important to adjust seasoning along the way. Sometimes, a little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.
  • Make it ahead: Like many soups, chicken hot soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to blend. Make it in advance for a flavorful meal ready to go when you need it.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add color. Parsley, dill, or even a little bit of basil can complement the flavors nicely.

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy Chicken Soup: If you love a bit of heat, you can add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. A dash of hot sauce will also elevate the spice level without overpowering the broth’s delicate flavors.
  • Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take, swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or squash. You could even add tofu for protein.
  • Asian-Inspired Soup: If you’re craving an Asian twist, you could use soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for flavoring. Add in some bok choy or spinach for greens and top with sesame seeds or chili oil for extra flair.
  • Low-Carb or Keto: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, leave out the noodles and use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a substitute.
  • Herbed Butter: For a richer, more decadent flavor, add a dollop of herb-infused butter to the soup just before serving.

Final Words

Chicken hot soup is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort, warmth, and satisfaction. With a simple set of ingredients and just a little time, you can make a soup that will nourish both the body and the soul. Whether you’re making it for yourself after a long day or serving it to loved ones, there’s something about the way it fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma that just feels like home.

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