Have you ever craved a soup that’s both comforting and loaded with fresh flavors? Well, Chicken Dill Soup might be just what you need! This dish effortlessly combines the heartiness of tender chicken with the zesty, herbaceous goodness of dill. The result is a delightful, aromatic bowl of warmth that’s perfect for any time of the year, but especially great for those chilly days when you want something light yet filling.
Chicken Dill Soup is an incredibly versatile dish – it can be light and fresh for a spring meal or hearty enough for a wintery evening. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this soup is simple enough to make without sacrificing flavor. It’s also a fantastic way to get your daily dose of vegetables and lean protein in a way that feels indulgent but is still very wholesome.
Chicken Dill Soup Recipe
So, if you’re wondering how to make this delicious Chicken Dill Soup, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down, step by step, so that you can easily follow along.
Ingredients Needed
Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. These are basic pantry staples, plus a few fresh additions that give this soup its signature flavor.
- Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) – 1 lb. (or more depending on serving size)
- Chicken broth – 4 cups (you can use homemade or store-bought)
- Carrots – 2 medium, sliced thinly
- Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
- Onion – 1 medium, diced
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Dill – 2 tablespoons of fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon of dried)
- Potatoes – 2 medium, diced (optional for a heartier version)
- Heavy cream or whole milk – ½ cup (for added richness)
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon (to brighten up the flavor)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
Cooking Instructions
Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Here’s a simple, straightforward guide to making this Chicken Dill Soup:
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Prepare The Chicken
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breast and sear it for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. You’re not cooking it through just yet, but you want that nice, rich color. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pot, toss in the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become aromatic. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute. You should be getting a good whiff of all those fresh veggies by now!
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Add The Broth And Potatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. If you’re adding potatoes, toss them in now. Allow the soup to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
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Shred The Chicken
- While the soup is simmering, take the cooked chicken breast and shred it with two forks. If you want the chicken to be in larger chunks, feel free to break it up accordingly.
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Combine The Chicken With The Soup
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with the fresh dill. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Finish The Soup
- Pour in the heavy cream or milk and stir to combine. This will make the soup creamy and comforting without making it too rich. Taste the soup, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. Add the lemon juice for that touch of brightness.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a bit more fresh dill if you’re feeling fancy, and serve hot. Pair it with some warm crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role each ingredient plays in a dish can elevate your cooking, and Chicken Dill Soup is no exception. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Chicken breast: Lean and versatile, chicken is the star of the show in this soup. It’s a great source of protein and gives the soup a savory base.
- Dill: This herb is the true flavor hero of this soup. Its slightly tangy, anise-like notes add a unique twist to the flavor profile, making the soup feel fresh and aromatic.
- Carrots and celery: These vegetables not only add depth to the soup’s flavor, but they also bring a lovely crunch and slight sweetness that balances out the savory chicken and broth.
- Potatoes (optional): For those who prefer a heartier soup, potatoes help thicken the broth and create a satisfying texture. They’re a perfect sponge for the flavors in the soup.
- Heavy cream or milk: A bit of dairy adds richness and creaminess, making the soup feel luxurious while maintaining a lightness that doesn’t overwhelm the other flavors.
Expert Tips
- For extra flavor depth: Don’t skip the step of searing the chicken before adding it to the soup. This caramelizes the outside of the chicken, making it more flavorful and enhancing the overall soup.
- For a smoother texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup (including some potatoes) with an immersion blender. Just be careful not to overdo it if you like a bit of texture.
- Herb substitution: If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, dried dill works well, though fresh is always best. Alternatively, you can try other fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if you want to experiment.
- Freezing tip: This soup freezes really well! Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of extra broth if it thickens too much.
Recipe Variations
Chicken Dill Soup is pretty flexible, so feel free to customize it based on what you have available or your dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations:
- Add greens: Stir in some spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients and color.
- Use other proteins: Instead of chicken breast, try shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a different twist. If you’re vegetarian, you can use tofu or tempeh in place of the chicken.
- Add noodles or rice: For an even heartier version, toss in some cooked egg noodles, rice, or quinoa. Just make sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or even a bit of chili paste to the soup.
Final Words
Chicken Dill Soup is one of those dishes that can instantly bring comfort and a smile to your face. It’s warm, savory, and has just enough brightness from the dill to keep things interesting. Plus, it’s relatively easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.