There’s something incredibly comforting about a hot bowl of chicken soup when you’re under the weather or just craving a cozy meal. Chicken soup has a reputation for being a go-to comfort food, especially during the colder months. Its rich, savory broth, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs and vegetables make it a satisfying dish. But beyond its comfort, chicken soup is known for its nourishing qualities, often believed to have healing powers when you’re sick.
Today, we’re diving into an easy and flavorful chicken soup recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a healthy meal or just want to indulge in some warm, homemade goodness, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s get into the details!
Chicken Soup Cold Recipe
Chicken soup doesn’t just soothe the soul; it can help to clear up a cold too. A hot bowl of this classic dish can clear your sinuses, boost your immunity, and leave you feeling rejuvenated. This cold-busting chicken soup recipe is designed with fresh ingredients that maximize both flavor and health benefits.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s start by gathering everything you need to make this hearty chicken soup. You’ll notice that the ingredients are simple, but each one adds its own distinct flavor and nutritional value. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Thighs Or Breasts)
- You can use either thighs or breasts depending on your preference for tenderness and flavor. Thighs offer a richer taste due to their higher fat content, while breasts are leaner and a bit lighter.
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Carrots (2 Medium-sized)
- Sliced or chopped, carrots bring a natural sweetness to the soup. They’re also packed with beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A, great for immune health.
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Celery (2 Stalks)
- Celery adds a crisp, fresh crunch and a subtle earthy flavor. It’s loaded with antioxidants and helps to keep the soup light.
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Onion (1 Medium-sized)
- Onions not only bring depth of flavor, but their natural compounds also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
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Garlic (4 Cloves)
- Garlic is a powerhouse in the fight against cold symptoms. It helps boost your immune system and adds a fragrant, savory note to the broth.
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Chicken Broth (6 Cups)
- A rich chicken broth is the base for this soup. It provides the essential savory foundation that makes the soup so comforting.
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Bay Leaves (2)
- Bay leaves add a subtle earthy and herbal flavor to the soup, which enhances the richness of the broth.
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Fresh Thyme (1 Tablespoon, Or 1 Teaspoon Dried)
- Thyme is a perfect herb to pair with chicken. It has antiseptic properties, and its aromatic oils help to uplift the flavors of the soup.
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Lemon Juice (1 Tablespoon)
- A splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking helps balance the rich flavors, adding a bright, tangy finish.
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Salt And Pepper (to Taste)
- You’ll want to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, but don’t go too heavy-handed – you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out.
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Parsley (for Garnish)
- Fresh parsley gives a pop of color and freshness that balances the soup’s flavors.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s get to the fun part – cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your chicken soup from scratch:
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Prepare The Ingredients
- Begin by chopping the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. You don’t need to be overly precise here, as everything will cook down to a soft texture.
- If you’re using fresh thyme, strip the leaves off the stems; if dried, just measure it out.
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Cook The Chicken
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken (whole or cut into chunks) and season with salt and pepper.
- Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through at this point; it will finish cooking in the broth.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften and the onions turn translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Simmer The Soup
- Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Shred The Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot.
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Final Touches
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs (if using fresh thyme).
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Ingredient Insights
- Chicken: The choice of chicken affects the final flavor. Bone-in, skin-on chicken would give a more robust broth, while boneless skinless chicken is quicker and easier. Either way, chicken is a rich source of protein, which is key to helping your body recover when sick.
- Carrots and Celery: These two vegetables are staples in many soups, and for good reason. Carrots add sweetness and color, while celery provides a gentle crunch. Both are high in vitamins and antioxidants, boosting overall health and vitality.
- Garlic: Beyond flavor, garlic is well known for its medicinal properties, including its ability to fight bacteria and viruses. It’s a great natural remedy for colds and congestion.
- Thyme: This herb is more than just a flavoring; it’s packed with essential oils that support the immune system and help fight off sickness. It also gives the soup a fragrant, earthy aroma.
- Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice brightens up the flavor profile and offers a dose of vitamin C, a powerful immune system booster.
Expert Tips
- Stock vs. Broth: If you want a richer, more flavorful base, you can use stock instead of broth. Stock has a deeper flavor because it’s made with bones, which provide additional collagen and minerals.
- Chicken Prep: For extra flavor, consider roasting the chicken beforehand, or use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut without sacrificing taste. This can add a smoky depth to your soup.
- Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the veggies. Adding parsnips, leeks, or even sweet potatoes can give the soup a different twist.
- Make Ahead: Chicken soup actually tastes better the next day. It allows the flavors to meld together even more, so you can easily prepare it in advance.
Recipe Variations
- Noodle Chicken Soup: Add some egg noodles or rice to the soup for a heartier meal. Just add them when the soup is close to done, so they don’t get mushy.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: For those who like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.
- Herb-Infused Chicken Soup: If you’re a fan of herbs, you could add rosemary, sage, or oregano. These flavors will pair wonderfully with the savory chicken broth.
- Creamy Chicken Soup: If you’re craving a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for richness, giving it a velvety texture.
Final Words
This chicken soup recipe isn’t just a meal – it’s a therapeutic experience. With each spoonful, you’ll enjoy the comforting warmth, fresh ingredients, and the health benefits that come with the goodness of homemade soup. It’s one of those recipes that’ll always hit the spot, whether you’re trying to fight off a cold or simply savoring something comforting after a long day.