Chicken soup has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening, recovering from a cold, or simply craving something comforting, there’s something magical about a hot bowl of chicken soup. It brings warmth not just to the body, but also to the soul. The beauty of chicken soup lies in its versatility, simplicity, and depth of flavor, all of which come together in one dish. From the first spoonful, it’s hard to beat the nourishing feeling that follows.
What makes homemade chicken soup even more special is that you get to control the flavors, ingredients, and textures. You can opt for a rich, hearty broth, or a light, fragrant one. The beauty of making it at home is that you get to customize it to your liking and ensure that every ingredient is fresh and high-quality. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to make the perfect homemade chicken soup.
Chicken Soup Homemade Recipe
This chicken soup homemade recipe is the one you can return to again and again. It’s a classic version that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, and it makes a perfect meal to freeze for later. Packed with tender chicken, veggies, and herbs, this soup can be as light or as hearty as you wish. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition, and it’s suitable for just about any occasion.
Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients Needed
For a basic, delicious homemade chicken soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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Chicken
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken (like a whole chicken or chicken thighs) for more flavor.
- Or you can opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
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Vegetables
- Carrots (2-3 medium-sized, peeled and chopped)
- Celery (2-3 stalks, chopped)
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
- Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced)
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Herbs & Spices
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
- Bay leaves (2-3)
- Parsley (fresh, chopped, for garnish)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (freshly cracked, to taste)
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
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Broth
- Chicken stock (around 6 cups, homemade or store-bought)
- Water (if you prefer a lighter broth or want to adjust the flavor)
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Additional
- Egg noodles or any pasta (optional but a great addition)
- Lemon juice (a dash to brighten the flavors)
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get to the cooking! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to preparing your homemade chicken soup:
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Prepare The Chicken
- If you’re using whole chicken or bone-in chicken parts, place them in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the chicken (about 6-8 cups).
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
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Cook The Vegetables
- While your chicken is simmering, heat a separate pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Add The Broth And Herbs
- Once your chicken has finished simmering, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Strain the broth to remove any impurities, then return the clear broth to the pot.
- Add your sautéed vegetables, bay leaves, and thyme to the broth. Let it simmer on low heat for another 20-30 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
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Shred The Chicken
- Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
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Add Pasta (Optional)
- If you’re using egg noodles or any other pasta, now is the time to add them. Let them cook in the broth until tender, about 7-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.
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Season & Serve
- Taste your soup and add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little zing, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Once everything is well-seasoned and cooked through, remove the bay leaves and thyme stems.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
When it comes to making homemade chicken soup, the ingredients are key to its success. Here’s a deeper look at why these specific ingredients matter:
- Chicken: Using bone-in chicken, like thighs or a whole chicken, adds more flavor to the broth. The bones release collagen as they cook, which helps create a rich, silky texture. If you’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you’re opting for a leaner, milder flavor but still getting plenty of protein.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion (also known as the ’holy trinity’ of soups) are essential in creating the base flavor of your broth. These vegetables provide natural sweetness, earthiness, and depth to the soup.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaves infuse the broth with fragrant, savory flavors. Garlic adds a layer of richness, while a bit of black pepper gives the soup a subtle kick. Fresh parsley is used as a garnish to add freshness and a pop of color.
- Broth: Homemade chicken broth is always the best option, as it’s packed with rich, deep flavors. Store-bought broth can be used in a pinch, but be sure to choose one with minimal additives and sodium.
- Pasta: Adding pasta is optional, but it makes the soup more filling and satisfying. Egg noodles are a traditional choice, but feel free to use any pasta shape you like.
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor: Roast your chicken in the oven before adding it to the soup. This adds a lovely caramelized flavor that will deepen the overall taste of the broth.
- For extra depth: Use chicken feet or necks in your broth for even more collagen and richness. Don’t worry-they’re mostly used for the flavor and get strained out later.
- To speed up the process: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked, so all you need to do is make the broth and toss in the chicken at the end. This is perfect for a quick, weeknight version of chicken soup.
- To make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half for a creamy, velvety texture. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving.
Recipe Variations
Chicken soup is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients or styles. Here are some variations you might want to try:
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to give your soup a spicy kick. You could also add a can of diced tomatoes for an added flavor boost.
- Chicken and Rice Soup: Swap out the pasta for cooked rice. This will create a more hearty, comforting soup.
- Asian-Inspired Chicken Soup: Add ginger, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil to give your soup an Asian twist. You can also include mushrooms and bok choy for additional flavor and texture.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and rice, and add more vegetables like zucchini noodles, spinach, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb, nutrient-packed option.
- Herb-Infused Chicken Soup: If you prefer a fresh, herby soup, you can increase the amount of fresh basil, dill, or rosemary. These herbs will add an aromatic quality that’s perfect for spring or summer.
Final Words
Chicken soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting ritual, an act of care. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply seeking warmth, this homemade recipe is designed to bring you comfort in every spoonful. And with the ability to make it your own, you can tailor it to your taste, dietary needs, or seasonal preferences.