Easy Chicken Soup Recipe: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken soup. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving comfort food, this easy chicken soup recipe will hit the spot. Made with fresh ingredients, it’s packed with flavor, nutrition, and all the goodness you need. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare!
Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to making the perfect homemade chicken soup.
Ingredients for Chicken Soup
Main Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (or 4 boneless chicken thighs/breasts)
- 6 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon cubes)
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried)
- 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- Lemon juice for a fresh kick
- Red pepper flakes for a bit of spice
- Mushrooms for extra texture
- Corn or peas for a touch of sweetness
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary kitchen tools:
Essential Equipment:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Helpful Tools:
- A strainer for clear broth
- Slow cooker (if using an alternative cooking method)
How to Make Easy Chicken Soup – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables.
- Peel and dice the carrots into small pieces for even cooking.
- Chop the celery into bite-sized slices.
- Dice the onion finely so it blends well into the soup.
- Mince the garlic to release its strong aroma and flavor.
For the chicken:
- If using a whole chicken, remove excess fat and rinse it under cold water.
- If using boneless chicken, cut it into large chunks to cook evenly.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
- In a large pot, add the chicken and cover it with broth or water.
- Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat and skim off any foam that rises.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken cook for about 25–30 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside to cool before shredding.
For extra flavor, you can sauté the onions, garlic, and celery in a little butter before adding the broth.
Step 3: Adding Vegetables and Seasonings
Once the chicken is removed:
- Add carrots, celery, and onions to the pot.
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf, and parsley.
- Let the vegetables cook for 10–15 minutes to soften.
- Stir occasionally to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Simmering to Perfection
After the vegetables have softened:
- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Pour in additional broth or water if needed.
- Bring everything to a gentle simmer for another 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Shredding the Chicken and Final Touches
Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, it’s time to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
How to Shred Chicken Properly:
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart into thin strips.
- If you prefer, you can chop the chicken into small cubes for a chunkier texture.
- Remove any bones if you used a whole chicken.
After shredding:
- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- If using noodles or rice, add them at this stage and let them cook according to package instructions.
- Simmer for another 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
For extra richness, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of butter before serving.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying Your Chicken Soup
Your chicken soup is now ready to be served!
Best Ways to Serve:
- Hot and fresh in a bowl, garnished with fresh parsley.
- With crusty bread or crackers for added texture.
- Alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
For an extra touch, squeeze some lemon juice on top to enhance the flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Soup
- Use bone-in chicken for richer broth.
- Don’t overcook the noodles – they can get mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Make it ahead – soup tastes even better the next day!
- For a clear broth, strain out any foam or excess fat.
Variations of Chicken Soup
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use egg noodles instead of rice.
- Add extra carrots and celery for a more traditional taste.
Creamy Chicken Soup
- Stir in heavy cream or milk for a creamy texture.
- Blend part of the soup for a thicker consistency.
Spicy Chicken Soup
- Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- A splash of hot sauce can elevate the spice level.
Slow Cooker Chicken Soup
- Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- Shred the chicken at the end for the best texture.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Soup
Storing in the Refrigerator:
- Allow the soup to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing for Later:
- Use freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags.
- Store for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- If using a microwave, heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Health Benefits of Chicken Soup
- Boosts immunity – great for colds and flu.
- Hydrating and nutritious – packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to digest – gentle on the stomach.
- Provides protein – helps in muscle recovery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken – it can become too tough.
- Adding too much salt at the start – always season gradually.
- Not skimming the broth – can make the soup cloudy.
- Cooking noodles too early – add them at the end to prevent sogginess.
FAQs about Easy Chicken Soup Recipe
1. What ingredients do I need for a basic chicken soup?
For a basic chicken soup, you’ll need chicken (either whole or parts), carrots, celery, onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and water or chicken broth. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
2. How long does it take to cook chicken soup?
Cooking time varies depending on whether you’re using a whole chicken or parts. Typically, chicken soup takes about 1-2 hours to cook on the stovetop. If you’re using a slow cooker, it can take 4-6 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low.
3. Can I make chicken soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make chicken soup in an Instant Pot. It usually takes about 30 minutes on the high-pressure setting, plus the time for the pot to come to pressure and release naturally.
4. Is chicken soup healthy?
Chicken soup is often considered healthy as it’s hydrating, nourishing, and contains vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and chicken. It’s also comforting when you’re feeling under the weather.
5. How can I thicken my chicken soup?
To thicken chicken soup, you can either blend some of the vegetables and return them to the pot, or create a slurry with cornstarch and water and stir it into the soup until thickened.
6. What can I serve with chicken soup?
Chicken soup can be served with a variety of side dishes such as bread, rolls, crackers, or a simple green salad. It’s also great with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
7. Can I freeze chicken soup?
Yes, chicken soup freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
8. What are some common variations of chicken soup?
Common variations include adding noodles or rice, incorporating different vegetables like corn or potatoes, or using spices like ginger or turmeric to add a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Making homemade chicken soup is easier than you think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather, this recipe is guaranteed to bring comfort and satisfaction.
So, why not try it today? Your kitchen will be filled with the delicious aroma of homemade goodness!
