There’s nothing quite like the aroma of chicken soup simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with warmth and comfort. The gentle bubbling is like a hug for your soul, and it’s a recipe that never goes out of style. It’s the ultimate cozy dish when the weather turns chilly or when we crave a bit of nostalgia.
Think hearty chicken, fresh veggies, and just the right spices, all coming together in one pot. This version is ready in under an hour, bringing memories of family dinners and warm conversations. It’s like your grandma’s classic, but with a modern twistperfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, it uses pantry staples, making it so easy to whip up any time!
I’ve been crafting my chicken soup recipe since my early days of cooking in 2011. I’ll never forget the first time my daughter took a spoonful and said, “This tastes like home.” The secret? A splash of lemon juice to brighten it up. After years of sharing recipes, this one remains a favoriteit’s all about that comforting flavor and satisfying texture.
Olivia Farnsworth
Irresistible Chicken Soup Easy and Comforting Recipe
This ultimate chicken soup with veggies is a warm and nourishing dish, packed with flavorful poached chicken, carrots, parsnips, celery, leek, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for chilly days, this chicken soup recipe offers a comforting bowl that feels like a homemade healing remedy. Enjoy the refreshing twist of lemon chicken orzo soup vibes in every spoonful of this easy, hearty meal.
Warm the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Add the sliced carrots, parsnips, celery, leek, and diced onion and cook them, stirring often, until they start to soften, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
Mix in the minced garlic along with the salt and pepper, stirring continuously for about one minute until fragrant.
Tuck in the thyme, tarragon, bay leaf, whole chicken breasts, and pour the chicken broth into the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot.
Allow the soup to cook for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through.
Remove the chicken breasts carefully using tongs and place on a cutting board.
Shred the chicken by pulling it apart with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and let it simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes to meld flavors.
Discard the herb sprigs and bay leaf, then stir in the fresh parsley.
Serve the soup garnished with extra parsley and a dash of black pepper to taste.
Notes
If you have a stand mixer, try using it to shred the chicken quickly as a handy shortcut mentioned in the video.
Adding the garlic after the other vegetables preserves its delicate flavor best, although starting with garlic first isn’t a problem.
This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Warm and Cozy: This chicken soup wraps you in comfort, perfect for chilly evenings.
Nostalgic Flavors: It reminds you of home-cooked meals shared around the table, making it a heartwarming dish.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Health-Filled: Packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, carrots, and herbs to nourish your body and soul.
Key Ingredients and Tools
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for poaching and shredding.
Veggies: Carrots, parsnips, celery, and onion add depth of flavor and nutrition.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and tarragon create a fragrant aroma that uplifts your spirits.
Favorite Pot: A Le Creuset Dutch Oven (or any sturdy pot) is my go-to kitchen companion for making soup.
How It Works – Step by Step
Sauté the Veggies: Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the carrots, parsnips, celery, leek, and onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring often. Add in the minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper, and cook for another minute.
Poach the Chicken: Stir in the thyme, tarragon, bay leaf, chicken breasts, and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it all to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken with tongs, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Serve It Up: Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley, and drizzle on a bit of extra black pepper before serving. Enjoy!
Troubleshooting & Tips
Too Salty? Add a splash of water or additional broth to mellow the flavors.
Too Thick? If the soup is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in some extra chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Herb Options: If you don’t have thyme or tarragon, substitute with your favorite herbs like dill or parsley.
Storage Tips
Storage Method
Timeframe
In the Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container.
3-4 days
In the Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
2-3 months
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cozy Dinner: This soup is great for family gatherings or a comforting solo dinner on cooler days.
Your Way: Add lemon juice for a zing or top with croutons for a crunchy finish!
Expert Says
Chicken soup is a classic comfort dish that warms your soul and provides essential nutrients. The slow simmering of chicken extracts amino acids and minerals, creating a nourishing broth that supports hydration and may soothe cold symptoms, making it a go-to remedy for many. Enjoy the benefits of homemade goodness!
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The Heartwarming Recipe for Chicken Soup
After many attempts, I finally perfected my chicken soup, a comforting blend of tender chicken and fragrant herbs. I still remember my first few tries when the broth was bland or too salty. Each simmer taught me the importance of patience and love, making this recipe a cherished favorite during cozy family dinners.
FAQs ( Chicken Soup )
What is the best chicken for soup?
For a rich and flavorful broth, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs and drumsticks. They add depth to this recipe, while chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster, making them useful for lighter soups.
Can I use a rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds wonderful flavor. Just shred the meat and add it to the broth towards the end to heat through without overcooking.
How long should I simmer chicken soup?
Simmering for 30-45 minutes is ideal, allowing flavors to meld and chicken to cook through. If using whole pieces, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes enhances nutrition and flavor. Add heartier veggies early on, and more delicate ones right before serving to maintain texture.
What serves best with chicken soup?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Consider serving with a simple herb garnish or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness!
Conclusion
You’ll love how this chicken soup turns out! With just 30 minutes in the pot, you’ll fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of home. Each spoonful is a warm embrace that nourishes both body and soul.
Feel free to play with flavors; a dash of dill or some hearty potatoes can shake things up! If you have leftovers, simply pop them in the fridgethis soup is just as delightful the next day and will be a cozy treat for your busy week ahead.
I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you grow up with a version of this soup? Share your stories or snap a picture to inspire others. Remember, every bowl you share is a little piece of warmth you’re passing around to those you cherish.
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
