Simple Chicken Soup Recipe

Soup lovers will be thrilled by this simple chicken soup recipe that brings comfort to your table! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can prepare a hearty bowl of chicken soup in less than an hour. This dish is perfect for a chilly evening or when you're feeling under the weather. It not only provides a delightful taste but also offers health benefits, making it one of the most sought-after comfort foods. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting Chicken Soup!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of chicken breasts or thighs - 4 pieces
• 1 large onion – chopped
• 3 carrots – peeled and sliced
• 2 ribs celery – sliced
• 1 clove garlic - minced
• 6 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of diced potatoes
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing (optional)
• Chives or dill as a garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps

To begin your chicken soup, first prepare the chicken. If you’re using whole chicken pieces, remove the skin and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Heat a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil if desired (to avoid sticking), then sauté the onions until they become translucent. Next, toss in the celery and carrots, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables soften slightly.

Add the minced garlic to the pot; cook it for another minute without burning. Then stir in the diced potatoes and chicken pieces into the mixture, allowing them to brown lightly on all sides. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that you cover all ingredients sufficiently with liquid.

Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat down to low and simmering gently. Cover the pot partially to help keep the heat steady during cooking. Simmer for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked through – ensuring it has no pink color inside when done.

Afterward, add the carrots back into the soup along with any remaining broth if needed so that everything is well integrated. Once all ingredients reach optimal texture and flavor, remove from heat source carefully and stir in fresh parsley for added freshness. Taste again; adjust seasonings like salt or pepper as necessary before serving.

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p>Optional garnishes could include chopped chives or dill on top of each bowlful to enhance the overall presentation while adding extra layers of taste.

Cooking Time & Serving Size

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-60 minutes
Serving size: Makes approximately 8 servings (depending on portion sizes)

Tips for Success

• To make the soup more flavorful, consider adding a bay leaf during simmering.
• For extra creaminess, blend half of your cooked vegetables right before serving and mix back into the pot. Alternatively, you can add heavy whipping cream or half-and-half at the very end for an even richer texture.
• If you prefer milder flavors, choose boneless chicken breasts; otherwise, use dark meat for more robust flavor profiles.

Chicken soup is beloved worldwide because it combines simplicity with nutritional value. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals while providing protein from the chicken without being overly heavy or filling. This recipe can easily become a staple in your household as you adjust to varying tastes, preferences, and dietary restrictions over time.

Feel free to experiment by adding different vegetables such as green beans or turnips, or perhaps even herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique twists on the classic broth. Enjoy this delicious homemade chicken soup with family and friends!