This chicken soup started as a way to clear out the fridge and ended up becoming a weekly ritual. It’s the kind of recipe that evolves, shaped by what’s in season and what’s lingering in the pantry. I love how a simple pot of broth can turn into a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Why this soup keeps calling me back
It’s the way the aroma fills the kitchen—comforting, familiar, and alive. Making it reminds me that good things come from simple ingredients and patience. Each bowl feels like a small victory, a warm reminder that sometimes, the best meals are the ones that take time and care.
Deep dive: ingredients that make this soup special
- Whole chicken or chicken parts:: Brings a rich, gelatinous broth. Use organic or free-range if you can.
- Carrots and celery:: Add sweetness and depth; their aroma is the backbone of flavor.
- Onion and garlic:: Fundamental aromatics; smell should be sweet and inviting.
- Fresh herbs:: Parsley and thyme lift the broth; fresh is best for zing.
- Lemon:: A splash brightens everything, like a quick flash of sunshine.
- Salt and pepper:: Simple seasonings that elevate the natural flavors.
- Optional noodles or rice:: Add carbs if you want a heartier bowl; cook separately to keep broth clear.
Tools of the trade for a soulful chicken soup
- Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even heat distribution for gentle simmering.
- Slotted spoon: Skims foam and removes cooked chicken pieces easily.
- Fine sieve: Strains broth clear of solids for a pristine finish.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: Prepares vegetables and chicken with precision.
Step-by-step: Crafting the perfect chicken broth from scratch
Step 1: Start by gathering your ingredients and equipment. Use a heavy-bottomed pot for even heat.
Step 2: Bring the chicken to a gentle simmer in cold water, skimming off foam for clarity.
Step 3: Add vegetables and herbs, simmer gently for about 1.5 hours, until the chicken is falling apart.
Step 4: Remove chicken, strain broth, then shred the meat, discarding skin and bones.
Step 5: Return shredded chicken to broth, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for another 15 minutes.
Step 6: Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a handful of fresh parsley for brightness.
Cooking checkpoints and tips for best results
- Keep the broth at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to keep it clear and tender.
- Skim off foam regularly to keep the broth pristine and flavorful.
- Check the chicken’s doneness by pulling apart a piece; it should shred easily.
- Taste and adjust salt at the end to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering.
Common pitfalls and how to bounce back
- Not skimming foam during simmering.? Skim foam continuously for clarity, or broth becomes cloudy.
- Boiling vigorously.? Use gentle heat, too high and the broth becomes greasy.
- Over-salting early.? Taste and adjust seasoning before serving to avoid blandness.
- Leaving chicken in large pieces.? Don’t forget to shred chicken finely; chunky pieces can be tough.
Hearty Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the whole chicken or chicken parts into a large heavy-bottomed pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface, until the broth becomes clear, about 30 minutes.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and fresh herbs to the pot. Continue simmering gently, maintaining just a gentle bubble, for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and falling apart, and the broth is flavorful.
- Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the cooked chicken from the broth and set aside. Strain the broth through a fine sieve into another pot or bowl to remove the solids, resulting in a clear, aromatic broth.
- Once strained, shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the clear broth and reheat gently.
- Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as desired. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir in chopped parsley for brightness and freshness.
- If desired, cook noodles or rice separately according to package instructions and add them to individual bowls before ladling the hot soup over, or serve as is for a light, nourishing broth.
- Ladle the hot, fragrant chicken soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has tender shredded chicken, clear broth, and a splash of lemon. Enjoy this comforting dish with crusty bread or on its own for a cozy, satisfying meal.
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