Chicken Soup Recipe: A Comfort in a Bowl!

Chicken soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and loved by the whole family. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this chicken soup recipe will delight you. Ready to dive into making this comforting treat? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for 4 people
For the soup:
- 500 g of chicken (thighs or breast)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1.5 liters of chicken broth (homemade or cubed)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100 g of noodles (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation of Chicken Soup
Sauté the vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the garlic and chicken:
Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the chicken to the pot, browning it slightly on both sides.
Incorporate the broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Shred the chicken:
Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, and then shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add the noodles:
If you want to add noodles, incorporate them into the soup and let it cook for another 10 minutes until tender.
Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Chicken Soup Recipe
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, it’s a great way to use leftover roasted chicken. Add it to the soup at the end of cooking to warm it up.
Can I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in a bit of water or reduce the broth by simmering it longer.
What vegetables can I add?
You can customize your soup by adding vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes.
How do I store the soup?
Store the chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can the soup be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. The flavors will develop even more if you let it rest in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Soup Recipe
- Homemade broth: Make your own chicken broth for an even richer taste. Use chicken carcasses and simmer them with vegetables for flavorful broth.
- Fresh herbs: Add fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for an extra aroma.
- Variety of toppings: Offer toppings like croutons, grated parmesan, or lemon to personalize each bowl of soup.
Conclusion
Chicken soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious chicken soup that will delight your whole family. So don’t hesitate and get started on making this culinary classic!