This warm chicken soup is the ultimate comfort dish! Packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and delicious broth, it’s perfect for cozy evenings.
I like to enjoy it with some crunchy bread on the side. It’s the kind of soup that hugs you from the inside out—who wouldn’t want that? 😊
Making this soup is super easy! Just toss everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of happiness. Perfect for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: For a hearty broth, opt for bone-in chicken. The bones add richness. If you prefer boneless, that works too! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for quick meals.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought is convenient. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use water with added herbs. Broth alternatives like vegetable stock also fit in easily!
Vegetables: Carrots and celery are classic, but feel free to add peas, green beans, or even potatoes. If you have leftover veggies, toss them in! This soup is fantastic for using up what you have.
Herbs: Dried thyme gives a warm flavor, but fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten it up. If you can’t find thyme, use rosemary or Italian seasoning for a different twist.
How Do I Make My Chicken Soup Extra Flavorful?
The key to a flavorful chicken soup is building layers of taste. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery. This mix, known as soffritto, creates a tasty base. Don’t rush this step, as it enhances the overall flavor.
- Cook the vegetables until soft and slightly caramelized, around 5 minutes.
- Always use fresh garlic. Sauté just until fragrant to prevent bitterness.
- Simmer the soup long enough for the flavors to meld. Patience pays off here!
Add seasonings gradually and taste as you go. This way, you find the balance of flavors that you love. Enjoy making your perfect chicken soup!
Classic Chicken Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 whole chicken breast (bone-in or boneless), about 8 oz
- 6 cups chicken broth or water
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Crackers or bread for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting chicken soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying it in about 40 minutes total. It’s a quick way to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add Garlic and Broth:
Once the veggies are soft, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it’s aromatic. Now, pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken breast, dried thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
After the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the soup.
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the delicious soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme if you like. Serve it hot with some crunchy crackers or warm bread on the side, and enjoy every delightful spoonful!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of classic chicken soup!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it towards the end of cooking to warm it through and mix with the broth.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, water with a bouillon cube or even vegetable broth will work well, giving you a lighter option. Just be sure to taste and adjust seasoning accordingly!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until it’s heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to thin it out, as it might thicken while stored.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to toss in frozen peas, green beans, or even potatoes—just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re tender by the time the soup is done!
