the best chicken soup ever
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup simmering on the stove, don’t you think? I love how the rich flavors mix together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug! Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something hearty for dinner, this homemade chicken soup recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive in!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Soup
to create the perfect chicken soup, you’ll want to gather a straightforward yet satisfying list of ingredients. Each component adds its own unique flavor, making this recipe not only comforting but also remarkably delicious. here’s what you’ll need for a warm bowl of goodness:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) – The star of the dish! Choose a fresh or frozen chicken, but if using frozen, remember to thaw it beforehand.
- 8-10 cups of water – This will be the broth base. Adjust as needed depending on your desired soup consistency.
- 3 stalks of celery (with leaves, chopped) – Adds a refreshing crunch and depth.
- 5 baby carrots (or 1 pound of regular carrots, chopped) – For a touch of natural sweetness.
- 2 onions (chopped) – They provide a fantastic aromatic base.
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) low-sodium chicken broth – Enhances flavor without being overly salty.
- 2 beef bouillon cubes (crumbled) – Adds an extra layer of richness.
- 1 packet chicken noodle soup mix – To give it that classic chicken soup taste.
- 5 black peppercorns – For a subtle spice.
- 2 bay leaves – Infuse the soup with earthy flavor.
- 1 pinch of dried thyme – Offers a lovely herbal note.
- 1 pinch of poultry seasoning – Complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 pinch of dried basil and parsley – for freshness and color.
- 8 ounces of farfalle pasta (or your favorite pasta) – Perfect for a heartier soup.
These ingredients come together to create a nourishing soup that’s perfect for any day, especially when you need a bit of comfort.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Soup
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make a delightful homemade chicken soup that will warm you from the inside out.
- Prep the Chicken: Place the entire chicken into a large stockpot and cover it with water. Add the chopped celery leaves. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 30 to 40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Strain the Broth: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a large bowl. Strain the cooking liquid to remove any vegetables, and return the broth to the pot.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: In the pot with the strained broth, add the carrots, onions, celery stalks, chicken broth, crumbled bouillon cubes, and the soup mix. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Season the Soup: Toss in the black peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme, poultry seasoning, basil, and parsley. Let the flavors meld together for about 10 minutes.
- Shred the Chicken: While your soup simmer, let the chicken cool a bit. Once manageable, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir. Then, mix in the pasta.Allow the soup to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Final Touches: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once everything is combined and heated through,it’s time to serve!
Enjoy this homemade chicken soup with a piece of crusty bread or your favorite crackers. It’s not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!
Serving and Storage Data for Homemade Chicken Soup
Once your delicious chicken soup is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This recipe typically yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. I love serving this soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor.
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so tasty!), you’ll want to store them properly. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s piping hot.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. it’s best to do this before adding the pasta, as cooked pasta can become mushy when frozen.Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, if you’ve frozen the soup without pasta, you can cook fresh pasta separately and add it to the reheated soup for the perfect texture.
Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Soup
As with any recipe, things can sometimes go awry, but don’t worry! Here are some helpful tips and common troubleshooting advice to ensure your chicken soup turns out just right.
- flavor Development: If your soup tastes a bit bland, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings. A sprinkle of salt or a dash of pepper can make a notable difference. I frequently enough add a little lemon juice for brightness right before serving.
- Chicken Quality: Using a fresh whole chicken works best, but if you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute. Just add it at the end to warm through.
- Vegetable Texture: For perfectly tender veggies, avoid overcooking them. Depending on how chunky you chop your ingredients, cooking times may vary.Check for doneness periodically while simmering.
- broth Consistency: if you prefer a thicker broth, you can blend a portion of the soup, then mix it back in to create a creamier texture. For a heartier soup, simply add more vegetables or grains.
- Pasta Preferences: If you decide to change up the pasta, just keep an eye on the cooking time as different types may vary. Quinoa or rice can also be excellent alternatives if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
with these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making an incredible chicken soup that warms the soul. Enjoy your culinary adventure!