the best chicken soup ever
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, you’ve come to the right place! I’m here to share my cozy chicken soup recipe that’s perfect for chilly days, sick days, or even just a regular old Tuesday! With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a flavorful broth, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Grab your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen!
Simple Ingredients for Appetizing Chicken Soup
When I make chicken soup, I wont to fill my bowl with comforting, vibrant flavors that remind me of home. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own soul-warming pot of deliciousness:
- 1 (3 to 4-pound) whole chicken: The star of the show, ensuring your soup is rich and hearty.
- 10 cups water: This will create the base for your flavorful broth; adjust as needed to cover the chicken.
- 3 stalks of celery (with leaves), chopped: Celery adds a splendid crunch and flavor.
- 1 pound baby carrots: their sweetness balances the other savory ingredients beautifully.
- 2 medium onions,chopped: Onions are essential for building that deep,aromatic foundation.
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth: For extra depth of flavor; low-sodium keeps it lighter.
- 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled: They pack a punch of umami that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 packet chicken noodle soup mix: This adds familiar flavor and a comforting touch.
- 5 black peppercorns: Whole peppercorns infuse warmth without overpowering.
- 2 bay leaves: These herbs bring a subtle depth to the soup.
- Pinch of dried thyme: A classic herb that perfectly complements chicken.
- pinch of poultry seasoning: This blend enhances the savory notes of the chicken.
- Pinch of dried basil and parsley: For a lovely herbal finish.
- 1 (8-ounce) package farfalle (bow tie) pasta: Adds a fun texture and makes the soup more filling.
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to a wholesome bowl of chicken soup that warms both the body and the soul.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Chicken Soup
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create a bowl of satisfying chicken soup:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the whole chicken into a large pot and cover it with water. Add the celery leaves for added flavor. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil.
- Simmer the Chicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. the meat should easily come off the bone. When done, carefully remove the chicken and set it aside to cool.
- Strain the Broth: While the chicken cools, strain the cooking liquid into another pot to remove the celery leaves. Return this flavorful broth back to the pot.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Toss in the carrots, onions, and celery stalks into the pot with the broth. pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, and add the crumbled bouillon, and soup mix. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Season the Soup: Add the black peppercorns, bay leaves, thyme, poultry seasoning, basil, and parsley. These herbs will meld beautifully as the soup cooks.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones. Cut or shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and add it back to the pot.
- Simmer and Cook: Let the soup simmer for about 90 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Cook the Pasta: stir in the farfalle pasta and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until they are tender but still firm to the bite.
And there you have it! Your homemade chicken soup is ready to be enjoyed. Each spoonful is filled with warmth and nostalgia, perfect for any day.
Serving Suggestions and Storage for Homemade Chicken Soup
Serving homemade chicken soup is about creating a warm and inviting experience. I love to ladle this comforting dish into bowls and garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra pop of flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light green salad to round out your meal.You can enjoy your chicken soup immediately or let it sit for a while to allow the flavors to develop even more. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings, cozy evenings, or meal prep for busy weeks ahead.
Storing Your Chicken Soup:
- Refrigerating: If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, chicken soup freezes well. I reccommend dividing it into individual portions in freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Heat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.You may want to add a splash of water or broth to revive its consistency.
This chicken soup is not only versatile when it comes to serving and storing but also makes for great leftovers that taste just as good (if not better) the next day.
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect Chicken soup
Every recipe has its quirks,and chicken soup is no exception. Here are some notes and tips to help you navigate any potential hiccups:
- Chicken Variants: While I prefer a whole chicken for rich flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts if that’s what you have. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; boneless pieces cook much faster.
- Flavor Adjustments: If you find the soup to be a bit bland, try adding more seasonings or a splash of soy sauce for added depth. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens everything up too.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to sneak in other vegetables! Potatoes, peas, or green beans can be great additions. Just be mindful of their cooking times so they don’t turn mushy.
- Pasta Cooking Tip: if you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the farfalle pasta separately and adding it to each bowl when serving.This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much broth and losing its texture.
- Thickening the Soup: If your soup is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mixing a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stirring it into the soup as it simmers.
This chicken soup is forgiving and easy to adjust, making it perfect for any home cook. Enjoy experimenting and finding what works best for you!