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Chicken Soup Recipe

Chicken Soup Recipe for Cold Days

When the temperature drops and you need something warm, soothing, and nourishing, this comforting chicken soup recipe delivers exactly what you’re craving. You get a rich, homemade broth, tender chicken, and vegetables that come together beautifully in one cozy bowl.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 Serving
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
For the Protein & Broth
  • 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken (breast or thighs)
  • 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup water
For Flavor & Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup egg noodles or rice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ lemon Juice (optional for brightness)

Method
 

  1. Heat oil and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. Add chicken, broth, and water, ensuring chicken is submerged.
  3. Season and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes.
  4. Remove and shred chicken, then return to pot.
  5. Add noodles or rice and cook until tender.
  6. Finish with parsley and lemon juice, then adjust seasoning.

Notes

  • Allow vegetables to soften properly before adding liquid so your soup develops a deeper and more balanced flavor profile.
  • Maintain a gentle simmer instead of boiling to keep the chicken tender and the broth clear and clean.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at the end because flavors concentrate as the soup cooks, which can change the balance.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end rather than early in cooking so they retain their brightness and enhance the overall dish.