basic chicken soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
basic chicken soup recipe
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The Best basic chicken soup recipe

I’m so glad you’re here to learn about one of my favorite recipes – basic chicken soup. This is a staple in our household, and I make it at least once a week. It’s easy to make, and everyone loves it.

My kids ask for it when they’re feeling under the weather, and it’s a great way to get some extra veggies into them without them even realizing it. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and I’ve tweaked it to perfection. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and not overcook the chicken or vegetables.

This recipe is a classic for a reason – it’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even when we’re just having a cozy night in. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

The best part is that you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. My kids love it when I add noodles or rice, but my husband prefers it with just the veggies and broth. Either way, it’s a win-win.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m excited to share it with you. So grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Basic Chicken Soup

Basic Chicken Soup

4.9 from 1384 votes

A comforting classic, this basic chicken soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. Made with tender chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a nourishing meal for the whole family.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breasts
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and onions become translucent.
4Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5Add chicken breasts to the pot, followed by chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
6Stir well to combine.
7Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
8Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
9Check the chicken for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; it should be white throughout with clear juices.
10Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
11Shred the cooled chicken using two forks.
12Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
13Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
14Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use a whole chicken and adjust the cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.

Watch Video Of How Basic Chicken Soup Works

This basic chicken soup recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting meal after a long day.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

We love serving this with some crusty bread or over egg noodles for an added treat.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Chicken Soup

Q1: What is the history behind chicken soup?

Chicken soup has its roots in ancient civilizations where people believed that chicken broth had healing properties. In fact, ancient Greeks and Romans used chicken broth as a form of medicine for ailments like indigestion and fever.

Q2: Can I use store-bought broth instead of making my own?

While store-bought broth can be convenient, I highly recommend making your own from scratch using high-quality ingredients like chicken bones and vegetables. The flavor will be far superior, and you’ll avoid any added preservatives or sodium found in commercial broths.

Q3: How do I prevent the soup from becoming too salty?

A great question! To prevent the soup from becoming too salty, be sure to use low-sodium chicken broth or stock as a base. You can also add some acidity with lemon juice or vinegar to balance out the flavors.

Q4: Can I add noodles or rice to the soup for added texture?

Absolutely! Adding noodles or rice will give your soup an extra boost of texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of starch you add.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains chicken broth and meat.

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