Why Make This Recipe
Homemade chicken soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings a sense of nostalgia. It is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you are feeling under the weather or just want to enjoy a cozy meal, this chicken soup is a perfect choice.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 poached chicken breasts, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add carrots, celery, and green beans, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Soup
Serve your homemade chicken soup hot for the best experience. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with warm bread or crackers. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch and extra flavor.
How to Store Homemade Chicken Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Homemade Chicken Soup
- Use homemade chicken broth for the richest flavor.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should be tender but still have some crunch.
- If you like, add noodles or rice to make the soup heartier.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste.
Variation
You can easily modify this chicken soup recipe. Add other vegetables like corn or spinach, or use different herbs like rosemary or basil for varied flavors. For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of poached chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great alternative. Just shred it and add it to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. How can I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.
Homemade Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 2 pieces poached chicken breasts, shredded You can use rotisserie chicken as a substitute.
- 4 cups chicken broth Homemade broth enhances the flavor.
Vegetables
- 2 pieces carrots, diced
- 2 pieces celery stalks, diced
- 1 pieces onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup peas
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust based on your taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped Adds flavor and a pop of color.
Method
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add carrots, celery, and green beans, cooking for about 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.