Looking for a warm, tasty meal that lifts your spirits? This savory chicken soup recipe is just what you need! Packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful herbs, it’s simple to make and perfect for any day. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables and Seasoning
– 3 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Broth and Optional Ingredients
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup egg noodles (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
To make a great chicken soup, you need the right ingredients. Start with chicken thighs; they are juicy and tender. Olive oil adds flavor and helps cook the onions well. Diced onion and minced garlic give the soup depth and richness.
Next, add sliced carrots and chopped celery for sweetness and crunch. Dried thyme and parsley bring in a lovely herbal note. The low-sodium chicken broth serves as the base. It’s light, yet full of flavor.
Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness. If you want noodles, egg noodles are a great choice. They make the soup hearty. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
With these ingredients, you are ready to create a cozy bowl of chicken soup. For the full recipe, check the Cozy Comfort Chicken Soup section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
First, gather all your ingredients and tools. You will need a large pot for cooking. A heavy-bottom pot works best. It helps to cook evenly without burning.
Next, chop your veggies. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the carrots and chop the celery. Cube the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This makes cooking easier.
Cooking Process
Now, let’s start cooking! Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns soft.
Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until it smells great. This step builds a strong base for your soup.
Next, add the cubed chicken thighs to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken gets a nice brown color on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the chicken is browned, mix in the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes. This adds flavor to the veggies.
Pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together.
Finishing Touches
If you are using egg noodles, add them after 20 minutes. Cook for another 7-10 minutes until they are tender.
Next, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Let them heat through for about 3 minutes. Adjust the taste with more salt and pepper if needed.
Finally, remove the soup from heat. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your cozy chicken soup!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get the best flavor in your chicken soup, start with fresh ingredients. Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor. If you prefer boneless, chicken thighs work well. Cook the chicken until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to the soup.
For the ideal chicken cooking times, simmering is key. Let the soup cook for at least 20 minutes. If you add egg noodles, they need about 7-10 minutes to become tender. Always check that the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
Presentation Tips
For an appealing look, serve your soup in rustic bowls. This adds charm and warmth to your meal. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. You can also add a slice of crusty bread on the side. This makes it easy to dip and enjoy every bite.
Making it Healthier
To make this soup healthier, consider using low-sodium chicken broth. This keeps the flavor while reducing salt. You can substitute vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrients.
If you need a gluten-free option, swap out egg noodles for rice or quinoa. These alternatives keep the soup hearty and filling without gluten. Always feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs.
For the full recipe, check above to create this cozy comfort chicken soup!
Variations
Dietary Variations
If you want a vegetarian chicken soup, you can use mushrooms instead of chicken. Mushrooms add a rich, umami flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a hearty feel, add lentils or beans. They are filling and full of protein.
For gluten-free options, use gluten-free noodles or skip the noodles entirely. Quinoa or rice works well as a substitute. Just remember to adjust cooking times. They may cook faster than noodles.
Flavor Variations
To change the flavor, try adding spices. A dash of cayenne pepper adds heat. You can also use smoked paprika for a smoky taste. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can give a bright flavor.
Incorporating seasonal vegetables can also change your soup. In winter, add root veggies like parsnips or turnips. In summer, use zucchini or fresh corn. This keeps your soup fresh and exciting.
Cooking Method Variations
For a quick meal, use an Instant Pot. Cook the chicken and veggies on high pressure for about 10 minutes. You can skip the browning step. Just add all your ingredients together in the pot.
If you prefer a slow cooker, add all the ingredients in the morning. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method gives a deep flavor, as ingredients meld together. You can enjoy a warm meal when you return home.
Check the [Full Recipe] for more details on whipping up your soup!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftover chicken soup, let it cool first. Pour it into an airtight container. You can use glass or plastic containers. Glass keeps flavors better. Plastic is lighter and easier to carry. Make sure to seal the lid tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it.
Freezing Chicken Soup
For longer storage, freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave a little space at the top. Soup expands when it freezes. Label the bags with the date. This helps you know how long it has been. To reheat from frozen, take it out and place it in the fridge overnight. You can also heat it in a pot over low heat. Stir it often until hot.
Shelf Life
How long does chicken soup last in the fridge? It lasts about four days. In the freezer, it can last up to three months. Check for signs of spoilage. If it smells bad or looks strange, throw it away. Do not taste it to check. Always play it safe with food. Enjoy your cozy chicken soup while it’s fresh! For the full recipe, check out the cozy comfort chicken soup recipe.
FAQs
Common Questions
What is the best chicken for soup?
I recommend using chicken thighs for soup. They have more flavor and stay moist. Bone-in chicken also works well. It gives the broth extra taste. You can use skinless thighs for less fat.
Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes, you can use cooked chicken! Just add it later in the cooking process. This way, you heat it through without overcooking. Shredded chicken is a great option. It blends well with the soup.
Health Benefits of Chicken Soup
Nutritional advantages of chicken soup
Chicken soup holds many health benefits. It is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. The broth helps keep you hydrated. Vegetables add fiber and nutrients. Overall, it is a warm and nourishing meal.
Does chicken soup really help with colds?
Yes, chicken soup can help with colds. The steam from the soup can clear nasal passages. Warm broth soothes a sore throat. Plus, the nutrients can boost your immune system. It’s comfort food for your body when you’re sick.
Troubleshooting Tips
Why is my soup too salty?
If your soup is too salty, add more water or broth. You can also add more vegetables to balance the salt. A potato can absorb some salt. Just simmer the soup longer with the potato inside.
How do I thicken my chicken soup?
To thicken chicken soup, you can use cornstarch. Mix 1 tablespoon with cold water, then stir it in. Allow it to cook for a few minutes. Alternatively, mash some of the vegetables in the pot. This adds thickness naturally.
For the full recipe, check out the Cozy Comfort Chicken Soup section.
This blog post covered a simple chicken soup recipe. We explored main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance flavors. I shared variations for dietary needs and details on storage.
Chicken soup is comforting, easy to make, and packed with nutrients. Whether you follow my recipe or tweak it, I hope you enjoy making your own. Happy cooking!
