Name: Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds a rich, healthy base.; 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced – For sweetness and texture.; 3 parsnips, peeled and sliced – Adds a unique earthy sweetness.; 3 celery ribs, sliced – Essential for a classic soup flavor.; ½ medium onion, diced – Provides depth to the broth.; 1 leek, halved lengthwise, sliced, and rinsed – Adds a mild, onion-like flavor.; 4 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the soup with aromatic notes.; 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For a subtle kick.; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Protein-rich and tender.; 2 sprigs fresh thyme – Delivers a lovely herby aroma.; 2 sprigs fresh tarragon – Adds a hint of anise-like flavor.; 1 bay leaf – Adds subtle earthy notes.; 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Forms the base of the soup.; ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley – Brightens and freshens the final dish.

Nothing warms the soul like a steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup. This Chicken Soup Recipe is perfect for anyone seeking comfort in a bowl, packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy meal, this soup delivers. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any season.

Fresh Ingredients for the Best Flavor

The secret to a great chicken soup lies in fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds a rich, healthy base.
4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced – For sweetness and texture.
3 parsnips, peeled and sliced – Adds a unique earthy sweetness.
3 celery ribs, sliced – Essential for a classic soup flavor.
½ medium onion, diced – Provides depth to the broth.
1 leek, halved lengthwise, sliced, and rinsed – Adds a mild, onion-like flavor.
4 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the soup with aromatic notes.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For a subtle kick.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Protein-rich and tender.
2 sprigs fresh thyme – Delivers a lovely herby aroma.
2 sprigs fresh tarragon – Adds a hint of anise-like flavor.
1 bay leaf – Adds subtle earthy notes.
5 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Forms the base of the soup.
¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley – Brightens and freshens the final dish.

Essential Tools to Make Chicken Soup

Before you start, gather these essential kitchen tools:

Large pot or Dutch oven – To cook the soup evenly.
Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping vegetables and herbs.
Tongs – To handle the chicken easily.
Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring.
Forks – For shredding the chicken.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these simple steps to create a bowl of chicken soup that’s full of rich, comforting flavors.

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced carrots, parsnips, celery, leek, and diced onion. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables are slightly softened and starting to release their aromas. Add the minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper, and stir for another minute to blend the flavors.

2. Poach the Chicken

Next, add the fresh thyme, tarragon, bay leaf, chicken breasts, and low-sodium chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

3. Shred and Return the Chicken

Using tongs, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to gently shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and let it simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Finishing Touches

Remove the sprigs of thyme, tarragon, and the bay leaf. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, which adds a pop of color and fresh, vibrant flavor. Serve the soup hot, garnishing each bowl with extra parsley and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

Tips to Enhance the Flavor

Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and tarragon elevate the soup with their bright flavors, making a noticeable difference compared to dried herbs.
Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking the time to properly sauté the vegetables helps develop a deep, rich base flavor.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Avoid These Mistakes When Making Chicken Soup

Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking can make the chicken tough and dry. Simmer until just cooked through, then shred.
Skipping the sauté step: This step is crucial for building a flavorful base. Don’t skip it!
Forgetting to remove the herbs: Be sure to remove the thyme, tarragon, and bay leaf before serving to avoid any unpleasant bites.

How to Serve Chicken Soup for the Best Experience

Serve your chicken soup with warm, crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. For a light and refreshing side, pair it with a crisp green salad. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations to Try

Swap chicken breasts for thighs: For a richer flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Add noodles or rice: For a more filling soup, add cooked noodles or rice during the last few minutes of cooking.
Vegetable variation: Add diced potatoes or peas to the mix for extra heartiness.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Soup

Leftover chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat until hot, or microwave in individual bowls. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months.

FAQs About Chicken Soup Recipe

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply skip the poaching step and add shredded chicken directly to the simmering broth.

Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Chicken soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

conclusion

This comforting Chicken Soup Recipe is a must-have for your kitchen repertoire. Easy to make, nourishing, and packed with fresh flavors, it’s a bowl of warmth perfect for any day. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, comforting recipes!