There is nothing quite as restorative as a warm bowl of classic chicken soup. Whether you’re nursing a cold or simply craving comfort, this healing chicken soup recipe brings together tender vegetables, savory herbs, and succulent chicken in a rich, golden broth. It’s a timeless dish that has fed families for generations, and today, we’re making it easier than ever to prepare right in your own kitchen. You can explore more Hearty Soup Recipes on our site, but this specific version focuses on simplicity and maximum flavor. We use low-sodium broth to control salt levels and fresh aromatics to build depth without overwhelming your palate.
Making a big pot of chicken soup is a wonderful way to meal prep for the week or share nourishment with a friend. By following these steps, you’ll master a dish that is both simple and sophisticated. This healing chicken soup recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with care. We also prioritize kitchen safety; for guidelines on safe food handling, consult the FDA chicken soup safety recommendations.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Healing Chicken Soup
This chicken soup recipe is the ultimate ‘better than takeout’ meal because you control exactly what goes into it. We skip the preservatives and excess sodium found in canned varieties, letting the natural flavors of the onions, carrots, and celery shine through. It is incredibly versatile; serve it as a light lunch with crackers, or make it the centerpiece of a hearty dinner with crusty bread.
The inclusion of garlic and thyme provides a subtle warmth that makes the broth taste like it simmered for hours, even though it comes together relatively quickly. Plus, using pre-cooked shredded chicken makes the process efficient for busy weeknights. It is the perfect way to enjoy a classic chicken soup without spending all day at the stove. This specific approach to chicken soup ensures you get that homemade taste with minimal fuss, making it a repeat favorite in your rotation of Hearty Soup Recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Fine mesh strainer
- Measuring cup
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Aromatics and Vegetables
Begin by washing and peeling your vegetables. Using your sharp chef’s knife and cutting board, dice the medium onion into small, even pieces. Slice the carrots and celery stalks into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference for texture in the final dish. Mince the garlic cloves finely so they release their flavor quickly when cooked. Having all your vegetables prepped and ready (a technique called ‘mise en place’) makes the cooking process much smoother and prevents burning. This attention to detail is the secret to a superior chicken soup broth.
Step 2: Sauté the Base Vegetables
Place your large stockpot over medium heat and add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Stir them with your wooden spoon and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the vegetables to soften and the onions to become translucent, but not browned. This sweating process releases the natural sugars and savory compounds, creating a deeply flavorful foundation for your soup. This step is vital for the overall taste profile of this healing chicken soup recipe.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme
Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Stir constantly for about 60 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it will turn bitter and ruin the flavor of the broth. The heat releases the essential oils in the garlic and the aromatic compounds in the thyme, infusing the oil and vegetables with a wonderful aroma. This aromatic boost is a hallmark of great chicken soup.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Use your measuring cup to ensure you have the right amount. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the carrots and celery to become tender and the flavors to meld together perfectly. Simmering gently ensures a clear, flavorful broth rather than a cloudy one.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Seasoning
Stir in the 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken. If you are using rotisserie chicken, you can skip this step earlier. Allow the soup to heat through for another 5 minutes. Now, taste the broth. Add the salt and black pepper, adjusting the amounts to your liking. You can use the fine mesh strainer to skim off any excess fat or foam from the surface for a cleaner look, though it’s optional. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, roast the chicken and vegetables before adding them to the pot.
- If you have time, simmer the soup for an extra 30 minutes to deepen the flavors, adding a splash of water if needed.
- Use homemade chicken stock if possible for the best depth and nutrient profile.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals later.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Yes, absolutely. You can add 1 to 1.5 pounds of raw chicken breasts or thighs along with the broth in step 4. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through (about 15-20 minutes), remove it to shred, and then return it to the pot in step 5.
Is this chicken soup gluten-free?
Yes, this specific recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use a certified gluten-free chicken broth. Always check the label on your broth to be sure.
How can I make this soup creamier?
For a creamy version, you can blend a cup of the cooked vegetables with some broth and stir it back into the pot, or stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the very end.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely. Potatoes, spinach, kale, or peas make excellent additions. Add root vegetables with the carrots, and leafy greens just a few minutes before serving.
How do I store and reheat this soup?
Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this comforting healing chicken soup recipe as much as we do. It truly is a versatile staple that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. The simplicity of the ingredients allows you to whip up a batch whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a fantastic starting point for exploring other Hearty Soup Recipes or experimenting with your own variations. If you make this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
We love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Be sure to share your photos and experiences, and remember to always prioritize food safety by following standard guidelines like those found at the FDA chicken soup safety page.
