Homemade Chicken Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Homemade Chicken Soup to warm your heart and soul. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a chilly winter afternoon, and I craved something comforting and nourishing. As I gathered my ingredients, I could already envision the soothing aroma filling my kitchen and enveloping my home. The sound of the simmering broth and the sight of vegetables dancing around in the pot brought a sense of joy that only home-cooked meals can provide.

This Homemade Chicken Soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a tradition. It’s the type of dish that brings people together, perfect for sharing with family on cozy evenings or serving to friends when they’re feeling under the weather. Each spoonful is a reminder of home-cooked comfort, a blend of flavors that tells a story, bringing warmth to the coldest of days.

In my journey as a cook, I’ve learned that the best recipes come from the heart, and this one is no exception. Simple yet filled with love, this soup embodies everything I adore about cooking—using fresh ingredients, flavors that meld beautifully, and creating something heartwarming. So let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite!

Ingredients Overview for Homemade Chicken Soup

The ingredients in this Homemade Chicken Soup come together to create a nourishing and hearty meal. Each component plays a vital role in building rich flavors and textures that satisfy the soul. From the tender chicken to the vibrant vegetables, this recipe celebrates simplicity and comfort.

• 3-5 pound chicken – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. Using bone-in parts adds depth to the broth.
• 2 large onions – These add sweetness and depth, making the base of the soup aromatic.
• 5 stalks of celery – Celery contributes crunch and a refreshing flavor, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• 1 pound carrots – Carrots introduce natural sweetness and color, enhancing the soup’s visual appeal.
• 1 parsnip – This root vegetable adds a unique, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 or 2 small zucchini – Zucchini adds a subtle flavor and a nice texture, cooking down beautifully in the broth.
• 3 whole cloves of garlic – Garlic infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic essence, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 bunch of Italian parsley – Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color to the finished dish.
• 1 bunch of dill – Dill contributes a wonderful fragrance and taste, elevating the soup.
• Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning, starting with a tablespoon to balance the flavors.
• Orzo or other small pasta – Optional, these add heartiness and texture, making the soup even more filling.

How to Assemble Homemade Chicken Soup

Making Homemade Chicken Soup is a delightful experience. Each step allows you to connect with the ingredients and watch the magic unfold as they come together. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

1. Start by placing your chicken in a large pot. I prefer using bone-in parts for the best flavor. You want to ensure the pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
2. Add the onions, celery, carrots, parsnip, zucchini, and garlic to the pot. The colors of these vegetables will brighten up your dish and make it all the more appetizing.
3. Cover all the ingredients with cold water, but don’t go overboard; just an inch above the veggies will do. This balance is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in your soup.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once you see the bubbles forming, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. As the soup simmers, skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This step helps keep your broth clear and pristine.
6. After about an hour, add Kosher salt. Start with a scant tablespoon—remember, you can always add more later, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty soup!
7. Lay the parsley and dill atop the soup. Their fresh aromas will infuse the broth, elevating it to new levels of deliciousness.
8. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. This technique is essential for achieving the right consistency in your soup.
9. Continue simmering for about three more hours. Occasionally skim off foam to keep the broth clear.
10. Once the time is up, carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the broth. Strain the broth through a sieve to remove any solids, ensuring a smooth, flavorful base.
11. Slice the cooked carrots and add them back to the broth. Shred the chicken meat from the bones into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.
12. Add the cooked orzo or any small pasta you like, or you could opt for homemade matzoh balls for a traditional touch.
13. Finally, garnish your soup with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Make It Your Own

This Homemade Chicken Soup is a fantastic base that you can customize to suit your tastes. Here are some tips to make it unique:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the soup’s flavor.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They complement the warmth of the soup perfectly.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth and add your favorite plant-based proteins.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a flavor twist.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like peas or green beans to boost nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a little heat if you like your soup with a kick.

Perfect Matches for Homemade Chicken Soup

The beauty of Homemade Chicken Soup is its versatility in pairing with various dishes and settings. Here are some ideas:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious broth.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with light vinaigrette is a refreshing side that complements the richness of the soup.
• Lunch Delight: Perfect for lunch, Homemade Chicken Soup can be enjoyed solo or with a sandwich for a satisfying meal.
• Family Gatherings: This soup is ideal for family gatherings, making it a centerpiece for comforting meals.
• Seasonal Enjoyment: Enjoy it during the cold winter months when a warm soup feels most comforting.
• Leftovers: It makes excellent leftovers, and the flavors deepen over time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Homemade Chicken Soup stands out as a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful. Its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a go-to meal for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this soup; it’s easy to whip up and perfect for sharing with loved ones. So grab your ingredients, and let’s create some delicious memories together!

Homemade Chicken Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Homemade Chicken Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. Loaded with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, this easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family meals. Discover the soul-soothing flavors that make this dish a must-try tonight!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 each 3-5 pound chicken you can also use bone-in chicken parts
• 2 large onions peeled
• 5 stalks celery leaves included, cut in half
• 1 pound carrots peeled, with ends removed
• 1 each parsnip peeled
• 1-2 each small zucchini each cut into 3-4 chunks
• 3 cloves whole garlic peeled
• 1 bunch Italian parsley
• 1 bunch dill
• 1 tablespoon Kosher salt to taste, start with a scant tablespoon and taste after an hour or two, then re-season if necessary
• 1 cup Orzo or other small pasta or homemade matzoh balls

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Peeler
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by placing your chicken in a large pot. I prefer using bone-in parts for the best flavor. You want to ensure the pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
2. Add the onions, celery, carrots, parsnip, zucchini, and garlic to the pot. The colors of these vegetables will brighten up your dish and make it all the more appetizing.
3. Cover all the ingredients with cold water, but don’t go overboard; just an inch above the veggies will do. This balance is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in your soup.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once you see the bubbles forming, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. As the soup simmers, skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This step helps keep your broth clear and pristine.
6. After about an hour, add Kosher salt. Start with a scant tablespoon—remember, you can always add more later, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty soup!
7. Lay the parsley and dill atop the soup. Their fresh aromas will infuse the broth, elevating it to new levels of deliciousness.
8. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. This technique is essential for achieving the right consistency in your soup.
9. Continue simmering for about three more hours. Occasionally skim off foam to keep the broth clear.
10. Once the time is up, carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the broth. Strain the broth through a sieve to remove any solids, ensuring a smooth, flavorful base.
11. Slice the cooked carrots and add them back to the broth. Shred the chicken meat from the bones into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.
12. Add the cooked orzo or any small pasta you like, or you could opt for homemade matzoh balls for a traditional touch.
13. Finally, garnish your soup with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the soup's flavor.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They complement the warmth of the soup perfectly.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth and add your favorite plant-based proteins.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a flavor twist.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like peas or green beans to boost nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a little heat if you like your soup with a kick.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.