This Chicken In Soup Recipe is a warm, comforting dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. With tender pieces of chicken simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth, combined with an array of vibrant vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to warm you on a chilly day or a simple dish to feed the family, this chicken soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this chicken in soup recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful harmony of tastes that will satisfy your palate. This recipe fits well within various diets as it can be made low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free with simple substitutions. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making clean-up a breeze!
Tips and Tricks
To make your chicken soup even better, consider these tips:
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a bit of oil before adding it to the broth to develop a rich, savory base.
- Use homemade chicken stock if possible—it’s more flavorful than store-bought.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it and stir it back in for a creamier texture without adding dairy.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components of this chicken soup in advance:
- Chop your vegetables a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Cook the chicken ahead of time and shred it; it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
- The soup itself can be made a day in advance and reheated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this chicken soup recipe to suit your taste:
- Swap out chicken breast for thighs for a richer flavor.
- Use different vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or kale based on what you have on hand.
- Experiment with spices; adding cumin or turmeric can give your soup an interesting twist.
- For a creamy version, stir in some coconut milk or cream.
How to Serve
Serve your chicken soup hot in deep bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top adds a nice finishing touch. Pair it with warm crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Consider presenting the soup with a side of lemon wedges for an extra zing.
Pairing Suggestions
This chicken soup pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced herbal tea. For side dishes, consider a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or homemade garlic bread. A slice of lemon drizzle cake or a fruit tart would make a delightful dessert to round off the meal.
How to Store
Leftover chicken soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for this recipe. A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables, and a ladle for serving are also essential. If you prefer, a slow cooker can be used for a hands-off approach—just set it on low and let it simmer throughout the day.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this chicken soup vegan, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth. For a dairy-free version, avoid adding cream and opt for coconut milk or nutritional yeast for creaminess. Gluten-free individuals can enjoy this dish by ensuring all ingredients, especially broth, are gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring, consider using fresh asparagus and peas for a light touch, while in the fall, adding squash or sweet potatoes will add a hearty feel. In winter, root vegetables like carrots and parsnips shine, and in summer, fresh tomatoes and herbs can brighten the dish.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?
A: Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just ensure it’s fully cooked through before consuming.
Q: How long should I cook the chicken?
A: Chicken breasts typically take about 15-20 minutes to cook through in simmering broth.
Q: Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
A: Absolutely! Turkey or even beans can work well in this soup.
How To Make Chicken In Soup Recipe
Chicken In Soup Recipe
This Chicken In Soup Recipe is a warm, comforting dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, then return the seared chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, adding in the peas.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 266Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 101mgSodium 1119mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 4gSugar 6gProtein 40g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this chicken soup is a straightforward yet rewarding process that results in a bowl of warmth and love. Perfect for any occasion—whether a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a remedy for the common cold—this recipe is bound to become a beloved classic in your home. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
