Ultimate Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your soul, you’ve come to the right place! The Ultimate Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and so easy to make that you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

This beloved recipe is special because it’s brimming with wholesome ingredients that not only taste fantastic but also offer comfort and healing properties. It’s great for family gatherings or when you’re feeling under the weather. Trust me, once you try this Ultimate Chicken Soup, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up a delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with veggies and tender chicken, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh vegetables and herbs, this soup is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and tender chicken creates a rich flavor that feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that preparing the Ultimate Chicken Soup involves simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you need to gather:

Fresh Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 3 parsnips (peeled and sliced)
• 3 celery ribs (sliced)
• ½ medium onion (diced)
• 1 leek (halved lengthwise, sliced, and rinsed)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)

Seasonings & Herbs

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh tarragon
• 1 bay leaf

Chicken & Broth

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For Garnish

• ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley

Now that you have everything ready to go, let’s dive into making this incredible soup!

Variations

One of the best things about the Ultimate Chicken Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these simple variations:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like heat.
• Switch the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of poaching your own for even faster prep.
• Go vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a hearty plant-based option.

How to Make Ultimate Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the carrots, parsnips, celery, leek, and onion. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes while stirring frequently. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness and flavor. Once those veggies are tender, add in the minced garlic along with the salt and pepper. Stir everything together for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Poach the Chicken

Next up, add the sprigs of thyme and tarragon along with the bay leaf into your pot. Place the chicken breasts in there too! Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover your pot. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through—this will infuse all those wonderful flavors into your broth.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

After simmering, carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts using tongs and transfer them to a cutting board. With two forks, gently shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step helps ensure every spoonful of soup has tender bits of chicken! Return the shredded chicken back into the pot and let it simmer for an additional minute or two.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Finally, remove those herb sprigs—thyme, tarragon—and bay leaf from your pot. Stir in fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor before serving. Don’t forget to garnish each bowl with extra parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired!

And there you have it—the Ultimate Chicken Soup! Serve hot alongside crusty bread or on its own as a comforting meal any day of the week. Enjoy every warm sip!

Pro Tips for Making Ultimate Chicken Soup

Making the ultimate chicken soup is all about maximizing flavor and comfort. Here are some tips to help you create a bowl of deliciousness every time!

• Use fresh herbs – Fresh thyme and tarragon add a wonderful aroma and depth to your soup, making it taste vibrant and homemade.

• Don’t rush the sautéing – Taking the time to properly sauté the vegetables enhances their sweetness and brings out their natural flavors, which forms a more flavorful base for your soup.

• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go! Adding salt and pepper gradually allows you to control the seasoning and ensure it’s just right for your palate.

• Choose quality broth – A low-sodium chicken broth is essential. It serves as the backbone of your soup, so using a quality broth will enhance the overall flavor without being overly salty.

• Save leftovers wisely – If you have any soup left over, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This makes for a quick reheat meal that’s just as comforting!

How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Soup

Serving your ultimate chicken soup can be as fun as making it! The presentation can elevate a simple dish into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions – Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and a slight crunch.
• Lemon zest – A touch of lemon zest adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the soup.
• Croutons or toasted bread – For added texture, serve with crispy croutons or a slice of buttery toasted bread on the side.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread – A hearty slice complements the soup beautifully, perfect for dipping and savoring every last drop.

• Mixed green salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots make for a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with chicken soup.

• Quinoa or rice pilaf – A fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf can be served alongside to make this meal even more filling while providing an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy crafting this warm bowl of goodness that’s not only nourishing but also sure to bring smiles around your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ultimate Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Here’s how to make sure your soup stays fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down to room temperature.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label the containers with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making this Ultimate Chicken Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries you might have:

Can I use other vegetables in Ultimate Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Just be mindful of cooking times if you choose denser veggies.

How long does Ultimate Chicken Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Ultimate Chicken Soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Is it possible to make Ultimate Chicken Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or other plant-based proteins and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This creates a delicious vegetarian alternative!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ultimate Chicken Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to share your own variations! Happy cooking!