Ultimate Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, then the Ultimate Chicken Soup is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished part of my kitchen for years. It’s perfect for those chilly days when all you want is something comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends and family, there’s something magical about a pot of simmering chicken soup that brings everyone together.

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a go-to comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied and cared for. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still want something homemade.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves chicken soup! It’s an excellent way to get the kids to eat their veggies.
• Make-ahead option: You can easily prepare this soup in advance, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.
• Loaded with nutrition: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
• Comforting flavors: Every spoonful is a reminder of home, warmth, and love—what more could you ask for?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these already in your pantry or fridge. This recipe champions fresh produce and basic staples that come together beautifully in one pot.

For the Soup

• 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)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh tarragon
• 1 bay leaf
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley

Variations

One of the best things about the Ultimate Chicken Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even chickpeas if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Change the broth: Try using vegetable broth instead for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Ultimate Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the olive oil in a large pot on medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the carrots, parsnips, celery, leek, and onion. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they start to soften. This step builds the base flavor of your soup—so don’t skip it! Then stir in the minced garlic along with salt and pepper, giving everything another minute to mingle.

Step 2: Poach the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the aromatic herbs! Toss in the thyme, tarragon, bay leaf, chicken breasts, and pour in the chicken broth. Bring this lovely mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. This poaching method keeps your chicken juicy!

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot using tongs and place it on a cutting board. With two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces—this makes it easy to eat! Add it back into the pot along with any accumulated juices from your cutting board. Let everything simmer together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes so those flavors can blend nicely.

Step 4: Serve

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your creation! Remove the sprigs of thyme and tarragon along with the bay leaf. Stir in that fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor just before serving. Feel free to garnish each bowl with extra parsley or black pepper if desired. Your Ultimate Chicken Soup is ready to warm hearts and bellies alike!

Pro Tips for Making Ultimate Chicken Soup

Making the perfect chicken soup is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking game!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and tarragon add a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. They enhance the overall aroma and taste of the soup, making it more wholesome.
• Sauté veggies properly: Cooking the vegetables before adding the broth releases their natural sugars and flavors. This step builds a rich base for your soup, ensuring every spoonful is delicious.
• Don’t rush the poaching: Allowing the chicken to simmer gently in the broth ensures it remains tender and juicy. Quick cooking can lead to dry chicken, so patience is key!
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste your soup as it cooks! Adding more salt or pepper towards the end allows you to balance the flavors without over-seasoning from the start.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Prepare a batch in advance for an easy meal option later in the week.

How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Soup

Serving your Ultimate Chicken Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it. With a few thoughtful touches, you can enhance both presentation and taste!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up each bowl.
• Lemon zest: A light grate of lemon zest on top provides a subtle citrus note that complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds visual appeal but also gives an extra kick of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread alongside your soup for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth and makes for a comforting combination.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Pair your soup with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for added color and nutrition on your plate.
• Quinoa or brown rice: A small side of quinoa or brown rice can add heartiness to your meal while providing additional fiber and nutrients.

Enjoy crafting this comforting dish that warms both body and soul! Each serving is not just food—it’s a hug in a bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ultimate Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores well, allowing you to enjoy hearty bowls of comfort throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If using glass containers, ensure they are tempered for best results.

Freezing

• Divide the soup into portion-sized containers for easy reheating.
• Leave some space at the top of each container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Ultimate Chicken Soup.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for the Ultimate Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time. Just shred it and add it to the pot after sautéing your vegetables.

How do I make my Ultimate Chicken Soup healthier?

You can increase the amount of vegetables or substitute low-sodium broth for a lighter option. Adding leafy greens like spinach just before serving is another great way to boost nutrition!

What herbs can I substitute in this Ultimate Chicken Soup recipe?

Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or dill if you don’t have thyme or tarragon on hand. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor!

Can I make Ultimate Chicken Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply sauté your vegetables on a stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy 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 during chilly days. Whether you’re nourishing yourself or sharing with loved ones, this soup is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!