This recipe originated from my grandmother’s kitchen, where she believed a good soup could mend more than just a cold. It’s a simple yet profound act—to simmer, to season, to wait. When life feels too busy or heavy, this soup asks for patience and a bit of quiet.
Why I keep coming back to this healing soup
It’s a reminder that simple ingredients, treated patiently, create something nourishing beyond just flavor. Whenever I need a moment of calm or a gentle boost, this soup is there. It’s honest, warm, and unpretentious—like comfort in a bowl.
Breaking down the ingredients: what makes this soup special
- Chicken thighs: Rich in flavor and forgiving if slightly overcooked, perfect for shredding.
- Carrots: Sweet and earthy, they add color and a gentle natural sweetness.
- Celery: Adds a crisp, slightly bitter note that balances richness.
- Onions and garlic: Foundation of aroma and depth, smell like a warm hug.
- Lemon: Brightens everything with a zesty shimmer—don’t skip it.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley or cilantro add a fresh, vibrant finish.
Tools of the trade for a comforting chicken soup
- Large heavy-bottomed pot: Holds all ingredients and ensures even heat for simmering.
- Sharp knife: Chops vegetables and prepares chicken efficiently.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for prep work.
- Ladle: Serves the soup cleanly without disturbing the broth.
Step-by-step guide to a soul-soothing chicken soup
Step 1: Start with a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Sauté chopped onions and garlic in a splash of olive oil until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add chopped carrots and celery, cook until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. The kitchen will fill with a sweet, earthy aroma.
Step 3: Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer. Gently add chicken thighs or breasts, skinless and boneless.
Step 4: Simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, skimming foam. The broth should become rich and slightly cloudy.
Step 5: Remove chicken, shred with forks. Return to pot, season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Step 6: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Cooking checkpoints and tips to perfect your healing soup
- The broth is rich and slightly cloudy—perfect for maximum flavor.
- Chicken shreds easily—if it’s tough, give it a few more minutes in simmering water.
- Vegetables should be tender but not mushy—test with a fork for the right bite.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Undersalted broth.? Add a bit more salt if the broth tastes flat.
- Boiling chicken vigorously, making it tough.? Reduce heat if the broth is boiling too vigorously.
- Leaving foam in the soup, making it cloudy.? Skim foam often for a clearer broth.
- Overcooking chicken, making it tough.? Don’t overcook the chicken, it turns dry.
Hearty Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The kitchen will fill with a warm aroma.
- Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are just tender and slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. They should be vibrant and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the chicken thighs, making sure they are submerged in the broth. Cover the pot and let everything simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. The broth will become rich and slightly cloudy, infused with flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred the meat with two forks, pulling it apart into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir gently.
- Add the lemon zest and squeeze in the lemon juice to brighten the broth. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Give the soup a final stir, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra herbs if desired. Enjoy the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of this healing chicken soup.
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