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Hearty Homemade Chicken Soup

This chicken soup features a rich, clear broth simmered with roasted chicken bones and fresh vegetables, resulting in a comforting dish with tender shredded chicken and vibrant flavors. The process involves slow simmering, straining, and gentle seasoning, culminating in a warm, nourishing bowl with a bright herbal finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg chicken bones and carcass preferably with some meat attached
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken leftover or cooked chicken
  • 3 large carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish and flavor
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped, for aroma
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the broth
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Shredding fork
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken bones, carcass, and chopped vegetables into a large stockpot, then cover with water. Bring to a gentle simmer, filling the air with a savory aroma and small bubbles rising to the surface.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 2 hours, skimming off foam and fat to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
  3. Remove the chicken bones and strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into another pot, discarding the solids. You should have a clear, aromatic broth.
  4. Add the cooked shredded chicken, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the strained broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 20-30 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
  5. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and stir in chopped herbs for a fragrant finish.
  6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this homemade chicken soup.

Notes

For a richer broth, roast the chicken bones in the oven at 400°F until golden before simmering. Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra flavor variations.