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Quick Chicken Soup

This speedy chicken soup combines shredded cooked chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, and fresh vegetables simmered in flavorful broth, resulting in a hearty, comforting dish with a clear, nourishing broth and tender ingredients. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that captures the essence of traditional chicken soup with minimal fuss and time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homestyle
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or poached chicken works well
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots carrots sliced into thin rounds
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme chopped, added at the end
  • optional lemon zest or paprika for added zing

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons & cups

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients and tools. If your chicken isn’t shredded yet, do so now, making sure it’s finely pulled apart for even distribution.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn translucent and release a sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a savory aroma.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, watching for small bubbles to form around the edges.
  6. Add the shredded chicken and sliced carrots to the broth, stirring gently to combine everything evenly.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon zest or paprika to taste, then let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the carrots are tender and flavors meld.
  8. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning accordingly, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
  9. Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a bright herbal finish.
  10. Serve the hot, hearty soup in bowls, accompanied by crusty bread or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

For an even quicker version, use pre-shredded rotisserie chicken and pre-chopped vegetables. Adjust simmering time based on your preference for vegetable tenderness. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.