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Homemade Chicken Soup

This hearty chicken soup is made by simmering bone-in chicken with aromatic vegetables and herbs, creating a clear, flavorful broth. The tender shredded chicken and tender vegetables make for a comforting, rustic dish with a warm, inviting appearance. It’s a versatile, nourishing meal that can be customized with noodles, rice, or extra herbs.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole bone-in chicken preferably with skin
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
  • 1 handful fresh parsley chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 8 cups cold water

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Slotted spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. Place the whole chicken in a large heavy-bottomed pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface to keep the broth clear.
  2. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, celery, and thyme sprigs into the pot. Continue simmering gently for about 1.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
  3. Remove the chicken from the broth and set aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into another pot or bowl to remove all solids, resulting in a clear, flavorful base.
  4. While the chicken cools, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks, discarding the skin and bones.
  5. Return the strained broth to the stove and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for another 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
  6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if you like, alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.