Easy and Healthy Homemade Chicken Soup

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup, don’t you think? This recipe has been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember. Whenever the weather turns chilly or when someone’s feeling under the weather, this Easy and Healthy Homemade Chicken Soup comes to the rescue like a cozy hug in a bowl.

The Heartwarming Nature of Chicken Soup

This soup isn’t just about its deliciousness; it embodies love and care—the very essence of home cooking. The way the fragrant aromas waft through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a soft blanket, is something I cherish deeply. I’ve often recalled childhood memories where my mom would whip this up, and you could almost hear the soup sing. It’s a dish that feels like it belongs to family gatherings, rainy afternoons, and quiet evenings in. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a perfect go-to anytime you need a little pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

So why should you dive into this delightful dish tonight? First and foremost, it’s simple and packed with flavor. Poaching the chicken lends a tenderness that feels indulgent, while the mix of veggies brightens every spoonful. Each ingredient plays a role; from the earthy thyme to the fresh, leafy parsley garnish—it’s like a well-rehearsed symphony.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly nourishing. With vibrant carrots, celery, and winter veggies, this soup fills your bowl with vitamins and minerals that your body craves, especially during those colder months. And let’s not overlook the aromatic garlic and onion; their warmth adds depth and character, elevating this dish beyond mere nourishment into something truly special. You get comfort food without the guilt—now that’s a win-win!

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this magical elixir, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 poached chicken breasts, shredded: The star of our soup! Poaching keeps the meat super moist; you can use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Homemade is best if you have some on hand. If not, grab a low-sodium store-bought version. It serves as the soul of your soup.
• 2 carrots, diced: These sweet beauties not only add color but bring a nice crunch—don’t leave them out!
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Perfect for that classic chicken soup taste. Want an extra level of flavor? Use the leaves too!
• 1 onion, chopped: Onions are essential—sweetness galore! They create the base layer of flavor that makes the soup sing.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A little garlic goes a long way in creating depth. Fresh is always best—plus, it’s anti-inflammatory!
• 2 cups mixed winter vegetables: Think peas, green beans, and corn. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies; frozen works just as well!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that brings earthy tones. If you have fresh on hand, even better!
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: This adds wonderful aroma—subject to adjustment based on your palate.
• Salt and pepper: Always essential to bring out the flavors.
• Fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish: A sprinkle of freshness on top elevates the presentation—plus, it’s pretty!

Preparing Easy and Healthy Homemade Chicken Soup

1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat—just enough to coat the bottom.
2. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant—trust me, you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with that lovely smell.
3. Add the diced carrots and celery to the mix. Cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes—this is where the magic starts!
4. Pour in the chicken broth, and introduce the mixed winter veggies and shredded chicken to the party.
5. Season with thyme and rosemary; give it a good stir. Bring it all to a simmer; you want the flavors to marry beautifully—about 15-20 minutes will do the job.
6. Finally, taste and season with salt and pepper as you see fit—don’t be shy; good soup deserves it!

Best Way to Enjoy It

Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls with a flourish! You can serve it alongside crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. Want to jazz it up? Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some chili flakes for a kick!

How to Store and Freeze

Leftover soup? No problem! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze it too—just make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe bags. It’ll keep well for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed.

Extra Tips and Advice

• For a vegetarian take, swap out chicken for your favorite beans or lentils and use veggie broth.
• Don’t have time to poach chicken? Great shortcuts exist—rotisserie chicken or canned chicken can work just fine.
• If you want a thicker soup, consider adding some cooked rice or pasta at the end—just a few handfuls will do the trick!

Creative Twists

Want to put a personal spin on it? How about tossing in a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture? Or, for a burst of freshness, add a handful of spinach or kale just a few minutes before serving. Feel free to experiment with herbs; basil or cilantro give a whole new flavor profile!

Ingredients

• 2 poached chicken breasts, shredded
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed winter vegetables (e.g., peas, green beans, corn)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley) for garnish

Directions to Follow

1. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
3. Add diced carrots and celery; cook until tender.
4. Stir in chicken broth, mixed vegetables, and shredded chicken.
5. Add thyme and rosemary; bring to a simmer.
6. Cook for 15-20 minutes; season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Common Questions

• How long does prep take? About 10-15 minutes.
• Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Just toss them in frozen; they’ll cook quickly.
• What can I pair it with? A light salad or crusty bread are perfect companions.
• Is it okay to freeze? Yes, just remember to cool completely before freezing.
• How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes to taste or a dash of hot sauce!

This soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart. Each spoonful reminds us of home, of family, and the simple joy of a shared meal. I hope you give this a try, let it evolve in your own kitchen, and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience or little tweaks in the comments; after all, we’re all in this together!

Print Recipe

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Easy and Healthy Homemade Chicken Soup

Cooking Method: Simmering Courses: Lunch, Main Course, Soups Recipe Keys: Dairy Free Gluten Free High Protein Non Vegetarian Quick Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 35 mins

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 400

Best Season: Winter

Description

A warm bowl of Easy and Healthy Homemade Chicken Soup perfect for chilly days or when feeling unwell, packed with nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 breasts poached chicken, shredded (Poaching keeps the meat super moist.)
• 4 cups chicken broth (Homemade is best, otherwise low-sodium store-bought.)
• 2 count carrots, diced (Adds color and crunch.)
• 2 stalks celery, diced (Use the leaves for extra flavor.)
• 1 count onion, chopped (Provides sweetness and flavor base.)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh for best flavor, adds depth.)
• 2 cups mixed winter vegetables (E.g., peas, green beans, corn; frozen works well.)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (Earthy flavor; use fresh if available.)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (Aromatic; adjust to taste.)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish (Enhances presentation.)

Directions

Making the Soup

1. Heat Oil

   In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat until it's enough to coat the bottom.
   Mark as complete

2. Sauté Aromatics

   Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant.
   You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with a lovely smell.
   Mark as complete

3. Add Veggies

   Add diced carrots and celery; cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
   This is where the magic starts!
   Mark as complete

4. Combine Ingredients

   Pour in the chicken broth and introduce mixed winter veggies and shredded chicken.
   Mark as complete

5. Season and Simmer

   Season with thyme and rosemary. Stir well and bring to a simmer; cook for about 15-20 minutes.
   Allow flavors to marry beautifully.
   Mark as complete

6. Final Taste and Serve

   Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 400kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 13g20%

Saturated Fat 3g15%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 60mg20%

Sodium 800mg34%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 35g12%

Dietary Fiber 5g20%

Sugars 6g

Protein 35g70%

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Vitamin A 900 IU

Vitamin C 30 mg

Calcium 50 mg

Iron 2 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 10 mcg

Thiamin 0.2 mg

Riboflavin 0.3 mg

Niacin 6 mg

Vitamin B6 0.5 mg

Folate 40 mcg

Vitamin B12 1.5 mcg

Phosphorus 300 mg

Magnesium 25 mg

Zinc 2 mg

Selenium 20 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: chicken soup, healthy, comfort food, easy recipe