Simple Chicken Soup Recipe for a Comfort Meal

Soup is one of the most beloved comfort foods across cultures, and chicken soup in particular has been cherished for generations. This classic recipe is perfect to warm you up on chilly winter days or during those times when you just need a good dose of nutrients after an illness. Here’s how to prepare it.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg whole chicken
• 3 carrots, sliced into chunks
• 2 celery sticks, chopped finely
• 6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
• 4 stalks of parsley, fresh or dried
• 5 cloves of garlic, peeled but left whole
• A bundle of fresh thyme (optional)
• 8 cups of chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking time: Approximately 1 hour

Number of servings: 6-8 people

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

The first step in preparing this recipe is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready. Rinse the chicken well under cold water, then remove any parts like giblets or excess fat that you may not need for the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots and celery to the pot first, as they take longer to cook than potatoes do. Stir occasionally until they are golden brown but not burnt. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the whole chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, which should take approximately 10 minutes. As you're browning the chicken, release its natural juices into the vegetables in the pot. This adds flavor depth to your soup.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the chopped potatoes and parsley to the pot next. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that all ingredients are covered by about an inch of liquid. If you’re using dried thyme or other herbs, add them at this stage as well.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat and letting it simmer gently for about 1 hour. During this time, the chicken should be fully cooked through, and all ingredients will blend together to make a thick and rich soup base.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Once the soup is done simmering, remove any bones that are left in it. Taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with optional garnishes like fresh parsley or a slice of lemon if desired.

Tips:

• To make your chicken broth tastier, roast the chicken parts at 350°F (175°C) in olive oil for about an hour before making the soup. This adds extra flavor to the broth and intensifies the taste of the final dish.
• For a heartier meal, you can serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or over hot buttered noodles.

Health Benefits:

Chicken soup is not only comforting but also packed with health benefits. The chicken provides high-quality protein which aids in muscle repair and growth. Potatoes supply essential carbohydrates, while the vegetables offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall good health.

Conclusion

This simple chicken soup recipe is a timeless favorite for its simplicity yet rich flavors. Whether you're cooking it during cold weather or looking to boost your immune system after being under the weather, this dish offers much more than just sustenance; it’s about warmth and care. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful meal with friends and family.

Remember, while soups like chicken soup are delicious and nutritious, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.