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Homemade Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is a slow-cooked, comforting dish made by simmering a whole chicken with fresh vegetables and herbs, resulting in a clear, fragrant broth with tender shredded meat. The process emphasizes patience and natural flavor development, producing a cozy, nourishing bowl perfect for any day. The final texture features soft vegetables, shredded chicken, and a beautifully aromatic broth.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken preferably organic or free-range
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves bay leaves
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lemon lemon optional, for brightness
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Ladle
  • Kitchen tongs
  • Fine mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. Place the whole chicken in a large heavy-bottomed pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 1 hour, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  2. Carefully remove the chicken from the broth using tongs, and set aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into a clean pot, discarding the solids.
  3. While the broth is simmering, remove the chicken meat from the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones and skin.
  4. Return the strained broth to the stove and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion. Cook for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
  5. Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. Let simmer for another 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
  6. Remove the bay leaves and add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Warm through for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste the broth and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon if desired, to brighten the flavors.
  8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy the cozy, nourishing flavors of this homemade chicken soup.

Notes

For an even clearer broth, strain again before serving. Feel free to add greens, hot sauce, or vinegar to customize your soup.