Prep Time ⇒ | 15 mins |
Cook Time ⇒ | 40 mins |
Protein ⇒ | 66.1g |
Fat ⇒ | 16.8g |
Carbs ⇒ | 6.9g |
Warming Chicken Soup Recipe
Chicken soup has been cherished across cultures for centuries, known for its comforting qualities and nourishing ingredients. Since the 2nd century AD, people have discovered that combining chicken, water, and a handful of vegetables creates not just flavor, but also a deep sense of well-being.
Why This is Our Best Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe
In this quick and easy chicken soup recipe, we skip the long simmering process by poaching thigh fillets instead, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth in less time. With a kick from whole peppercorns and a finishing touch of fresh parsley, this soup is sure to warm your heart and soul.
Key Ingredients in Our Chicken Soup Recipe
- Chicken: Thigh fillets offer a robust, flavorful base for the soup.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic add essential flavor and nutrition.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme enhance the broth’s depth.
- Black Peppercorns: The secret ingredient that adds a gentle warmth, making this a truly comforting dish.
For more delicious chicken soup ideas, check out our chicken noodle soup recipe and explore our slow-cooker chicken soup options.
Ingredients :
- 4 (about 900g) chicken thigh cutlets, skinned and trimmed of excess fat
- 1 large brown onion, halved and finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 celery stick, trimmed and finely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh continental parsley stems
- 6 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves picked
- 2L (8 cups) water
- 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns
- Sea salt flakes, to taste
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh continental parsley, for serving
Allergens! May contain traces of allergens based on preparation.
Method :
Step 1: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the chicken thigh cutlets, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, parsley stems, thyme, water, and black peppercorns. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
Step 2: Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a clean work surface. Remove the meat from the bones, discarding the bones. Tear the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the soup.
Step 3: Taste and season with sea salt flakes. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with the extra chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes :
Why Chicken Soup When You Have a Cold?
Eating chicken soup offers genuine health benefits when you’re feeling under the weather. The warm broth hydrates and helps relieve congestion, while the chicken provides protein and anti-inflammatory properties. Carrots and celery add valuable nutrients, and the gentle flavors of herbs make it easier to eat when your appetite is low. A comforting bowl of chicken soup truly soothes the soul.
Can You Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
For a comforting slow-cooked option, combine all the ingredients except the parsley in a slow cooker, reducing the water to 1.5L (6 cups). Cook on low for 6 hours. Afterward, shred the chicken and stir it back into the broth along with the parsley for a delicious finish.
Recipe Variations :
Chicken soup exists in many forms around the world. To create a chicken noodle soup, add 150g dried egg noodles or vermicelli in the last 8-10 minutes of cooking. For a Portuguese twist, add 2 chopped potatoes and 1/2 cup of rice at the beginning. For a Mexican flair, reduce the stock by a cup, then add a can of tomatoes and drained corn, along with cumin and chili for seasoning.
Enjoy making this delightful homemade chicken soup, perfect for any occasion!
The health benefits of the ingredients in Warming Chicken Soup :
The Nutritional Benefits of Chicken
Chicken is the star ingredient in this warming soup, providing a lean source of protein essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s low in saturated fat and packed with B vitamins, such as niacin and B6, which play key roles in energy metabolism and brain function. Chicken also contains minerals like phosphorus and selenium, which are important for bone health and immune support. To learn more about the health benefits of chicken, check out this link. Incorporating chicken into your diet not only enhances flavor but also contributes to overall nutritional balance.
The Power of Broth: A Comforting Base
The broth in chicken soup is more than just a flavorful base; it provides hydration and essential minerals. Homemade broth, made by simmering chicken bones, is rich in collagen and gelatin, which support joint and skin health. Additionally, broth contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which play roles in digestion and muscle repair. For more information about the benefits of broth, visit this link. Using a nutritious broth can elevate your soup while providing added health benefits.
Carrots: A Sweet Nutritional Boost
Carrots are a staple in chicken soup, offering natural sweetness and crunch. Rich in beta-carotene, carrots promote eye health and immune function, as the body converts this nutrient into vitamin A. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. For more about the health benefits of carrots, check out this link. Adding carrots not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the soup’s nutritional profile.
Celery: A Hydrating Ingredient
Celery is another key vegetable in chicken soup, known for its high water content and crunchy texture. It’s low in calories and provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like potassium. The fiber in celery supports digestive health, and its natural compounds may have anti-inflammatory effects. To learn more about celery’s benefits, visit this link. Including celery in your soup enhances both flavor and nutritional value.
The Role of Onions: Flavor and Health
Onions add depth of flavor to chicken soup while offering numerous health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and contain quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Onions also provide vitamins C and B6, contributing to immune support and energy production. For more information about onions and their health benefits, check out this link. Incorporating onions into your soup not only boosts taste but also provides significant nutritional advantages.
Garlic: A Flavorful Immune Booster
Garlic enhances the flavor profile of chicken soup and brings a wealth of health benefits. Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It contains allicin, a compound associated with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects. For more on the benefits of garlic, visit this link. Adding garlic to your soup not only elevates the taste but also supports your immune system.
Herbs and Spices: Flavor and Wellness
Herbs and spices like thyme, parsley, and black pepper are often added to chicken soup, providing both flavor and health benefits. Thyme is known for its antimicrobial properties, while parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to overall health. Black pepper may enhance digestion and has antioxidant properties. For more about the benefits of herbs, visit this link. Using fresh herbs and spices can enhance the flavor of your soup while promoting wellness.
Exploring More Recipes
If you enjoyed this Warming Chicken Soup recipe and are looking for more hearty dishes, visit hearty-recipes.com. This site features a variety of delicious recipes focused on wholesome ingredients, allowing you to explore new flavors while maintaining a balanced diet.