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Hearty Winter Chicken Soup

This nourishing chicken soup is made by simmering chicken thighs with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, seasoned with thyme and bay leaves. The slow cooking process results in tender meat and a clear, flavorful broth with a comforting, rustic appearance. It’s a cozy dish that offers warmth and a sense of home with every spoonful.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs or drumsticks preferably bone-in for flavor
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 large carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth homemade or low-sodium
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 lemon or fresh parsley for garnish optional, brightens the flavor

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients: chicken, vegetables, herbs, and broth. Have your tools ready for a smooth process.
  2. Place the large pot over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once shimmering, lay the chicken pieces in the pot and brown them for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. This develops rich flavor in the final soup.
  3. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot with the chicken. Sauté together for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the kitchen fills with a savory aroma.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the ingredients are covered. Toss in the thyme and bay leaves, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let everything simmer gently for about 45 minutes, skimming off foam and fat that rise to the surface to keep the broth clear and clean.
  6. Check the chicken for tenderness— it should be cooked through and easily shreddable. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
  7. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs if you used fresh herbs. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot.
  8. Stir gently to combine all flavors, then turn off the heat. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice or sprinkle chopped parsley over the soup for a bright, fresh finish.
  9. Ladle the hot, fragrant soup into bowls, making sure each has tender chicken and vegetables. Serve with crusty bread if desired, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this homemade classic.

Notes

For extra flavor, try roasting the chicken thighs before adding them to the soup. You can also add noodles or rice for a heartier meal.