Beth'S "Magic" Chicken Soup
A comforting, savory chicken soup with tender pasta, carrots, and cabbage, finished with garlic powder and seasoning—perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the whole chicken in about 3 quarts of water until tender.
- Remove the chicken from the stock, let it cool, and debone it.
- Add the bouillon cubes and grated carrots to the stock; simmer until the pasta is tender, crushing the pasta before adding it to the pot.
- Slice the cabbage into 1-inch strips and add them to the pot.
- Stir, turn off the heat, and cover the pot.
- Let the soup set for 30 minutes, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during the simmering stage. For a twist, substitute angel hair pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options, which can add texture and nutrition. Using homemade chicken stock instead of bouillon cubes can elevate the soup's taste significantly. If you prefer more vegetables, consider adding peas or green beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated Parmesan on top can add a finishing touch. This comforting soup pairs beautifully with Pam Davis' Savory Crescent Chicken Squares for a heartier dinner. Consider offering a light dessert to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftover soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beth'S "Magic" Chicken Soup contains roughly 260 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and potassium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 785mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but it may not yield as rich a flavor as simmering a whole chicken. Cook the boneless chicken separately and add it to the soup later to maintain a tender texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I do if the soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, try adding a peeled potato to the pot while simmering; it will absorb some of the salt. Alternatively, you can dilute the soup with additional water or low-sodium chicken broth to balance out the flavors.
Is it possible to add more vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces and added in time to cook through without becoming mushy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).