Chicken Meal Soup
A hearty chicken meal soup with flavorful seasoned broth and thickened cornmeal, perfect for comforting meals when feeling under the weather or craving homemade comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the fryer chicken, chopped onions, chopped celery, seasoned salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in 2 quarts of water until the chicken is cooked.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the broth and debone it.
- Return the deboned chicken to the pot.
- On low heat, gradually stir in the cornmeal, 1/2 cup at a time, until the desired thickness is achieved.
- Serve hot for a comforting meal, especially when feeling sick.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves while boiling the chicken. If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use flour or instant potato flakes as a thickening agent. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to mix in vegetables such as carrots or peas for extra nutrition. This recipe can also be adapted into vegan recipes by using vegetable broth and plant-based protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken meal soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Almond Rice or a slice of Farmer Chocolate Cake for dessert, creating a comforting dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Meal Soup contains roughly 288 calories, with 21g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 847mg per serving (37% 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 chicken breasts instead of a whole fryer?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that they may cook faster than a whole fryer. Adjust boiling time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked. Using bone-in chicken will enhance the broth's flavor, so consider adding bones or skin for richness.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during the cooking process. You can also serve the soup with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer to spice it up individually.
What can I serve this soup with for a complete meal?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a more filling option, serve it with a side of rice or quinoa. A refreshing drink like iced tea complements the flavors nicely, making for a satisfying meal.
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).