Family Recipe Chicken Soup
Hearty chicken soup infused with herbs and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and those craving a flavorful, nutritious homemade broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the small fryer chicken in a large pot and cover with water.
- Add bouillon cubes, chopped carrots, chopped celery, chopped onion, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and fresh parsley to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and flavors meld, about 1 hour.
- Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool slightly.
- Strain the broth if desired, then shred the chicken meat, discarding skin and bones.
- Return shredded chicken to the broth.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add lemon juice.
- Gradually stir the egg mixture into the hot broth to create a gentle thickening.
- Add pepper to taste.
- Cook Minute rice separately according to package instructions.
- Serve the hot soup over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some bay leaves or thyme to the broth. If you don't have bouillon cubes, you can use chicken stock instead. For a healthier option, replace the egg with a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup. You can also substitute Minute rice with whole grain varieties, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup over cooked rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the broth. For a complete dinner, consider serving with a light dessert or a fruit salad to balance the flavors. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family Recipe Chicken Soup contains roughly 512 calories, with 17g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (77% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked. Just make sure to adjust the simmering time and check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F before serving.
How can I make this soup more nutritious?
You can boost the nutrition by adding more vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas. Including beans or lentils can also add protein and fiber. For a heartier meal, consider adding whole grains like quinoa or barley, which would complement the soup well.
What can I do if the soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, you can dilute it with additional water or low-sodium broth. Adding a few peeled potatoes and simmering them in the soup can also help absorb some of the saltiness. Just remember to remove the potatoes before serving.
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).