New England Chicken Soup
A hearty New England chicken soup with tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and savory broth, perfect for comforting meals and cold days, appealing to families and soup lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Simmer the chicken in soy sauce, maple syrup, and diced onion until cooked through.
- Add water, chicken bouillon cubes, sliced celery, black pepper, basil, and parsley to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of water and bouillon cubes. You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. If you prefer a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste, so feel free to use fresh basil and parsley instead of dried.
Serving Suggestions
This New England Chicken Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside a warm bowl of rice or noodles. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors. It also complements well with dishes like A.1.-Derful Chicken for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bring the soup to a simmer on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months, but avoid freezing with fresh herbs added, as they can lose flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Chicken Soup contains roughly 249 calories, with 28g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. At about 249 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them first for even cooking. If you need to cook from frozen, increase the simmering time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon cubes?
You can replace chicken bouillon cubes with homemade chicken stock or broth. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable bouillon cubes or a similar flavor-enhancing base. Just adjust the salt levels accordingly, as some broth may already be salted.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to your soup, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while it simmers. You could also add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for a flavor boost. Just remember to start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
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).