Real Chicken Soup
A comforting and clear chicken soup with fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for soothing and nourishing, suitable for all seasons and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put chicken and salt into a large (12 to 14 cup) soup pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil and lower heat. Remove all gray matter with a ladle strainer so the soup water is clear and clean.
- Add all vegetables, dill, and parsley.
- Do not let the soup boil; it must simmer slowly for about 1 1/2 hours.
- Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or replacing some water with chicken broth. If you're out of dill, fresh parsley or thyme can work well instead. To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken; just add it towards the end of cooking to heat through. This comforting soup can also be enhanced with a pinch of turmeric for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken soup warm in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Chicken Bundles With Bacon Ribbons for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Real Chicken Soup contains roughly 21 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% 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's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase the simmering time slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through and flavors are well developed.
What if I don't have fresh vegetables?
You can use frozen vegetables in place of fresh ones. Just add them during the last 30 minutes of simmering to ensure they don’t become mushy. This is a great way to save prep time while still enjoying a hearty soup.
How can I make this soup more flavorful?
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of soy sauce towards the end of cooking. These additions will enhance the broth without overpowering the dish. Experimenting with different herbs can also elevate the 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).