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Hearty Homemade Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is built through gentle simmering, layering flavors from bone-in chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fresh herbs. The broth becomes silky and clear, with tender chunks of chicken and sweet vegetables that create a nourishing, comforting dish with a vibrant aroma and inviting appearance.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Home-style
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken (bone-in, skin-on) preferably a whole or large pieces
  • 2 carrots carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery celery sliced
  • 1 yellow yellow onion halved
  • a handful parsley fresh parsley chopped
  • a few sprigs thyme fresh thyme whole sprigs
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1 lemon (optional) lemon for squeezing

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Place the whole chicken into a large heavy-bottomed pot and cover with cold water, ensuring the water level is about an inch above the chicken.
  2. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat, and as it heats, skim off any foam that rises to the surface with a slotted spoon—this helps keep the broth clear.
  3. Add sliced carrots, sliced celery, and halved onion to the pot, spreading them around the chicken.
  4. Tie the sprigs of thyme with kitchen twine or toss them directly into the pot for easy removal later.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently, uncovered, for about 1.5 hours, skimming foam occasionally to keep the broth clear and flavorful.
  6. After simmering, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly; discard the thyme sprigs.
  7. While the chicken cools, taste the broth and season with salt and pepper as needed for a balanced flavor.
  8. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding skin and bones.
  9. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to distribute evenly in the flavorful broth.
  10. Chop fresh parsley finely and add it to the soup for a bright, herbal finish.
  11. Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving for a citrusy shimmer that lifts the flavors.
  12. Serve the hot, nourishing chicken soup in bowls, enjoying the silky broth, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, simmer the broth with a parsnip or a garlic clove. Feel free to add noodles or rice for a heartier variation.