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Comforting Chicken Soup

This easy chicken soup is made by simmering tender shredded chicken with fragrant vegetables in a flavorful broth, resulting in a warm, clear, and hearty dish. The process involves sautéing vegetables, simmering with chicken and herbs, and finishing with fresh seasonings for a cozy, inviting appearance and comforting texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts) cooked and shredded
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lemon lemon (optional) freshly squeezed
  • Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Gather your equipment: a large heavy-bottomed pot, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a wooden spoon.
  2. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces—this helps them cook evenly and release their fragrant aromas.
    1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts)
  3. Pour a tablespoon of olive oil into the pot and warm it over medium heat, then add the diced vegetables. Sauté until they become fragrant and start to soften, about 5 minutes, with a slight sizzle and a sweet smell filling the kitchen.
    1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts)
  4. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables, and cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
    1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts)
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, hearing a soft bubbling sound.
    1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts)
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender. You'll notice the broth darkening slightly and the vegetables softening when ready.
  7. Remove the bay leaf and taste the broth, adjusting the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon if desired, to brighten the flavors.
    1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts)
  8. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or herbs for a burst of color and freshness.
    1 lb shredded chicken (thighs or breasts)
  9. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy the cozy, nourishing goodness of this simple homemade chicken soup.

Notes

Feel free to customize with noodles, rice, or additional vegetables. For a richer broth, add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan at the end.