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Hearty Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is a comforting, nourishing dish made with tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful homemade broth. Slow simmered to meld flavors and produce melt-in-your-mouth meat, it features vibrant greens and a bright citrus finish for a wholesome, satisfying final bowl.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs preferably skin-on for richness
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 4 cups homemade chicken stock or store-bought quality
  • 2 cups leafy greens kale, spinach, or chard, roughly chopped
  • 1 inch fresh ginger sliced thin
  • 1 whole lemon for juice and zest
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Begin by heating your large pot over medium heat, then add a splash of oil. Sauté sliced ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger slices, cooking until onions turn translucent and the kitchen fills with a warm aroma, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add chopped carrots and celery to the pot, stirring to coat them in the aromatic mixture. Cook for about 8 minutes until vegetables soften slightly and release their sweet scents.
  3. Pour in the chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface to keep the broth clear and clean.
  4. Place the bone-in chicken thighs into the simmering broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
  5. Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Shred the meat with two forks, discarding the bones and skin if desired.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. During the last 5 minutes of simmering, add your chopped greens and cook until wilted and vibrant.
  7. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice into the soup for brightness, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let sit for a minute to meld flavors.
  8. Ladle the hot, nourishing soup into bowls, ensuring each serving includes tender chicken, flavorful broth, and colorful greens. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Feel free to customize the greens or add a dash of hot sauce for extra warmth. For an even richer broth, simmer the chicken bones longer or add extra herbs.