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Hearty Winter Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made by gently simmering chicken thighs with carrots, onions, and garlic in flavorful broth until tender and falling apart. The soup develops a clear, aromatic broth with soft vegetables and shredded chicken, finished with bright lemon juice and fresh herbs for a warm, inviting appearance and texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs bone-in, skinless preferred
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 each lemon zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and prep the vegetables by peeling and chopping the carrots, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic. This makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
  2. Place the large pot on the stove over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped onions and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and smell sweet, about 8 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for another minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the chicken thighs to the broth, making sure they are submerged.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for about 45 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the top and stir occasionally to keep everything cooking evenly.
  6. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred the meat with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup, stirring to combine.
  7. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup and add lemon zest. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon if desired.
  8. Chop the fresh parsley and thyme, then sprinkle over the soup for a burst of freshness and color. Let the soup rest for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
  9. Serve the steaming, hearty soup in bowls, making sure each has plenty of shredded chicken, vegetables, and a bright, fragrant broth. Enjoy the cozy comfort!

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a bay leaf during simmering or try different herbs like rosemary. Adjust lemon and herbs to taste for a bright, personalized finish.