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Homestyle Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made by simmering bone-in or boneless chicken pieces with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and broth. The final dish features tender shredded chicken, soft vegetables, and a clear, flavorful broth, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon. It’s a cozy, wholesome meal that highlights simple ingredients cooked with patience and care.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Home-style
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1-2 pounds chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless) preferably organic
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 large carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 8 cups water or homemade broth
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • a handful fresh parsley chopped, added at the end
  • a few sprigs fresh thyme added during simmering
  • a drizzle olive oil or butter for sautéing

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Tongs
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and tools to start. Chop the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and set everything nearby.
  2. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil or butter. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces and sear until golden on the outside, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté until fragrant and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Pour in the water or broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the thyme sprigs for flavor. Return the chicken to the pot, partially submerged.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer gently uncovered for about 1 hour, skimming any foam that appears on the surface to keep the broth clear.
  6. Once the chicken is tender and easily shredded, remove it from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
  7. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or a knife, then return it to the soup.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup to brighten the flavors, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. Stir in chopped parsley for a splash of freshness.
  10. Let the soup rest off the heat for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and serve hot with crusty bread if desired.

Notes

For an even richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth and bone-in chicken. Adjust seasoning and lemon to your taste for a perfect balance of savory and bright notes.