Ingredients
Scale
For the Broth:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces
- 10 cups water (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Soup:
- 1 cup egg noodles (optional, for a heartier soup)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Juice of 1 lemon (for added brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in onions, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavorful.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken pieces and let them cool slightly. Discard the bones and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Finish the Soup: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If using noodles, add them now and cook for another 10 minutes until tender. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice for a burst of brightness.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair with crusty bread for an extra comforting meal.
Notes
- For the Richest Broth: Simmer the soup low and slow for maximum flavor extraction.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the egg noodles for rice or gluten-free noodles.
- Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Substitute noodles with zucchini noodles or omit them entirely.
- Storage Tips:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Flavor Variations:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for extra aroma.
- For a creamy version, mix in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg