There’s something magical about a pot of chicken soup simmering on the stove. The gentle bubble, the steam curling into the kitchen air, and that unmistakable aroma of comfort, it always makes me feel like home.
My grandmother used to say, “There’s no heartbreak or head cold that a bowl of chicken soup can’t fix,” and honestly, I think she was right.
This easy chicken soup recipe is the one I turn to again and again when someone’s feeling under the weather, when the days get chilly, or when I just need something warm and nourishing. It’s simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying, the kind of soup that wraps you up like a blanket.
Perfect for cozy nights in, sick days, or family dinners, this recipe balances tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and rich broth into one soothing bowl.
You can make it ahead, freeze it for later, or keep it simmering on a Sunday afternoon while the house fills with the comforting scent of garlic, thyme, and love.
Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Sauté the aromatics. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and the onion turns translucent.
- Add the garlic and herbs. Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, this builds the flavor base.
- Add the chicken and liquids. Nestle the chicken pieces into the pot, then pour in chicken broth and water. Add the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 35–40 minutes.
- Shred the chicken. Remove chicken pieces from the pot and shred with two forks. Discard bones and return the meat to the soup.
- Optional noodles or rice. If using egg noodles, stir them into the simmering broth and cook according to package directions (usually 7–8 minutes). For rice, stir in pre-cooked rice near the end.
- Finish and taste. Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning, add salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
About the Recipe
This is a foolproof chicken soup that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, even though it comes together in about an hour. It’s made with bone-in chicken for that deep, flavorful broth, plus fresh vegetables and simple herbs you probably already have in your kitchen.
What makes this recipe special is the balance: not too salty, not too heavy, just perfectly seasoned and soul-warming. You can keep it classic or dress it up, add noodles, rice, or even a squeeze of lemon for a fresh twist.
It’s also naturally dairy-free and packed with protein and veggies, making it a go-to for anyone looking for a healthy, comforting meal.
This recipe serves 6–8 people, making it perfect for families or meal prep. Double it if you want extra to freeze, you’ll be so glad you did!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1 cup egg noodles or cooked rice for serving
- Optional garnish: extra parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics.
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and the onion turns translucent. - Add the garlic and herbs.
Stir in the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, this quick step builds deep flavor right from the start. - Add the chicken and liquids.
Nestle the chicken pieces into the pot, then pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 35–40 minutes. - Shred the chicken.
Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred them with two forks. Discard any bones and return the meat to the soup. - Optional noodles or rice.
If you’d like to add egg noodles, stir them into the simmering broth and cook according to package directions (usually about 7–8 minutes). For rice, stir in pre-cooked rice near the end. - Finish and taste.
Stir in fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning, a pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon brightens everything. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Tip: The broth should look clear, not cloudy. Keep the simmer gentle to avoid over-cooking the chicken or vegetables.
Tips for Success
The secret to amazing chicken soup is patience, but not hours of it. Letting the broth simmer gently instead of boiling keeps it clear and rich. A rolling boil can make it cloudy and toughen the chicken.
Choosing bone-in chicken thighs adds unbeatable depth of flavor. The collagen from the bones gives the broth that silky mouthfeel you just can’t get from boneless cuts. If you only have breasts, that’s fine too, just simmer a bit less to keep them tender.
For extra richness, you can toss in a small piece of parmesan rind or a splash of white wine as it simmers. It’s not traditional, but it elevates the flavor beautifully. And always taste before serving, your soup may need a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon to wake everything up.
What Goes Well With It
A warm bowl of this chicken soup practically begs for something cozy on the side. I love serving it with thick slices of buttered sourdough bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every last drop.
On lighter days, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette makes the perfect complement.
If you’re serving it as a family dinner, add a side of roasted potatoes or simple grilled cheese sandwiches, the combination of creamy melted cheese and savory broth is pure nostalgia.
For a relaxing evening, try pairing your soup with a cup of chamomile or green tea. And if you’re under the weather, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little heat, it clears the sinuses and soothes the soul.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
This chicken soup isn’t just delicious; it’s genuinely good for you. The broth helps keep you hydrated, while the chicken provides lean protein that supports your immune system.
Carrots and celery bring fiber and vitamins, while garlic offers natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.
Unlike many canned soups, this version is lower in sodium and free from additives. You control what goes in, only clean, wholesome ingredients. The olive oil provides healthy fats that make the dish satisfying without being heavy.
Eating soup regularly can also help with portion control and digestion, thanks to its high water content and nutrient density. It’s a feel-good, body-kind meal that’s just as restorative as it is comforting.
How to Store & Reheat
Chicken soup stores beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so the next day’s bowl might be even better.
For longer storage, freeze in single portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave a little space at the top of each container for expansion. If you’re adding noodles, it’s best to store or freeze them separately so they don’t get soggy.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming. In a pinch, microwave individual servings in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through. If it thickens during storage, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to that perfect consistency.
Closing Personal Touch
Every time I make this soup, I’m reminded of quiet afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, the sound of her spoon tapping the pot, the soft hum of her radio, and that warm, savory smell that meant everything would be okay.
Now, when my own family gathers around the table with steaming bowls and fresh bread, I feel that same comfort. It’s more than a recipe, it’s a ritual of care and connection.
Whether you make it for someone you love or just to treat yourself after a long day, this chicken soup is a little reminder that the simplest meals often hold the most heart. So grab your pot, chop your veggies, and let your kitchen fill with the aroma of something truly timeless.
