Grandma's Comforting Chicken Soup 🍲🐔

This delightful chicken soup recipe is a family favorite, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. Its warm and hearty flavors will wrap you up like a cozy blanket! Easy to make, you can toss in seasonal veggies or whatever you have on hand. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and spices! 🌿✨

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces
• 8 cups of water
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup of noodles or rice
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley)
• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken pieces and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.

🥄 Skimming off any foam that rises to the top will give you a clearer broth. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

2. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

3. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, shred the meat from the bones and discard the bones.

4. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot. If you're adding noodles or rice, toss them in now and cook until tender.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a fresh finish, sprinkle with herbs or a little lemon juice before serving.

🧊 Storing leftovers? This soup freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll last about 3 months in the freezer.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or beans and use vegetable broth to create a hearty veggie soup.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Herbed Heaven: Fresh herbs can be added at the end for a vibrant flavor. Try dill or basil!
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving for a rich and creamy version.

Get ready to savor every spoonful of this soul-warming soup! Enjoy with a crusty bread or grilled cheese for a complete meal. 🍞🧀