Name: Rustic Chicken Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 6 cups chicken broth; 2–3 potatoes (Yukon gold or red), diced; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional: 1 cup peas, corn, or green beans

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Rustic Chicken Soup is one of those cozy, homemade dishes that I always turn to when I need warmth and comfort. It’s hearty, nourishing, and full of wholesome ingredients — tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmered together to create a broth that tastes like home. I love how it feels both simple and deeply satisfying, like something that’s been simmering on the stove all day, even when it hasn’t.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s rustic in the best way — unfussy, earthy, and full of natural flavor. The broth is rich but light, and every spoonful has the perfect balance of tender chicken, vegetables, and herbs. It’s perfect for cold days, sick days, or just when I want something homemade and wholesome. It’s also great for meal prep since it keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Rustic Chicken Soup

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
yellow onion, chopped
carrots, sliced
celery stalks, chopped
garlic, minced
boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
chicken broth
potatoes, diced
bay leaves
fresh thyme (or dried if that’s what I have)
salt and black pepper
fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
optional: peas, corn, or green beans for extra texture

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
I add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until they start to soften.
I stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Next, I add the chicken, broth, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
I remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
I let it simmer for another few minutes so everything comes together beautifully.
I finish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes me around 15 minutes to prep and about 35 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in under an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add a handful of egg noodles or rice to make it heartier. I’ve also used leftover roasted chicken when I’m short on time. For a creamier version, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk near the end. When I want a more vibrant flavor, I add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.

Storage/Reheating

I let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When I reheat it on the stovetop, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it’s thickened. It tastes just as good — sometimes even better — the next day. Rustic Chicken Soup

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?

Yes, I often do! I just add the shredded rotisserie chicken in the last 10 minutes of simmering to warm it through.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I add everything except the parsley to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Then I shred the chicken and stir it back in before serving.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I like using Yukon gold or red potatoes because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes perfectly. I just cool it completely first and store it in freezer-safe containers.

How can I make this soup more flavorful?

I sometimes add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of chicken bouillon to deepen the flavor. Fresh herbs also make a big difference.

Conclusion

Rustic Chicken Soup is everything I love about homemade cooking — simple, hearty, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and makes the whole kitchen smell amazing. I love how adaptable it is, and no matter how many times I make it, it always feels like a warm, nourishing hug in a bowl.