Description
Rustic Chicken Soup is a hearty, homemade classic filled with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting, nourishing bowl of warmth, this soup is as satisfying as it is simple.
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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until beginning to soften, about 5–6 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken, chicken broth, potatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken and potatoes are tender.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
- Add peas, corn, or green beans if using; simmer another 5 minutes.
- Discard bay leaves, stir in fresh parsley, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time; add during the last 10 minutes.
- Add egg noodles or rice to make it heartier.
- Stir in cream or coconut milk for a creamy version.
- Add lemon juice or red pepper flakes for extra brightness or heat.
- Freezes well—cool completely before storing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
