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Hearty Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is made by simmering a whole chicken with aromatic vegetables and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful broth. The process involves sautéing vegetables, gentle simmering to tenderize the meat, and straining and shredding the chicken for a comforting, rustic final dish with clear broth and tender ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: comfort food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken preferably with bones for flavor
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 large carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • Optional to taste noodles or rice for serving

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Place the whole chicken or chicken parts into a large, heavy-bottomed pot, then cover with cold water.
  2. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to keep the broth clear.
  3. While the chicken simmers, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and release a fragrant aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the simmering chicken, allowing their flavors to meld into the broth.
  5. Let everything simmer gently for about 1.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and falling apart, filling the house with a warm, savory smell.
  6. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer, discarding the solids.
  7. While the broth cools slightly, shred the chicken meat, discarding bones and skin, then return the shredded meat to the strained broth.
  8. Add chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the broth, then gently simmer for another 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
  9. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed; squeeze in fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  10. If desired, cook noodles or rice separately, then add to the soup just before serving for added heartiness.
  11. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting, clear broth filled with tender chicken and vegetables.

Notes

For a richer flavor, roast the chicken slightly before adding to the water. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables for variation.