Boiled Chicken Soup Recipe

Boiled Chicken Soup Recipe is made with a whole chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, water or chicken broth, salt, and pepper. This hearty boiled chicken soup recipe creates a comforting dinner that takes about 2 hours to prepare and can serve up to 6 people.

Boiled Chicken Soup Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cleaned and trimmed
• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
• 2-3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
• 8 cups water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup egg noodles or rice
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn

Boiled Chicken Soup Instructions

1. Place the whole chicken in a large pot.
2. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and parsley to the pot.
3. Pour in 8 cups of water or chicken broth, making sure the chicken and vegetables are fully covered.
4. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
6. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
7. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate to cool slightly. Discard the bay leaf.
8. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.
9. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
10. If using egg noodles or rice, add them to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until tender.
11. If using frozen peas or corn, add them in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
12. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Recipe Tips

• Use a Flavorful Broth: Instead of plain water, use chicken broth or stock to boost the soup’s flavor. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought low-sodium versions work well too.
• Sauté Vegetables First: Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the pot. This step caramelizes the vegetables and adds a richer, deeper flavor to the soup.
• Skim the Surface: During the simmering process, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This helps keep the broth clear and improves the overall taste.

How To Store Boiled Chicken Soup

Refrigerate: Allow the boiled chicken soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer the soup to an airtight container or cover the pot with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup. First, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Boiled Chicken Soup

On the Stovetop: Pour the leftover soup into a pot and heat over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the soup is hot throughout. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on the quantity.

In the Microwave: Transfer a portion of the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

In the Slow Cooker: Place the soup in the slow cooker and cover with the lid. Set the slow cooker to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through.

What To Serve Boiled Chicken Soup

Boiled chicken soup pairs well with crusty bread, fresh salad, grilled cheese sandwiches, and garlic bread. It can also be served alongside rice, egg noodles, crackers, and roasted vegetables for a more satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the soup richer in flavor?

For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of water. You can also sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil before adding them to the pot. Adding a splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce can also enhance the flavor.

What should I do if the soup is too salty?

If your soup turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding a bit of water or low-sodium chicken broth. Adding a peeled potato to the pot and letting it cook for a while can also help absorb excess salt.

How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry made of cornstarch and water, or blend some of the soup with an immersion blender to give it a creamier texture. Another option is to add cooked rice or noodles directly to the soup.

Try more recipes:

• Authentic Japanese Miso Soup Recipe
• Houlihan’s Baked Potato Soup Recipe
• Grouse Recipe Cream Mushroom Soup Recipe