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Hearty Slow-Simmered Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is built around a slow-simmered broth that develops deep flavor and richness from whole chicken or chicken parts. Tossed with fresh vegetables and herbs, it achieves a comforting, rustic texture with tender meat and a clear, aromatic broth. The final dish is a warm, inviting bowl perfect for cozy weekends or comforting recovery meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken or chicken parts with bones preferably a mix for richer flavor
  • 2 medium carrots roughly chopped
  • 2 stalks celery roughly chopped
  • 1 large onion roughly chopped
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper start with modest amounts and adjust
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice at the end

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Skimmer or slotted spoon
  • Sharp Knife
  • Fine strainer
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Place the whole chicken or chicken parts into a large stockpot and cover with about 2 liters of cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the water to just bubble.
  2. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface in the first 10 minutes, using a skimmer or slotted spoon, to keep the broth clear and clean.
  3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and sprigs of thyme along with the bay leaves into the pot. These vegetables will infuse the broth with flavor as they cook.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and gently simmer the broth for about 1.5 hours, until the chicken falls off the bones and the broth becomes rich and fragrant.
  5. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Strain the broth through a fine sieve into another pot if you prefer a clear soup, or leave the vegetables for a more rustic look.
  6. Shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding bones and skin, then return the shredded meat into the pot with the broth.
  7. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper gradually, adjusting to your preference. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup to add brightness and uplift the flavors.
  8. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
  9. Serve the hot, aromatic chicken soup in bowls, ideally with crusty bread or noodles on the side for a complete comforting meal.

Notes

You can customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. For a heartier version, toss in cooked noodles or rice before serving.