Comfort in a Bowl: Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a tradition, a remedy, and a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you're nursing a cold, warming up on a chilly evening, or just longing for a taste of home, chicken soup always seems to hit the spot. Its savory aroma wafting through the kitchen, the gentle simmer of broth and herbs, and the familiar taste of tender chicken and vegetables all come together to create a sense of peace and nourishment.

What makes it even more special is when it's made from scratch. Using homemade chicken stock transforms a simple recipe into a rich, flavorful experience that’s full of love and care. And even if you're using a high-quality store-bought broth, this soup will still feel like a cozy, satisfying treat.

This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious—whether you like it with noodles, rice, or just a hearty blend of vegetables, it’s easy to make it your own. So grab your favorite soup pot, and let’s make a bowl of comfort you’ll want to return to again and again.

Classic Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 3 celery stalks, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftovers work great!)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)

• 1 bay leaf

• Optional: 1½ cups egg noodles or rice

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables:In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add stock and seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock and stir in salt, pepper, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.

3. Add noodles or rice (optional): If using noodles or rice, add them now and cook until tender (about 8–10 minutes for noodles, 15–20 minutes for rice).

4. Stir in the chicken: Add the shredded chicken and let it simmer for another 5–10 minutes to heat through and let the flavors blend.

5. Taste and adjust: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips and Variations:

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.

• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

• Use fresh herbs like dill or rosemary to enhance flavor.

• Freeze leftovers in portioned containers for an easy future meal.

Final Thoughts:

Homemade chicken soup is more than just a meal—it's a memory, a remedy, and a reminder that the simplest dishes can be the most comforting. Whether you’re feeding your family, recovering from a cold, or just embracing a cozy evening, this recipe is one to keep in your rotation all year long.

Do you have your own spin on chicken soup? Share it in the comments—we’d love to hear how you make it your own!