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Bowl of easy chicken soup with vegetables and herbs

Simple Chicken Soup

A comforting and nourishing chicken soup that evokes memories of family gatherings, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're under the weather.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil The foundation of flavor.
  • 1 large onion, diced Adds a sweet, aromatic scent.
  • 1 cup celery, chopped Adds a refreshing crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, chopped Infuses the soup with warmth.
  • 4-8 cloves garlic, rough chopped Brings depth and savoriness.
  • 4 cups chicken broth or stock The heart of the soup.
  • 2 cups water Balances the broth.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 2 pieces bay leaves Imparts a subtle floral note.
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper Adds gentle heat.
  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless Juicy and tender.
  • to taste none lemon juice Brightens the flavors.
  • a pinch none chili flakes Adjust to tolerance.
  • none none scallions, cilantro, or Italian parsley Fresh herbs for garnish.
  • none none toasted sesame oil, optional Umami-rich finishing touch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, rough chopped garlic, and fresh ginger. Sauté until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Lower the heat and continue sautéing until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes more.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Season with salt, white pepper, and bay leaves.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
  3. To test if the chicken is cooked, use two forks to pull a piece apart; if it easily shreds and appears opaque, it's done.
  4. Shred the rest of the chicken and return it to the pot. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Final Touches
  1. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and taste the broth, adjusting saltiness if necessary.
  2. Ladle the soup on its own or over cooked rice or noodles.
  3. Garnish with scallions or cilantro, and drizzle with toasted sesame oil and chili flakes if desired.

Notes

For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste. You can also throw in leftover vegetables like carrots or peas. For creaminess, stir in coconut milk or cream.