As the chill of winter wraps around your home, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a bubbling pot of homemade chicken soup on the stove. This Cozy Chicken Soup with Fresh Herbs is just what you need to chase away the cold while nourishing your soul. Packed with tender poached chicken, a vibrant mix of hearty winter vegetables, and fragrant herbs, it’s the perfect antidote to those dreary days. One of the best perks? It’s not just a comforting bowl of goodness; it’s also a nutritious choice that supports your health without compromising on flavor. Plus, it comes together in a snap, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Are you ready to create a bowl of love and warmth that will become a family favorite?
Why is this chicken soup a must-try?
Nourishing Comfort: The homemade chicken soup is the ultimate remedy for chilly days, boiling over with comforting warmth and rejuvenating flavors that soothe the soul.
Quick to Make: In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs, making each bowl uniquely yours. It can even adapt to seasonal produce!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether serving friends or family, this hearty soup is sure to impress. Don’t forget to pair it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal!
For another delightful comfort food, check out my recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup, a classic favorite that combines rich flavors with heartiness.
Homemade Chicken Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Provides healthy fats and enhances flavor.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with sweet potatoes for a different taste.
- Parsnips – Contributes a sweet, earthy flavor; can be replaced with turnips if needed.
- Celery – Adds crunch and a fresh flavor; no substitutes necessary.
- Onion – Provides foundational flavor; yellow or white onion works best.
- Leek – Adds a mild onion-like flavor that enhances the soup; substitute with more onions if unavailable.
- Garlic – Delivers robust flavor; can be omitted for a milder taste.
For Seasoning
- Kosher Salt – Balances flavors; adjust according to taste preference.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth; use white pepper for a subtler flavor.
For the Protein and Broth
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The primary protein source; can substitute with thighs for a richer flavor.
- Fresh Thyme – Enhances aroma and flavor; dried thyme can be used in a pinch (use ½ teaspoon).
- Fresh Tarragon – Provides a unique herbal note that elevates the soup; if unavailable, use dill.
- Bay Leaf – Adds depth to the broth; omit if using a slow cooker.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – The soup’s liquid base; homemade or store-bought is ideal.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish and freshness; can substitute with cilantro for a different flavor.
With these delightful ingredients, your homemade chicken soup will be a warm and nourishing hug in a bowl, perfect for those cold winter nights!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Chicken Soup with Fresh Herbs
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, parsnips, celery, leeks, and onions. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Once fragrant, stir in minced garlic along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
Step 2: Poach Chicken
Add boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, along with fresh thyme, tarragon, bay leaf, and low-sodium chicken broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, turning white and tender.
Step 3: Shred Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup pot, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld into your hearty chicken soup.
Step 4: Serve
Remove the bay leaf and any stems of the herbs from the soup. Ladle the cozy chicken soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to enhance this nourishing meal.
What to Serve with Cozy Chicken Soup with Fresh Herbs
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a table filled with comforting dishes that elevate a cozy chicken soup experience.
- Crusty Bread: Its hearty texture complements the warmth of the soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up that savory broth.
- Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup while providing a pop of color.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Their buttery, garlicky flavor pairs beautifully, turning a simple meal into an indulgent feast that’s hard to resist.
- Roasted Vegetables: Earthy and sweet, they enhance the soup’s heartiness; add seasonal favorites like Brussels sprouts or root veggies for added depth.
- Cheesy Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the melty cheese and crunchy bread amplify the nostalgia of comforting meals from childhood.
- Apple Crisp: This warm, spiced dessert rounds out the meal perfectly, providing a touch of sweetness after every delightful spoonful of soup.
- Hot Apple Cider: Sip on this warming drink for a cozy beverage that ties together the flavors of fall and winter.
Enhance your dining experience by mixing and matching these comforting options to create a memorable meal around your homemade chicken soup!
Make Ahead Options
These cozy chicken soup preparations are perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, parsnips, celery, onion, and leek) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, poach the chicken and shred it before refrigerating—this can last for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade chicken soup, simply heat a pot, sauté the prepped veggies for a few minutes, add your prepared chicken and broth, and simmer until warm. This way, your soup will remain just as delicious and nourishing, providing a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Storage Tips for Homemade Chicken Soup
Fridge: Store your homemade chicken soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain its quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze soup in suitable containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Separation Tip: Soups may thicken in the fridge; if so, add a splash of broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Helpful Tricks for Homemade Chicken Soup
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Perfect Chicken: Always poach chicken gently; high heat can dry it out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy.
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Herb Substitutions: If fresh herbs aren’t available, use dried herbs but start with half the amount, as they’re more concentrated in flavor.
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Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in any extra veggies like peas, spinach, or zucchini. They not only enhance flavor but also increase nutrition in your homemade chicken soup.
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Storage Savvy: To maintain freshness, store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.
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Flavor Development: Allow the soup to sit for a while before serving. The flavors blend beautifully, making each spoonful even more delicious!
Homemade Chicken Soup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this cozy chicken soup your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute any creamy additions with coconut milk for a subtly sweet flavor twist.
- Vegan-Friendly: Swap chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version bursting with nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to introduce some delightful heat!
- Herb Swap: Experiment with others like basil or oregano instead of tarragon for a different aromatic experience.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale for added color and nutrients, making each bowl even more wholesome.
- Zesty Citrus: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice just before serving for a bright, fresh accent that elevates the flavors beautifully.
- Nutty Texture: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top for a lovely crunch that contrasts with the soup’s warmth.
- Comforting Rice: Stir in some cooked rice or whole grains like farro to make it heartier and more filling.
If you love rich flavors in your meals, don’t miss out on my comforting Tuscan Chicken Soup, a delightful variation sure to impress!
Hearty Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the soup?
You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but I often recommend thighs for a richer flavor. They add moisture and a deeper taste to the soup. If you have leftover roast chicken, that can work wonderfully too!
How do I store leftover chicken soup?
Absolutely! Store your homemade chicken soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain its quality. I usually let it cool on the counter before transferring it to the fridge.
Can I freeze homemade chicken soup?
Yes, you can! For longer-term storage, freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. When freezing, leave a little space at the top of the container because the soup may expand as it freezes. For best results, freeze it without any noodles or rice added, as these can become mushy upon reheating.
What should I do if the soup is too salty?
Very good question! If your soup turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding a few cubed potatoes or a tablespoon of sugar to reduce the salinity. Just let it simmer for a bit until the flavors meld. If it’s still too salty, adding more water or broth can help dilute it as well.
Can I use other vegetables in chicken soup?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to toss in extra vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or even peas for added nutrition and flavor. I like adding kale or spinach right before serving for a nutritional boost.
Is homemade chicken soup safe for pets?
Not typically. While some ingredients like chicken and carrots are safe for pets, others like onions and garlic can be harmful. Always ensure that your furry friends stick to their own diets. If you’d like to share a bit of the broth, make sure it’s free of any onions, garlic, or added salt!
Hearty Homemade Chicken Soup for Cozy Winter Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add diced carrots, parsnips, celery, leeks, and onions. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Once fragrant, stir in minced garlic along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
- Add boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, along with fresh thyme, tarragon, bay leaf, and low-sodium chicken broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, turning white and tender.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup pot, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld into your hearty chicken soup.
- Remove the bay leaf and any stems of the herbs from the soup. Ladle the cozy chicken soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to enhance this nourishing meal.