Classic Chicken Soup

Cozy up with this classic chicken soup recipe. It has simple ingredients, hearty flavours, and comfort in every bowl.

Yields: 1 large pot (about 8 cups)

Servings: 8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

• Cut into pieces one whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds).

• 10 cups water

• Two large onions, chopped

• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

• Three large carrots, peeled and sliced

• Three celery stalks, sliced

• 2-3 bay leaves

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• 1 tsp dried dill (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Broth:

   • In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the top.

   • Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the chopped onions, minced garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and parsley.

   • Cover and simmer for about 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

2. Remove the Chicken:

   • Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and discard the bones.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

   • Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot and continue to simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the Chicken Back:

   • Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If you're adding noodles or rice, do so at this point. Cook until the noodles or rice are tender, about 10-12 minutes.

5. Season and Serve:

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves.

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips:

• You can add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or corn for added flavour and texture.

• Add a bouillon cube or a teaspoon of chicken base if you prefer a richer broth.

Enjoy your homemade classic chicken soup!