Are you feeling under the weather? Or maybe you just need a warm hug in a bowl? Then look no further! This chicken soup recipe, affectionately known as "Jewish penicillin," is the ultimate comfort food and a delicious remedy for what ails you. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a healthy meal that's surprisingly quick to make. It’s one of the best recipes for a reason – it's simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 12 cups water
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta) – optional
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Broth
- Place the chicken and water in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through. Skimming off any foam that rises to the surface during the simmering process will help create a clearer broth.
Step 2: Shredding the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 3: Adding Vegetables and Seasonings
- Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, dill, parsley, and bay leaf to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
Step 4: Incorporating Pasta (Optional)
- If using pasta, add the ditalini during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time, or according to package directions.
Step 5: Combining and Serving
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh dill and parsley.
Tips for the Best Chicken Soup:
- For a richer broth, roast the chicken before simmering it.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or leeks.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for extra brightness.
- For a heartier soup, add some cooked noodles or dumplings.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Chicken Noodle Soup: Substitute egg noodles or your favorite type of noodle for the ditalini.
- Vegetarian Chicken Soup: Replace the chicken with vegetable broth and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy chicken soup recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy meals you can make at home. It's a quick dinner idea that's also a great way to use up leftover chicken. Enjoy this classic comfort food – your body (and taste buds) will thank you! This recipe is one of the best recipes for soothing a cold or simply enjoying a warm, flavorful meal. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.