There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken soup on a chilly evening. This recipe elevates the classic comfort food, using juicy drumsticks for intensely flavorful broth and tender, succulent chicken. It's a perfect example of how easy healthy meals can be, perfect for a quick dinner, and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes. This simple chicken soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite, showcasing the beauty of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Broth
Start by rinsing the chicken drumsticks under cold water. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken drumsticks, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, water, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Simmering the Soup
Bring the mixture 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 and easily pulls away from the bone. This slow simmering extracts maximum flavor from the chicken and vegetables.
Step 3: Shredding the Chicken
Remove the chicken drumsticks from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 4: Adding Noodles and Chicken
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
Step 5: Serving Your Delicious Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade chicken soup!
Tips for the Best Chicken Soup:
- For a richer broth, roast the chicken drumsticks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes before adding them to the pot.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced potatoes, green beans, or corn, to customize your soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chicken Soup: Stir in the juice of half a lemon at the end of cooking for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables: Add a variety of vegetables like peas, corn, green beans, or diced potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used. However, a serving of this chicken soup is generally a good source of protein and provides a decent amount of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredients and serving size.
This easy recipe for chicken soup with drumsticks is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also simple to make. Enjoy this comforting and healthy meal whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl!