Soup > Chicken Soups

Classic Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 onions, chopped
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 10 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, chopped

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Ladle
- Strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft.
3. Add chicken pieces, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Remove chicken pieces from the pot and let them cool.
7. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred it.
8. Discard the bones and skin.
9. Strain the soup through a fine-mesh strainer.
10. Return the soup to the pot and add the shredded chicken, parsley, and thyme.
11. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer over low heat.
Serving size:
Makes 8 servings.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 28g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chicken can be substituted with turkey or beef.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Fresh parsley and thyme can be substituted with dried herbs.

Variations:
- Add noodles or rice to make it a heartier meal.
- Add corn, peas, or green beans for extra vegetables.
- Add ginger and soy sauce for an Asian twist.

Tips and Tricks:
- Skim the fat off the top of the soup for a healthier option.
- Use a rotisserie chicken to save time.

Storage Instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over low heat until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.

Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs
- Croutons

Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or chicken broth.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer for longer to reduce the liquid.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer promptly.

Food History:
- Chicken soup has been a popular dish for centuries and is often referred to as "Jewish penicillin" due to its reputation for healing properties.

Flavor Profiles:
- Savory, comforting, and aromatic.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or as a starter.

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Taste: Savory, Comforting, Herby, Rich, Hearty