Fresh Chicken Soup from Scratch Recipe

Name: Fresh Chicken Soup from Scratch Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs); 8 cups of water; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover the delightful taste of homemade chicken soup using fresh ingredients. This nourishing recipe is perfect for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:01:07.477Z

This Fresh Chicken Soup from Scratch Recipe is a comforting classic that warms the soul. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it's an ideal dish for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome flavors that remind you of home
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies
Perfect for meal prep and storing for later

      

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of homemade chicken soup. It's a dish that not only warms your body but also nourishes your soul. The rich aroma of simmering chicken and fresh vegetables fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience that brings families together, especially on chilly days or when someone needs a little extra care.

Unlike store-bought options, homemade chicken soup allows you to control the ingredients. You can choose organic chicken, fresh vegetables, and even add your favorite herbs. This customization ensures that every spoonful is packed with wholesome goodness and flavor. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into your soup gives you peace of mind, especially when it comes to dietary restrictions or preferences.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and herbs creates a hearty meal that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth, while vegetables like carrots and celery are loaded with vitamins A and C, boosting your immune system.

Additionally, homemade chicken soup is often recommended for its healing properties. The warm broth can help soothe sore throats, provide hydration, and may even help alleviate cold symptoms. The natural nutrients in the ingredients work together to promote overall well-being, making it a perfect dish for recovery or just a cozy night in.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, chicken soup stores beautifully. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for several months, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Just make sure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat. If frozen, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You may want to add a splash of water or broth while reheating to restore its original consistency. With these tips, you can savor the comforting taste of homemade chicken soup even on the busiest of days.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
8 cups of water
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, combine the whole chicken and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Add Vegetables

Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 60 minutes.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Finish the Soup

Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add chopped parsley, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken on hand, you can skip the initial cooking step. Just add the shredded chicken to the pot with the vegetables and broth, and simmer until the flavors meld together.

What vegetables can I add to the soup? The beauty of chicken soup is its versatility. Feel free to include your favorite vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or dill for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or homemade rolls for a complete meal. A simple green salad can also complement the soup, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty dish.

For a more filling option, you can add noodles or rice directly into the soup. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as noodles will require a few extra minutes to become tender. This makes for a more substantial meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken. Just add it to the broth during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.