Tag: Homemade Soup

A classic chicken soup recipe involves simmering chicken (breasts or thighs) with aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in a flavorful chicken broth. Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and bay leaves are added to create a deep, comforting flavor. This simple, nourishing combination is perfect for a cozy meal and is widely considered beneficial when feeling unwell.

A warm bowl of chicken soup is the perfect comfort food, especially on a chilly day. But if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by complex recipes or unsure how to achieve that perfect, rich flavor, you’re not alone. We believe making delicious, homemade chicken soup should be a simple and stress-free experience for everyone, regardless of your skill level.

That’s why we created the ultimate homemade chicken soup recipe. Our easy, step-by-step guide is designed for beginner-friendly recipes and busy home cooks. We’ll show you how to transform simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful, family-friendly meal using approachable cooking techniques. You’ll build confidence in the kitchen while creating a classic chicken noodle soup that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.

This comprehensive guide covers how to make a great chicken soup from scratch. It also provides helpful tips for making it your own, including how to easily turn it into a comforting chicken noodle soup. Let’s dive in and see why this is the best chicken soup recipe for beginners.

Why Is This The Best Chicken Soup Recipe for Beginners?

If you’re looking for an easy chicken soup recipe that delivers amazing flavor every time, you’ve found it. We know cooking can feel overwhelming, especially with recipes that use complicated steps or unusual ingredients. That’s not the case here. At Recipesmondial, our goal is to make home cooking enjoyable and help you feel confident in the kitchen. This recipe is designed with beginners in mind, using simple techniques and everyday ingredients to create a rich, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal.

Here’s what makes this recipe the perfect choice for beginners:

• Simple, Everyday Ingredients: This recipe uses ingredients you can easily find at any grocery store, making preparation quick and hassle-free. No specialty trips required.
• Clear, Step-by-Step Instructions: We break down every step into plain language, avoiding confusing culinary jargon. You’ll always know exactly what to do next, making it easy for anyone to follow along.
• Reliable & Consistent Results: Because this recipe has been thoroughly tested, it guarantees a delicious and flavorful meal. You can count on perfect chicken soup every time.
• Builds Confidence in the Kitchen: Successfully making a homemade chicken soup boosts your cooking confidence. You will learn fundamental techniques that apply to many other easy recipes.
• Highly Customizable & Versatile: Think of this basic recipe as a fantastic starting point. You can easily add your favorite vegetables, transform it into a classic chicken noodle soup, or make it creamy.
• Perfect for family-friendly meals: As a universal comfort food, chicken soup is ideal for busy families. This recipe provides a healthy, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dinner option.
• Reduces Mealtime Stress: Struggling to plan your next meal? This approachable recipe is a lifesaver, helping you get flavorful meals made easy.

This recipe will help you move from uncertainty to confidence in the kitchen. It’s more than just a chicken soup—it’s a stepping stone to a world of enjoyable home cooking. Welcome to Recipesmondial, where we believe cooking should always be simple, flavorful, and inspiring.

What Ingredients Do You Need for Homemade Chicken Soup?

The Best Chicken for Soup

Delicious homemade chicken soup starts with the right chicken—one that provides both rich flavor and tender meat. Our easy recipe focuses on simple-to-prepare cuts that guarantee amazing results every time.

Here are our top picks for the best chicken to use:

• Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: These are our top choice for a flavorful broth. As the soup simmers, the bones and skin release incredible depth and richness. The meat also becomes wonderfully tender and easy to shred, making this perfect for a classic, comforting chicken soup.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: For a quicker prep time, boneless thighs are an excellent option. They cook faster and are very easy to shred. While quicker, they still offer more flavor than chicken breast, making them a great choice for a simple dinner recipe.
• Whole Chicken (Cut into Pieces): For the most robust and complex flavor, nothing beats a whole chicken. Using a variety of cuts and bones creates a deeply satisfying and traditional homemade soup.

You can also use a combination of cuts. For instance, pairing bone-in thighs with a boneless breast gives you both deep flavor and lean meat. Our goal is to keep things simple, so you can make delicious soup without feeling overwhelmed.

Essential Aromatic Vegetables

A flavorful chicken soup starts with an aromatic vegetable base. These ingredients build a deep foundation of taste before you even add the chicken, making your broth rich and inviting.

You’ll need these essential vegetables for your homemade chicken soup:

• Yellow Onion: One medium yellow onion, chopped. When sautéed, onions add a sweet and savory depth that is fundamental to a good soup base.
• Carrots: Two large carrots, peeled and sliced or chopped. They contribute a subtle sweetness, vibrant color, and nutrients to your healthy meal.
• Celery Stalks: Two celery stalks, sliced or chopped. Celery adds a subtle, savory note that beautifully rounds out the flavor of the other vegetables.

This classic trio of vegetables is known as a “mirepoix,” and it creates a balanced and delicious foundation for your soup. To save time, you can even use a pre-chopped mirepoix mix from the grocery store.

Herbs and Seasonings for a Flavorful Broth

With your chicken and vegetables ready, it’s time for herbs and seasonings. These ingredients elevate your soup, infusing the broth with warmth, complexity, and the comforting flavor we all love.

Gather these herbs and seasonings for a truly memorable chicken soup:

• Garlic: Four cloves of garlic, minced. Fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic kick that is essential for a deep, savory broth.
• Dried Thyme: One teaspoon of dried thyme. Thyme offers an earthy, slightly minty note that pairs perfectly with chicken. It’s a classic herb for comforting dishes.
• Bay Leaf: Two dried bay leaves. Bay leaves contribute a subtle, almost floral flavor that enhances the overall savory quality of the broth. Remember to remove them before serving.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Salt and pepper are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors in the soup. Start with a generous pinch and add more as needed after tasting the broth.
• Chicken Broth or Stock: Eight cups of low-sodium chicken broth or stock. A good quality broth is the key to a flavorful soup, so choose one you enjoy.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A handful of fresh parsley, chopped. While optional, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor right before serving.

Together, these ingredients transform simple components into a rich and inviting soup. The most important step is to taste and adjust the seasonings as you cook. This ensures the final flavor is perfectly suited to your preferences.

How to Make Chicken Soup From Scratch (Step-by-Step)

Making chicken soup from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Our simple, step-by-step guide makes this classic dish approachable for everyone, so you can forget about complex recipes.

Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful, hearty homemade chicken soup that will impress your family and friends. This chicken soup recipe is perfect for beginners and designed for success.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

This initial step builds the foundation of flavor for your chicken soup. It’s often called creating an “aromatic” base.

1. Gather Your Aromatics: Have your chopped onions, carrots, and celery ready. These vegetables are essential for a rich broth.
2. Heat the Pot: Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
3. Sauté Gently: Add the chopped vegetables to the hot pot. Cook them slowly for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften without browning. This gentle process releases their sweet, earthy flavors.
4. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic during the final minute of cooking. This prevents it from burning while adding a wonderful depth to your soup.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step! Properly softening the vegetables makes a significant difference in the final taste of your homemade chicken soup.

Step 2: Poach and Shred the Chicken

Next, you’ll gently cook the chicken. This process not only yields tender meat but also begins to create a flavorful broth, a key part of this easy chicken soup recipe.

1. Add Chicken and Water: Place the chicken pieces (such as bone-in, skin-on thighs or a whole chicken) into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in enough cold water to cover the chicken completely.
2. Season Lightly: Add a pinch of salt and a few black peppercorns.
3. Gentle Simmer: Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, being careful not to let it boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface to keep your broth clear.
4. Cook Until Done: Simmer for 25-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165°F (74°C) ^[1].
5. Remove and Cool: Carefully transfer the cooked chicken from the pot to a cutting board and let it cool slightly.
6. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove and discard the skin and bones. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, then set it aside.

Helpful Hint: If you used bone-in chicken, consider adding the bones back to the pot for the next step to add even more richness to your broth.

Step 3: Simmer for Maximum Flavor

Now it’s time to transform the liquid into a robust, comforting broth. This step is all about developing deep, savory flavors.

1. Strain the Broth: Carefully pour the liquid from the pot through a fine-mesh sieve into a large, clean bowl. Discard the cooked vegetables from the sieve, as they have already given up their flavor.
2. Return Broth to Pot: Pour the clear, strained broth back into the empty pot.
3. Add Fresh Aromatics and Herbs: For extra flavor, you can add a fresh set of chopped carrots and celery to the broth, along with herbs like a few sprigs of thyme and a bay leaf.
4. Long, Slow Simmer: Bring the broth to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. A longer simmer allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the broth and add more salt and pepper as needed. A well-seasoned broth is the secret to an amazing chicken soup.

Meal Prep Tip: You can make the broth ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to finish the soup later.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

You’re in the final stretch! It’s time to bring all the delicious components together to finish your amazing homemade chicken soup.

1. Reintroduce Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the flavorful, simmering broth.
2. Heat Through: Let the soup gently heat for another 5-10 minutes, just until the chicken is warmed through.
3. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in a handful of freshly chopped parsley or dill right before serving to add a bright flavor and lovely aroma.
4. Serve Warm: Ladle the comforting chicken soup into bowls and enjoy immediately.

This easy chicken soup is perfect on its own. If you’re making chicken noodle soup, add cooked noodles at the very end or directly to each bowl to prevent them from becoming soggy. Enjoy this delicious, easy, family-friendly meal from Recipesmondial!

Helpful Tips for the Most Flavorful Soup

Making a truly delicious chicken soup is easier than you think—no gourmet chef skills required. With a few simple tricks, you can elevate your chicken soup recipe from good to extraordinary. These tips will help you create a rich, comforting, and flavorful bowl every time, without the stress of complex recipes.

• Start with Great Chicken and Bones: The foundation of any amazing homemade chicken noodle soup is the chicken itself.
  • For the deepest flavor, use a mix of chicken pieces. Bone-in, skin-on thighs, drumsticks, and even backs or wings work wonderfully.
  • Roasting these chicken pieces and bones before simmering creates a richer, more complex broth and adds incredible depth.
  • Alternatively, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver that adds excellent flavor, perfect for quick meals.
• Sauté Your Aromatics Thoroughly: Do not rush this step. The initial sauté of your vegetables—like onions, carrots, and celery—builds the soup’s flavor base.
  • Cook them gently in a little oil or butter until they soften and become fragrant and lightly golden. This process, called “sweating,” releases their natural sugars and deepens their taste.
  • This simple step makes a huge difference in the final taste of your chicken soup.
• Layer Your Herbs and Spices: Great flavor comes from more than just salt and pepper.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or bay leaves during the simmering process. You can tie them into a bundle with kitchen twine for easy removal.
  • A few whole black peppercorns, garlic cloves, or a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or marjoram will enhance the flavor.
  • For an extra boost, add a sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Patience is key for maximum flavor extraction.
  • After adding your chicken and liquids, bring the soup to a gentle simmer, but do not let it come to a rolling boil.
  • A slow, steady simmer for at least an hour (or longer for raw chicken and bones) allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. This gentle heat extracts more flavor from the ingredients than rapid boiling.
  • This process ensures a clear, flavorful broth rather than a cloudy one.
• Season as You Go (and at the End): Seasoning correctly is crucial for flavorful meals made easy.
  • Add a little salt when sautéing the vegetables and more when the chicken and broth go in.
  • Always taste your soup toward the end of cooking and adjust the salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed.
  • At the very end, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar can brighten all the flavors and add a lovely zest.
• Consider Finishing Touches: Small additions can make a big impact.
  • A swirl of high-quality olive oil or a knob of butter stirred in just before serving adds richness.
  • Freshly chopped herbs like chives or cilantro offer a burst of freshness and color.
  • If you are making chicken noodle soup, cook your noodles perfectly al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Following these beginner-friendly recipe tips will help you create a comforting bowl of chicken soup every time. This step-by-step cooking guidance is designed to make your home cooking journey more enjoyable, confident, and stress-free.

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

What Kind of Noodles Should You Use?

Adding noodles transforms chicken soup into the classic homemade version we all love. Choosing the right noodle is key to a satisfying bowl, as the best ones hold their texture and complement the broth.

Here are some excellent choices for your easy chicken noodle soup recipe:

• Egg Noodles: The traditional choice for a reason. Their tender texture absorbs the broth beautifully. Look for wide or medium egg noodles for a hearty feel.
• Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect if you prefer smaller bites. It cooks quickly and blends seamlessly into the soup.
• Ditalini: These tiny, tube-shaped noodles are another great option. Common in Italian wedding soup, they also work wonderfully in chicken soup.
• Acini di Pepe: Meaning “peppercorns” in Italian, these tiny pasta pieces create a delicate texture in the broth for an extra comforting feel.
• Thin Spaghetti or Vermicelli (broken): If you’re in a pinch, you can break thin spaghetti or vermicelli into shorter pieces. Keep in mind that they can become soft more quickly than other pasta types.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Many excellent gluten-free options are available, typically made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Just be sure to follow the package directions, as their cooking times can vary.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference. For the best result, aim for a pasta that won’t become mushy too quickly. This ensures a delightful texture in every spoonful of your homemade chicken noodle soup.

When to Add Noodles to the Soup

Perfectly cooked noodles are the hallmark of a great chicken noodle soup. To keep them from becoming overly soft or mushy, it’s essential to add them at the right time.

Follow these steps for flawless noodles in your chicken soup recipe:

1. Near the End of Cooking: Add your chosen noodles during the last 10-15 minutes of the soup’s simmering time. Always check the package for specific cooking instructions, as times can vary.
2. Simmer Gently: Once the noodles are in, let the soup simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until they are al dente—cooked through but still with a slight bite.
3. Taste and Adjust: Before taking the soup off the heat, taste a noodle to ensure it’s cooked perfectly. This is the best way to guarantee great texture for your easy recipes.

Pro Tip for Meal Prep and Leftovers: If you plan to have leftovers or are using meal prep ideas, cook the noodles separately. Boil them in salted water, drain, and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Store the noodles in a separate container and add them to individual servings of hot soup. This prevents them from soaking up broth and becoming mushy when reheated, ensuring every bowl of your flavorful meals made easy tastes fresh.

The same principle applies to an instant pot chicken noodle soup. Add the noodles after the main pressure cooking cycle is complete, then use the simmer function until they are tender. This prevents overcooking and ensures a wonderful texture in your beginner-friendly recipes.

How Do You Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Ready to make a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup even faster? Your Instant Pot is a game-changer. This brilliant kitchen tool transforms long-simmered recipes into quick meals, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love achieving a rich, flavorful soup in a fraction of the time. It’s the ideal solution for busy families or anyone seeking easy recipes without sacrificing taste.

Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is incredibly straightforward, making it a fantastic example of beginner-friendly recipes. This method combines cooking the chicken and building the broth into one efficient process. Say goodbye to being overwhelmed by complex recipes!

Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Speedy Soup

The Instant Pot simplifies the process of cooking healthy, tasty meals quickly. Its pressure cooking function infuses flavors deeply while tenderizing chicken rapidly, giving you a delicious, flavorful meal made easy.

• Saves Time: Chicken cooks significantly faster under pressure, which means less waiting for your delicious soup.
• One-Pot Wonder: Sautéing and cooking happen in a single pot, which dramatically reduces cleanup.
• Deep Flavor: Pressure cooking expertly melds ingredients, creating a rich and satisfying broth every time.
• Consistent Results: It reliably achieves perfectly cooked chicken and vegetables, so you can cook with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Here’s how to whip up a comforting bowl of homemade chicken soup using your Instant Pot. This simple dinner recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Sautéing Your Aromatics

Building a strong flavor base is key. Just like a traditional soup, this recipe starts with the good stuff!

1. Prepare the Pot: Plug in your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function on its normal setting.
2. Add Oil and Vegetables: Once the display reads “Hot,” add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Follow with 1 cup chopped yellow onion, 1 cup chopped carrots, and 1 cup chopped celery.
3. Sauté until Fragrant: Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.

Cooking the Chicken and Broth

Now it’s time to let the Instant Pot do its magic. This stage makes your broth incredibly flavorful.

1. Add Chicken and Liquids: Press “Cancel” to turn off the “Sauté” function. Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the pot. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
2. Seal and Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and ensure the steam release valve is in the “Sealing” position. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
3. Release Pressure: After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes (Natural Pressure Release). Then, carefully turn the steam release valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining steam (Quick Release).

Finishing with Noodles and Freshness

You’re almost there! The noodles cook directly in the flavorful broth, soaking up all the deliciousness.

1. Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Noodles: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Select the “Sauté” function to bring the soup to a boil. Add 2 cups of egg noodles and cook for 5-7 minutes, or according to package directions. Stir often to prevent sticking.
3. Stir in Herbs and Serve: Turn off the Instant Pot by pressing “Cancel.” Stir in ¼ cup of fresh chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed before serving your delicious chicken noodle soup.

Expert Tips for Your Best Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Want to elevate your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup? These simple tips will help you create a truly spectacular meal, completely stress-free.

• Chicken Choice: For the most flavor and moisture, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. However, chicken breasts also work well if you prefer leaner meat.
• Noodle Timing is Key: Always add noodles *after* the pressure cooking cycle is complete. Cooking them under pressure will result in a mushy texture. Use the “Sauté” setting at the end for perfect noodles.
• Boost the Flavor: For an even richer broth, add a Parmesan rind to the pot during the pressure cooking stage. Be sure to remove it before adding the noodles.
• Vary Your Veggies: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking the noodles.
• Meal Prep Idea: If you plan to freeze the soup, cook it without the noodles. You can then add and cook fresh noodles when reheating, which preserves their texture. This is a great meal prep tip!
• Don’t Overfill: Always respect the “Max Fill” line inside your Instant Pot. Overfilling can interfere with the cooking process and may be dangerous.

This chicken soup recipe is designed for success, showing just how approachable home cooking can be. With every delicious batch, you’ll gain more confidence in the kitchen!

Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Your Soup

How to Store Leftover Chicken Soup

Making a large batch of homemade chicken soup is a great meal prep strategy. Proper storage is key to keeping your soup fresh and safe to eat. Follow these steps for the best results.

• Cool Quickly: To cool your soup safely, never leave it on the counter for more than two hours. For faster cooling, divide the warm soup into smaller, shallow containers.
• Choose Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled soup into clean, airtight containers. Using glass or BPA-free plastic will prevent air exposure and keep your soup tasting fresh.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Place the sealed containers in the refrigerator right away. Properly stored, chicken soup will last for 3 to 4 days ^[2].

Can You Freeze Chicken Soup?

Absolutely! Freezing chicken soup is an excellent way to extend its shelf life. This meal prep tip is perfect for busy weeks—simply make a double batch and freeze half for a future meal.

• Cool Completely: Always ensure the soup is fully cooled before you freeze it. Placing warm soup in the freezer can affect the temperature and safety of other frozen foods.
• Container Choice: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using containers, leave about an inch of headspace to allow the liquid to expand as it freezes. Lay freezer bags flat for more efficient storage.
• Label and Date: Don’t forget to label your containers with the contents and the date. For the best quality, use frozen chicken soup within 2 to 3 months ^[2].
• Noodle Note: If your soup contains noodles, it’s best to freeze the broth and chicken separately. Cooked noodles can become mushy when thawed. Add freshly cooked noodles when you reheat the soup for the best texture.
• Thawing Safely: The safest way to thaw soup is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, use the defrost setting on your microwave or place the sealed container in a bowl of cold water.

The Best Way to Reheat Soup

Reheating your soup correctly is essential for preserving its flavor and ensuring it’s safe to eat. Here are the two best methods.

• On the Stovetop: This method provides the most even heating.
  • Pour the soup into a saucepan.
  • Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Avoid a rolling boil, which can make ingredients mushy.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
• In the Microwave: For a quick and convenient option, use the microwave.
  • Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Cover the bowl loosely to avoid splatters.
  • Heat in 1- to 2-minute intervals, stirring between each one.
  • Continue heating until the soup is hot all the way through.
• Important Tip: Whichever method you choose, make sure the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
• Freshen It Up: Before serving, brighten the flavors with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

---

Sources

1. https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/charts/mintemp.html
2. https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/cold-storage-chart
3. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-science-behind-chicken-soup