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Homemade Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is built on a slow-simmered broth crafted from chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs, resulting in a clear, flavorful liquid with a slightly gelatinous texture. The process involves skimming foam, tender vegetables, and shredded chicken, culminating in a comforting bowl with vibrant herbs and a bright squeeze of lemon. It’s a nourishing, adaptable dish that fills the house with warmth and aroma.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 set chicken bones and carcass rinsed
  • 2 medium onions roughly chopped
  • 2 large carrots roughly chopped
  • 3 stalks celery roughly chopped
  • 1 whole lemon for squeezing
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, added at end
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme chopped, added at end
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for finishing
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken for adding at the end
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Fine sieve or chinois
  • sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Place the rinsed chicken bones and carcass into a large stockpot, then cover with cold water, about 4-5 inches above the bones.
  2. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium heat and skim off any foam that rises to the surface during the first 15 minutes, using a ladle.
  3. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Continue simmering uncovered for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the broth to deepen.
  4. Check the broth occasionally, adding more water if needed, and let it simmer until it smells rich and looks slightly gelatinous when cooled.
  5. Strain the broth through a fine sieve into another pot or large bowl, pressing gently to extract all the flavorful liquid. Discard the solids.
  6. Season the clear broth with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to ensure balanced flavor.
  7. Add the shredded cooked chicken, chopped herbs, and a squeeze of lemon to the hot broth, stirring gently to combine.
  8. Finish by drizzling the olive oil over the soup for added richness and aroma.
  9. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with extra herbs if desired, and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add diced cooked potatoes or noodles after straining, simmering briefly to warm through. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving. The broth can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.