Best Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe – Classic, Comforting, and Nourishing
This best-ever homemade chicken soup features tender chicken, vegetables, and herbs simmered in a rich, golden broth — classic comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients
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1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs) or 2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs
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3 carrots, peeled and chopped
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3 celery stalks, chopped
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1 onion, halved
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3 garlic cloves (optional)
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1 bay leaf
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10–12 cups cold water or low-sodium chicken broth
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1 1/2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
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Fresh ground black pepper
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1 cup egg noodles or 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or di
Instructions
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Place chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and bay leaf in a large pot. Cover with cold water.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim foam.
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Simmer 1.5–2 hours (whole chicken) or 1 hour (chicken parts).
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Remove chicken and vegetables. Shred meat and discard bones/skin.
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Strain broth if desired. Return broth to pot and add fresh sliced carrots and celery. Simmer 15 minutes.
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Add shredded chicken and noodles or rice (if using). Simmer until tender.
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Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir in herbs and serve hot.
Notes
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Store in fridge 5 days or freeze 3 months
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Add noodles fresh if freezing
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Use bone-in chicken for best flavor