This homemade chicken soup is warm, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. It’s a simple one-pot recipe that makes a comforting lunch or dinner, especially on chilly days.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple, wholesome ingredients
- Tender chicken and flavorful vegetables
- Easy one-pot preparation
- Great for cozy fall and winter meals
- Perfect for making ahead
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup egg noodles, optional
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
How to Make Homemade Chicken Soup
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken and broth: Place the chicken in the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add noodles: If using egg noodles, stir them into the soup and cook according to the package directions, usually 6–8 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving warm.
Tips for the Best Homemade Chicken Soup
- Chicken thighs add extra flavor and stay tender.
- Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the noodles or they can become too soft.
- Add more broth if the soup becomes too thick.
- Fresh parsley and lemon juice brighten the finished soup.
Final Thoughts
Homemade chicken soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy days. Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, flavorful broth, and simple herbs come together in one satisfying bowl.
