Cozy Best Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe for Cold Nights
This homemade chicken soup is a comforting classic, perfect for warming up on cold evenings. Made with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a gently simmered broth, it’s simple, nourishing, and deeply satisfying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
· 1.5 pounds (680 g) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150 g)
· 3 medium carrots, sliced (about 1½ cups / 180 g)
· 3 celery stalks, sliced (about 1½ cups / 150 g)
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 8 cups (1.9 liters) low-sodium chicken broth or water
· 1 teaspoon salt
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· 1 teaspoon dried thyme
· 1 bay leaf
· 1 cup (120 g) egg noodles or small pasta (optional)
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
· Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft.
2. Add carrots and celery, cooking for 5 minutes, then stir in garlic.
3. Add chicken, broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30–35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
6. Add noodles if using and simmer until tender.
7. Remove bay leaf, stir in parsley and lemon juice, and serve hot.
Notes
For best flavor, use bone-in chicken and simmer gently. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for later enjoyment.