When comfort food calls for something deeply nourishing, this Classic Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe with tender chicken and fresh carrots delivers every time. Simmering the broth low and slow builds a rich, flavorful base that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that turns a simple weeknight dinner into a moment of cozy reassurance for the whole family.
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Ingredients for Chicken Soup Recipe
For the soup
- Low-sodium chicken broth – The base of the soup, so make sure it’s a good quality one you love.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Opt for fresh, as they’ll give you the most tender shreds.
- Olive oil – A good drizzle to sauté the veggies perfectly.
- Yellow onion – Finely chopped for that sweet, savory base flavor.
- Carrots – Peeled and sliced into rounds for a little sweetness and crunch.
- Celery – Thinly sliced to add that classic soup texture.
- Garlic – Mined for a fragrant, savory kick.
- Dried thyme – Adds warmth and an herby depth to the broth.
- Black pepper – Freshly cracked is always best for maximum flavor.
- Kosher salt – Adjust to taste, but it’s a must for balancing everything.
For the finishing touches
- Wide egg noodles – They’re hearty and soak up the broth just right.
- Fresh parsley – Finely chopped for a bright, fresh finish.
Cook Time for Homemade Chicken Soup
One of the things I love most about this homemade chicken soup is how quickly it comes together on a busy night. From chopping the veggies to that first comforting spoonful, it’s ready in under an hour.
You’ll have 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of simmering for a total time of 50 minutes. For more weeknight-friendly inspiration, check out my collection of healthy soup recipes.
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
How to Make Easy Chicken Soup
Making this easy chicken soup is a simple, soul-satisfying process. I’ll walk you through each step to create that perfect simmered chicken and vegetable soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, then add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the broth to a gentle boil over high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Return
Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and transfer them to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 6: Add Noodles
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add 2 cups of wide egg noodles. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Step 7: Final Touches
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this chicken soup recipe truly special. Here are my favorite ways to customize and perfect your pot.
- Flavor Swap: For a different herb profile, swap the thyme for a teaspoon of rosemary or sage. It completely transforms the cozy thyme and garlic soup vibe.
- Diet Tweak: To keep it lower-carb, swap the egg noodles for zucchini noodles added right at the end, or try a handful of spinach. For another healthy twist, my Mexican sweet potato chicken soup is a favorite.
- Texture Fix: If you prefer a clearer broth, skim any foam that rises to the top during the first few minutes of simmering the chicken. It makes for a cleaner, more elegant soup.
- Storage Tip: This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb broth, so you may need to add a splash of water or extra broth when reheating. For more make-ahead ideas, my slow cooker chicken stew is another great option.
Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- 3 medium carrots peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 stalks celery thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the broth to a gentle boil over high heat.
- Carefully add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a clean cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add 2 cups of wide egg noodles. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, uncovered, until the noodles are tender.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
This homemade chicken soup isn’t just comforting for the soul—it’s packed with nutrients that truly nourish the body. I’ve always believed that food should be both delicious and wholesome, and this savory broth with tender chicken is a perfect example.
Each bowl provides a wonderful balance of lean protein, vitamins from the vegetables, and hydrating broth that’s gentle on the stomach. It’s one of those meals that makes you feel cared for from the inside out. For more nourishing options, my minestrone soup offers another vegetable-packed choice.
According to traditional chicken soup methods, the slow simmering process helps extract nutrients and create an easily digestible meal perfect for any day you need extra comfort.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 25g per serving |
| Carbohydrates | 18g per serving |
| Vitamin A | 120% Daily Value |
| Sodium | Adjustable to preference |
A Lighter Version of Chicken Soup Recipe
Sometimes you want all the comfort of this chicken soup recipe with a lighter touch. I’ve perfected a version that still delivers that cozy feeling while being mindful of calories and carbs.
Instead of egg noodles, try swirling in spiralized zucchini or yellow squash during the last few minutes of cooking. They add wonderful texture without the extra carbs. You can also reduce the olive oil to just a teaspoon and use cooking spray for sautéing the vegetables.
For another lightened-up favorite, my tom kha gai soup offers a Thai-inspired twist with coconut milk. If you’re craving more broth-forward options, this Irish stew recipe can be easily adapted with leaner meats and extra vegetables.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I’ve learned that cooking for different dietary needs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. Over the years, I’ve adapted this chicken soup recipe for friends and family with various preferences, and I’m happy to share what works beautifully.
For those watching their sugar intake or needing diabetic-friendly options, this soup naturally lends itself to modifications. The basic recipe is already low in sugar, but you can make it even more blood sugar friendly by keeping the vegetable proportions balanced and choosing lower-glycemic options.
Instead of starchy noodles, try adding extra non-starchy vegetables like kale, spinach, or green beans. They add wonderful texture and nutrients without spiking glucose levels. For natural sweetness without added sugar, the carrots provide just enough while keeping the glycemic index manageable.
Portion control also helps maintain glycemic control—sometimes I serve this as a starter rather than a main course. Remember, everyone’s needs are different, so adjust based on what makes you feel your best.
How to Serve Chicken Soup Recipe
I’ll never forget how my grandmother would serve her chicken noodle soup with such ceremony. She’d bring the steaming pot to the table, the aroma filling our small kitchen, and ladle it into her best china bowls like she was serving royalty.
That memory inspires how I serve this comforting chicken soup today—with love and attention to the little details that make a meal special.
For weekday meals, I love pairing this hearty soup with egg noodles with a simple green salad or crusty whole-grain bread for dipping. The contrast of warm soup with crisp greens feels so satisfying. On colder evenings, I’ll sometimes add a side of my pesto meatball soup for those who want extra protein.
For a heartier dinner, this chicken soup recipe pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich or even a simple cream of broccoli soup for a soup duo that pleases everyone at the table.
However you choose to serve it, the real secret is taking a moment to enjoy the warmth and comfort this homemade chicken soup brings to your table and to those you share it with.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made plenty of mistakes with this homemade chicken soup recipe over the years, but each one taught me how to create a better bowl of comfort. Let me share a few common pitfalls so you can avoid them and make your soup perfect every time.
One mistake I see often is rushing the simmering process. If you boil the broth too vigorously, it becomes cloudy and the chicken turns tough instead of tender. Keep the heat low and steady for that clear, savory broth we all love.
Another error is overseasoning too early. As the liquid reduces, flavors concentrate—so wait until the final minutes to adjust salt and pepper. I learned this the hard way when I served an unintentionally salty batch to my Thanksgiving guests!
Finally, don’t overlook the importance of quality ingredients. Using bland stock or wilted vegetables will let your soup down. For more tips on building flavor foundations, check out my slow cooker Italian beef soup where I break down slow-simmering techniques.
Remember what traditional chicken soup methods emphasize: patience and attention to detail transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Trust the process, and you’ll be rewarded with the most comforting chicken soup recipe.
How to Store Chicken Soup Recipe
My grandmother always made a huge pot of chicken noodle soup on Sundays, saying “soup should last like love—through at least two meals.” She’d portion it into glass jars with handwritten labels, and I still follow her storage wisdom today.
Let your soup cool completely before storing—I usually leave it on the counter for about an hour. Then transfer it to airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion if freezing. The broth and solids keep best when stored separately, but they can cozy up together if you plan to eat within a few days.
In the refrigerator, your homemade chicken soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. I love having individual portions ready for busy nights—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the perfect consistency. If you enjoy meal prepping like I do, my chicken taco soup and sweet potato chicken soup recipe also freeze beautifully for variety throughout the week.
Try This Chicken Soup Recipe Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time I made this chicken soup recipe for my now-husband. He had a terrible cold, and I showed up at his apartment with a steaming pot and fresh bread. He said it tasted like warmth and care in a bowl—and that’s when I knew he was a keeper.
Now I want you to create your own memories with this comforting chicken soup. Whether you’re nourishing someone you love or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is waiting to become part of your story.
Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Add extra garlic if you’re fighting off a cold, throw in some kale for extra nutrients, or make it heartier with those tender egg noodles. The best recipes are the ones that adapt to your life and cravings.
If you enjoy this cozy thyme and garlic soup, you might also love exploring my collection of healthy soup recipes, the zesty flavors of Mexican sweet potato chicken soup, or the creamy comfort of crockpot cheeseburger soup. Whatever you choose to make next, I hope it brings you as much joy as this chicken soup recipe has brought to my kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients to put in chicken soup?
I use chicken thighs or a whole bird for richer flavor, along with classic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley brighten everything up, while egg noodles make it extra comforting. For more inspiration, see my butternut squash soup which uses similar aromatic bases.
What is the secret ingredient in soup?
A splash of acidity at the end transforms good soup into great soup! I often add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar to brighten all the flavors. This little trick balances the richness and makes each ingredient sing.
What are common mistakes when making chicken soup?
The biggest mistakes are boiling instead of simmering, which makes cloudy broth, and adding noodles too early so they become mushy. Also remember to season at the end since flavors concentrate as the liquid reduces. Patience is the real secret to perfect soup!
What is the secret to making good soup?
Start with good-quality stock and don’t rush the simmering process. Let the ingredients meld together slowly, and always taste as you go. The best soups are made with attention and care—just like this homemade chicken soup recipe that simmers until every spoonful comforts.
More Cozy Soup Recipes You’ll Love
Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. Here are some of my most-loved recipes that bring comfort to any table.
- Hearty Minestrone Soup – Packed with vegetables and beans, this Italian classic satisfies with every spoonful.
- Creamy Tom Kha Gai – Thai coconut chicken soup that’s both tangy and soothing with lemongrass and ginger.
- Traditional Irish Stew – Tender lamb and root vegetables simmered in a rich broth that tastes like heritage.
- Pesto Meatball Soup – Savory meatballs and fresh pestal swirl together in this quick weeknight favorite.
- Slow Cooker Chicken Stew – Let your crockpot do the work for this hands-off comfort meal with tender chicken.
- Creamy Broccoli Soup – Velvety and vibrant, this soup feels indulgent but comes together in minutes.
