When friends are sick, I cannot just sit back and ‘send hugs.’ It stinks to be sick! So, I created this super basic, healthy, simple chicken soup recipe that’s got all the good stuff and none of the bad to take to friends (and eat myself) in times of need. It’s nourishing, easy to sip, with chicken and veggies to bolster your body and lots of garlic, which is an immune boosting, anti-inflammatory wonder. A spritz of lemon, and a little fresh parsley and thyme awaken sleepy digestive systems to help your friends and families get back on their feet.
Another key thing about this homemade chicken soup recipe is that there is NO WATER. I use all chicken stock (use the best stock you can get!) to make a delicious and deeply nourishing broth studded with carrots and celery.
When my friends and neighbors are sick, I make big batches of this chicken soup and drop big mason jars full of it on porches, usually along with a few of my favorite teas and (if they’re a really good friend) a cozy book to keep them company while they sip this soup and get well. It’s always so appreciated, and this soup comes together so easily that I truly love to do it.
This chicken soup also freezes beautifully, so as sick season approaches, you can do yourself a favor and load your own fridge with a few batches so you’ve got easy, healthy sick day meals ready to go if and when the need arises. If you want something with noodles, you can’t go wrong with chicken noodle soup, or any of our best soup recipes!
Simple Chicken Soup Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Simple, simple, simple. While I love rich, skin on thighs, I actually think that simple is best, especially for feeding people with colds.
- Alliums: Onions, leeks and garlic!
- Vegetables: Celery, carrots
- Chicken stock: Use the very best stock that you have on hand. If you have homemade stock handy, that’ll be the very best in terms of nutrients and flavor. But, store bought stock will work well. Just buy the best you can!
- Herbs: bay leaves, fresh thyme and parsley
- Lemon: A little brightness is so important in a simple soup like this. Lemon is a great way to boost flavor, too!
How To Make Chicken Soup, Step By Step
See the full recipe card at the bottom of this post for the detailed instructions!
- Sauté the onion, leeks, celery, carrots and garlic in oil.
- Pour in the stock, along with bay leaves, thyme, and salt.
- When it comes to a boil, add the chicken.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Take the chicken out (I use tongs for this) and shred it.
- Add the chicken back to the soup, along with lemon juice, parsley, and pepper.
- Dig in!
More Easy, Comforting Chicken Soup Recipes
Feed Your Loved Ones!
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