Easy Chicken Soup Uk Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken soup. The warmth, the flavors, and the soothing nature of the dish make it a go-to choice, especially when you’re feeling under the weather, need a quick dinner, or simply want something simple yet satisfying. Chicken soup has been cherished across cultures for centuries, with each region adding its own flair. But when you’re in the UK, what you might really crave is something that balances simplicity with the heartiness that the dish deserves.

This easy chicken soup UK recipe is all about bringing together fresh ingredients, a couple of pantry staples, and a handful of spices, to create something that hits the spot. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prep, or just want to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, this recipe is here to deliver.

This recipe isn’t just easy-it’s designed to be a no-fuss meal that anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, can whip up with minimal effort. With basic ingredients, a little patience, and a dash of love, you can create a soup that rivals your grandmother’s favorite. Here’s how we do it:

Ingredients Needed

Chicken (Breast or Thigh) – This is the star of the show. For a tender, juicy texture, chicken thighs are the way to go. They hold up better in the soup compared to breast meat, which can dry out more easily. But if you’re going for a leaner option, chicken breast will work too.
Carrots – These add a natural sweetness and earthy flavor that balances the savory elements of the broth. Cut them into small chunks for easy eating.
Onion – A medium-sized onion will provide the foundation of flavor. It adds depth and richness when sautéed.
Celery – Often seen in chicken soups for a reason. Celery’s mild taste and crunchy texture complement the soft, tender chicken and vegetables.
Garlic – Just a couple of cloves, finely chopped or minced, will elevate the flavor profile of your soup. Garlic is an aromatic that brings warmth and subtle heat.
Bay Leaves – Essential for adding a rich, herbal aroma that permeates the soup while it simmers. You’ll remove these before serving, but the flavor they impart is crucial.
Chicken Stock (or Broth) – The base of your soup. If you’re short on time, store-bought stock will do, but homemade stock is always the best if you’ve got the time.
Olive Oil – A bit of this to sauté the vegetables and chicken before everything gets simmered together. It helps develop the flavor right from the start.
Salt and Pepper – Seasoning to taste, essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the soup. Start light and adjust as it cooks.
Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Thyme, rosemary, or parsley are common additions to elevate the dish. A sprig or two will bring in a fresh and fragrant kick.

Cooking Instructions

Making chicken soup is an art of balancing heat, patience, and timing. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to make sure you get the most flavor-packed bowl every time:

Prep The Ingredients
- Peel and dice the onion.
- Chop the carrots into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the celery thinly, as this will help it soften faster.
- Mince or finely chop the garlic.
- Cut the chicken into chunks or leave it whole if you prefer shredding it later.
Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Cook The Chicken
- If using boneless chicken thighs or breast, add them directly to the pot. If using bone-in, just add the whole pieces and remove the bones later.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs you’re using. Stir the chicken and vegetables together, allowing the chicken to brown slightly on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
Simmer
- Pour in the chicken stock (around 1.5 liters, or enough to cover the ingredients) and add the bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. During this time, the flavors meld together beautifully.
Shred the Chicken (Optional):
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the pieces from the pot. Shred the chicken with two forks or dice it, depending on your texture preference. Return it to the pot.
Final Seasoning
- Taste your soup and adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredient Insights

Every ingredient in chicken soup brings something to the table, both in terms of flavor and nutrition. Here’s a deeper look at why each one is important:

Chicken: The chicken not only provides the base protein but also infuses the broth with rich, savory flavor. Opting for bone-in cuts, such as thighs, gives the broth a deeper, fuller taste.
Carrots: A source of beta-carotene and fiber, carrots give the soup a natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the stock. They also soften into the soup, making them easy to eat and digest.
Celery: Celery’s mild, peppery flavor blends well with the other ingredients. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamin K, and fiber, contributing to the soup’s overall nutritional value.
Garlic and Onion: Both garlic and onions are essential in most soups for building flavor. Garlic has natural antibacterial properties and is a great immune booster, which is why it’s often added to chicken soup when someone’s feeling under the weather.
Chicken Stock: A rich, flavorful stock is crucial. Homemade stock (made by boiling chicken bones) offers the most nutrients, but store-bought options can still provide a good base, particularly if you opt for low-sodium versions.

Expert Tips

If you’re looking to elevate this chicken soup recipe even further, here are a few expert tips to consider:

Use Leftover Roasted Chicken: If you have leftover roasted chicken or a rotisserie chicken, you can use the meat for a shortcut! Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Simmer Low and Slow: The longer you allow your soup to simmer, the richer the flavor becomes. If time permits, let it cook for an hour or more, stirring occasionally.
Add Lemon for Freshness: Just before serving, add a squeeze of lemon juice. The acidity brings a delightful freshness that cuts through the richness of the broth.
Balance the Broth: If the broth tastes too salty, you can dilute it with water. To balance, you could also add a pinch of sugar or a dash of vinegar to mellow it out.
Consider Adding Dumplings: If you like your soup extra hearty, why not make simple dumplings to float on top? They’ll soak up the broth and make your soup feel even more like a meal.

Recipe Variations

Chicken soup is incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on dietary needs or personal preferences:

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use a vegetable stock. You can replace the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or beans for added protein. Add some greens like spinach or kale to boost the nutrition.
Spicy Chicken Soup: Want a little heat? Add a chopped chili pepper or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. A touch of ginger could also add a bit of zing.
Noodle Soup: For a heartier option, toss in some egg noodles or rice midway through the cooking process. It’ll transform the soup into a filling one-pot meal.
Creamy Chicken Soup: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of the cooking process. A splash of cream will make the soup smooth and velvety.

Final Words

Chicken soup is the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re making it from scratch for the first time or you’re just looking for a new way to cook it, this easy chicken soup UK recipe promises delicious results with minimal hassle. It’s comfort food at its finest: nourishing, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Easy Chicken Soup Uk Recipe