Nothing feels more comforting and nourishing than a bowl of warm chicken soup, especially when you’re in need of something quick, easy, and soothing. Whether it’s a chilly evening, you’re under the weather, or you simply want something that feels like a hug in a bowl, chicken soup never disappoints. However, not all chicken soups require a long list of ingredients or hours of simmering. The beauty of this Easy Chicken Soup with Few Ingredients recipe is that it simplifies the process, letting you create something delicious and satisfying in minimal time and with basic ingredients. So, if you’ve ever found yourself craving a hearty bowl of soup but don’t want to deal with a complicated recipe, this one is for you.
This recipe allows you to enjoy the full flavor of homemade chicken soup without the fuss. No fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients here-just wholesome, accessible staples that you likely already have in your kitchen.
Let’s dive right into how you can make this super simple, flavorful, and heartwarming chicken soup with just a few basic ingredients.
Easy Chicken Soup With Few Ingredients Recipe
This recipe is built around simplicity, with just a handful of ingredients and a relatively short cooking time. It gives you the freedom to experiment a little while still staying true to the basics of what makes chicken soup so comforting: savory broth, tender chicken, and a hint of herbs and vegetables.
Ingredients Needed
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: This is the primary protein source. Chicken breasts are leaner, but thighs offer more flavor and tend to remain juicier.
- Chicken broth or stock: The base of your soup. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake, or use homemade stock for a richer flavor.
- Carrots: A classic addition, adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery: Provides that signature crunch and freshness that balances out the savory elements.
- Onion: A must-have for that foundational, aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
- Garlic: To give your broth a bit of depth and richness.
- Salt and pepper: For basic seasoning.
- Herbs (optional): Parsley, thyme, or bay leaves can add an extra layer of flavor to your soup. You can skip these if you prefer a more straightforward taste.
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic. If you’re using whole chicken breasts, you can either keep them whole or cut them into chunks for quicker cooking.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat a little oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic.
- Cook the chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s boiling, drop in the chicken breasts (or thighs). Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the soup.
- Season and finish: Add salt and pepper to taste. For a little extra flavor, toss in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of dried thyme. Simmer for another 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the simple yet comforting meal!
Ingredient Insights
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the go-to for many chicken soups because they cook quickly and easily. They’re a healthier choice if you’re looking to cut back on fat, but they can be a little less flavorful than thighs.
- Chicken broth: Using a high-quality chicken broth is key. If you’re in a pinch, you can use bouillon cubes or powdered broth, but fresh or homemade broth always adds a superior depth of flavor. Homemade broth is rich in collagen, which gives the soup a velvety texture.
- Carrots and celery: These two vegetables are the traditional “mirepoix” base for many soups. They bring both sweetness and a bit of earthiness, which balances the savory chicken broth beautifully.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley bring a brightness to the soup, while thyme or bay leaves lend a more herbal depth. Even if you use dried herbs, be sure to add them early on to allow their flavors to infuse into the broth.
Expert Tips
- Shredding the chicken: Shredding the chicken after it cooks is essential for a more rustic, comforting texture. If you leave the chicken in large pieces, it won’t soak up the broth as well. Also, shredding while the chicken is hot makes it easier and more tender.
- Adjust the broth to your preference: If you like a heartier soup, you can add less broth, or if you want something more soupy, you can add more. Just make sure to balance it with enough seasoning.
- Make it ahead of time: Chicken soup is one of those dishes that actually gets better after a day or two in the fridge. If you make it ahead, the flavors will have more time to develop, and the soup will thicken slightly, making it even more satisfying.
- For a richer flavor: Consider adding a bit of butter to the pot when sautéing the vegetables. This will create a richer base, which pairs nicely with the chicken and broth.
Recipe Variations
While this basic chicken soup recipe is delicious on its own, here are some easy variations to keep things exciting:
- Chicken and Rice: Add some cooked rice or even a handful of uncooked rice to the soup while it’s simmering. Let it cook directly in the broth to add heartiness.
- Chicken and Noodles: You can add egg noodles for a classic chicken noodle soup. Just add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid them getting too mushy.
- Creamy Chicken Soup: For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the soup at the end. Stir well to achieve a velvety consistency.
- Spicy Chicken Soup: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or even a touch of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Veggie-packed Chicken Soup: Increase the veggie content by adding potatoes, corn, peas, or even green beans. These additions will make the soup even more filling and vibrant.
Final Words
This easy chicken soup recipe is a perfect way to warm up on a cold day, satisfy your hunger, and even boost your mood. It’s one of those recipes that works for almost any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a comforting meal when you’re feeling under the weather. What’s wonderful about this recipe is its versatility-you can stick to the basics or modify it based on what you have on hand, and it’ll still turn out delicious.
It’s all about embracing the simple, homestyle goodness that only a bowl of chicken soup can provide.