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Healing Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made by simmering a whole chicken or chicken parts with aromatic vegetables, resulting in a clear, golden broth packed with tender shredded chicken. The slow cooking process develops deep flavors and a soothing texture, perfect for quiet mornings or when seeking warmth. Brightened with lemon juice and fresh herbs, it offers a wholesome, nourishing experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 kg whole chicken or chicken parts preferably organic
  • 1 large onion roughly chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 2 large carrots chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • a handful fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • a few slices fresh thyme optional
  • 1 slice ginger optional, for extra healing

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Fine sieve
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Place the whole chicken or chicken parts in a large stockpot and cover with cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the water to just bubble around the edges—avoid a rolling boil to keep the broth clear.
  2. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface in the first 10 minutes; this keeps the broth clear and clean-tasting. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot.
  3. Reduce the heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer around 80°C (176°F). Let the broth simmer uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
  4. Carefully remove the chicken from the broth and set aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine sieve into another pot or large bowl, discarding the solids. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, removing any skin and bones.
  5. Return the shredded chicken to the strained broth. Add a splash of lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir gently. Let the soup sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld and the broth to warm through.
  6. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley and thyme if using, and serve warm. Enjoy the soothing warmth and clear, flavorful broth that’s perfect for nourishing your body and soul.

Notes

Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste. For extra healing properties, add a few slices of fresh ginger during simmering. Keep the broth clear by skimming foam regularly and avoiding boiling too vigorously.