A Simple, Nourishing Soup You Can Make Tonight
This homemade chicken soup is light, healthy, and easy to cook. It uses basic ingredients and comes together fast. It warms you up and fills the kitchen with a comforting smell. If you like quick brothy soups, you might also enjoy this chicken and shirataki noodle soup for another low-carb option.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Often
This recipe uses lean chicken and simple veggies. It’s low-effort, good for weeknights, and great when someone is under the weather. It reheats well and you can change it up with ingredients you already have. The flavors are mild and comforting, so picky eaters usually like it too.
How to Prepare Easy and Healthy Homemade Chicken Soup
Follow these clear steps to cook the soup from start to finish.
What You Need (Ingredients)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish
Cooking Steps (Directions)
- In a pot, add the chicken breasts and cover with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks.
- In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Simple Ways to Serve This Soup
Serve it in bowls with crusty bread or plain rice. For a lighter meal, pair it with a green salad. For a heartier bowl, add cooked noodles or potatoes. If you want a different pairing idea, try this easy pineapple chicken and rice as a follow-up meal to use similar ingredients.
How to Store Leftovers Safely
Cool the soup to room temperature within two hours, then place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. You can freeze the soup (without fresh herbs) for up to 3 months — thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Quick Tips for the Best Results
- Taste and adjust salt at the end. Broth brands vary in saltiness.
- Shred the chicken finely so it spreads through the soup.
- If you prefer more texture, add a handful of frozen peas or corn in the last 2 minutes.
- For a fun, kid-friendly dessert after soup, try making homemade gummies using this simple guide: how to make homemade gummies.
Small Changes You Can Try (Variations)
- Add egg noodles or rice to make it more filling.
- Swap dried herbs for a bay leaf or fresh thyme sprigs while simmering.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken to speed up cooking.
- For a low-carb version, add spiralized zucchini instead of noodles.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
(Estimate for 1 bowl, makes about 2–3 servings)
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: ~28 g
- Carbohydrates: ~8 g
- Fat: ~6 g
- Fiber: ~1.5 g
- Sodium: depends on broth (use low-sodium to control salt)
Family-Friendly Serving Ideas
- Serve with buttered toast and carrot sticks for kids.
- Let kids pick their toppings: chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or grated cheese.
- Offer crackers and a simple fruit cup for a balanced plate.
Foods That Go Well With This Soup
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed rice or simple buttered noodles
- Roasted vegetables on the side for extra vitamins
Conclusion
For more ideas and similar healthy chicken soup recipes, check these resources: Cozy and Delicious Healthy Chicken Soup – All the Healthy Things, The Best Chicken Soup You’ll Ever Eat | Ambitious Kitchen, and Healthy Chicken Soup – Modern Food Stories.
Common Questions About This Soup
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Thighs add more flavor and a little more fat. Adjust cooking time until meat is cooked through.
Q: Can I add noodles to the soup?
A: Yes. Add cooked noodles in the last 2–3 minutes so they don’t get mushy.
Q: How do I make the soup more flavorful without salt?
A: Use low-sodium broth and add fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a small dash of soy sauce for depth.
Q: Is this soup good for freezing?
A: Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Homemade Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use lean chicken for best results.
- 4 cups chicken broth Low-sodium broth can help control saltiness.
- 2 pieces carrots, diced Fresh carrots add sweetness.
- 2 pieces celery stalks, diced Add flavor and texture.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Provides a savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish Use at service.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- In a pot, add the chicken breasts and cover with the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks.
- In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
