There’s just something about chicken soup for sickness that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. I remember one winter when I caught a nasty cold, and all I wanted was a bowl of this comforting soup. The aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to lift my spirits, and each spoonful felt like it was healing me from the inside out. This recipe is my go-to remedy because it’s not only delicious but also packed with nourishing ingredients that help soothe whatever ails you. It’s simple to make, using just a few staple ingredients, and comes together in no time. Trust me, when you’re feeling under the weather, this chicken soup will be your best friend!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 3-4 pounds)
- 8 cups of water
- 2 medium carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken pieces in a large pot and pour in the 8 cups of water. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged for even cooking.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat. You’ll want to keep an eye on it to prevent it from boiling too vigorously, as that can make the chicken tough.
- Once boiling, add in the chopped carrots, celery, onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. This is where the magic begins—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Now, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour. This slow cooking is what allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
- After the hour is up, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot. Let them cool for a few minutes, then shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and skin—you won’t need them anymore!
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring it in with all those delicious veggies and broth.
- Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes. This last step adds a fresh touch and brightens up the flavors.
- Serve the soup hot, and don’t forget to ladle it into your favorite bowl. You can even top it with a sprinkle of extra parsley for a little pop of color!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozying up when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup nourishes your body and soul, helping you recover faster.
- Simple to make with minimal prep—perfect for those days when you don’t have much energy.
- The soothing aroma of simmering chicken and veggies fills your kitchen, lifting your spirits.
- Customizable! You can easily add your favorite herbs or veggies to make it your own.
- Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
- This comforting bowl is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- It’s a classic recipe that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right chicken: I recommend using a whole chicken for the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts work well too. Just remember, the bones add extra richness to the broth.
- Don’t rush the simmer: The longer you let it simmer, the better the flavors meld together. If you can, let it simmer for a bit longer than an hour—your patience will be rewarded!
- Season to taste: I like to start with the basic salt and pepper, but don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning as it simmers. A little taste test here and there can make all the difference.
- Fresh herbs are key: If you can, use fresh parsley instead of dried. It adds a burst of flavor and a lovely pop of color right at the end!
- Garnish for flair: When serving, consider a sprinkle of extra parsley or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. It not only enhances flavor but also makes your soup look even more inviting!
- Make it heartier: If you or your loved ones want a more filling meal, try adding some egg noodles or rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They soak up the flavors beautifully and make it extra comforting.
- Keep it simple: When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you need is a complicated dish. This recipe is all about comfort and ease, so don’t stress—just enjoy the process!
Variations
One of the best things about this chicken soup for sickness is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to suit your personal tastes or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Herb infusion: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. Just toss in a few sprigs while it simmers for a delightful flavor boost!
- Veggie lovers: If you enjoy a heartier soup, feel free to throw in extra vegetables like green beans, peas, or even spinach. They add color and nutrients to your bowl!
- Spice it up: For those who like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. It’ll give your soup a warming kick that’s perfect when you’re under the weather!
- Protein options: Not feeling like chicken? You can swap in cooked shredded turkey or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option. Both will still deliver that comforting, soothing quality!
- Asian-inspired: Give your soup an Asian flair by adding a splash of soy sauce and some sliced green onions. You could also toss in some bok choy or mushrooms for a unique twist!
- Creamy version: If you’re craving something a bit richer, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right at the end. It’ll give your soup a luscious texture that feels extra indulgent.
With these variations, you can keep the recipe fresh and exciting every time you make it! Don’t be afraid to play around and make it your own—after all, this soup is all about what makes you feel good!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying a warm bowl of this comforting chicken soup for sickness, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers. Storing them properly is key to keeping that wonderful flavor intact!
- Cool before storing: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the soup watery.
- Airtight containers: Use airtight containers to store the soup in the fridge. It should keep well for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label them with the date so you remember when it was made!
- Freezing for later: If you want to save some for a rainy day, this soup freezes beautifully! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To enjoy your frozen soup, simply transfer it to the fridge a day before you plan to eat it. If you’re in a rush, you can also thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to dig in, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If it looks a bit thick, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!
- Microwave option: You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely to avoid splattering. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken soup for sickness whenever you need a comforting boost. It’s like having a little jar of warmth waiting for you in the fridge or freezer!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional data for this comforting chicken soup for sickness. Keep in mind that values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 25g
This chicken soup for sickness is not only tasty but also nourishing, giving you a healthy dose of protein along with a comforting mix of veggies. Perfect for when you need a little extra care and warmth!
FAQ Section
Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just skip the initial boiling step and add the shredded chicken into the broth along with the veggies. This way, you can still enjoy that comforting chicken soup for sickness without starting from scratch!
What if I don’t have bay leaves?
Don’t worry if you’re out of bay leaves; the soup will still be delicious without them. You can add a bit of dried thyme or oregano for additional flavor. Just remember, it’s all about what you have on hand!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! If you prefer the slow cooker method, toss all the ingredients into the pot and set it on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken at the end just like you would on the stovetop. It’s an easy way to let the flavors develop while you go about your day!
How do I make this soup less salty?
If you find the soup too salty, you can balance it out by adding more water or low-sodium broth. You can also add some diced potatoes, which will absorb some of the saltiness while cooking. Just be sure to taste as you go!
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes! This chicken soup for sickness freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be a lifesaver on days when you need a quick, comforting meal!
For more information on the health benefits of chicken soup, you can check out this Healthline article.
Print
Chicken Soup for Sickness: 7 Healing Ingredients Inside
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting chicken soup recipe to help you feel better when you’re sick.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 8 cups of water
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the chicken and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove chicken, shred the meat, and discard bones and skin.
- Add shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Stir in parsley and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add noodles for a heartier soup.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This soup freezes well for future use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken soup for sickness, comfort food, healthy soup
