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Comforting Chicken Soup

This chicken soup features a layered, flavorful broth built from sautéed aromatics, tender shredded chicken, and fresh vegetables. It’s simmered to meld the flavors into a clear, aromatic broth with a hearty texture, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon. Perfect for a quick, nourishing meal that’s both adaptable and comforting.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Homestyle
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 6 cups chicken stock rich and well-seasoned
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice and brightness

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Heat a large stockpot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering and fragrant, about 1 minute, add the chopped onions and minced garlic.
  2. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden and translucent, about 3 minutes. The kitchen should fill with a warm, savory aroma.
  3. Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook them with the aromatics, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. They should be slightly tender but still hold their shape.
  4. Pour in the chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.
  5. Reduce the heat slightly and let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes. During this time, flavors will meld, and the vegetables will become tender, while the broth deepens in aroma.
  6. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed, adjusting to your flavor preference. The broth should be clear and aromatic.
  7. Squeeze the juice of a lemon into the soup, stirring well. The bright citrus will lift the flavors and add a fresh zing.
  8. Give everything a final stir, then ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve immediately, perhaps with crusty bread on the side for a complete comfort meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley during simmering. Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe, making it quick to prepare.