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Simple Nourishing Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is made by gently simmering tender chicken and fresh vegetables in flavorful broth, resulting in a comforting, clear, and hearty dish. It features a balance of soft vegetables, shredded chicken, and aromatic herbs, with a bright splash of lemon at the end for a fresh finish. The final texture is soothing and slightly chunky, perfect for a restorative meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken preferably from roasted or boiled chicken
  • 2 carrots fresh carrots diced
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium if preferred
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing at the end

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering and fragrant, add the diced onions and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly and smell sweet, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Let everything warm through for a minute or two.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure it covers the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, listening for soft bubbling.
  4. Add the thyme and bay leaves to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to become tender.
  5. Remove the bay leaves and taste the broth. Season with salt and pepper as needed, keeping the flavor bright and balanced.
  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup to add a zesty brightness, then give it a gentle stir.
  7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprig of thyme or a lemon wedge if desired, and enjoy its comforting, hearty texture.