Chicken soup, often hailed as the elixir of comfort, combines succulent pieces of chicken simmered gently with a medley of carrots, celery, and onions in a golden, savory broth. Infused with a bouquet of herbs, this simple yet profound blend soothes the soul and rejuvenates the senses, embodying the essence of homemade care in each heartwarming spoonful.
Nobody likes being ill. But if there is one thing that will knock a cold on its head, it is a delicious bowl of chicken soup. Nothing is more warming and comforting than a tasty Chicken Soup for Cold. You might need a whole host of unique ingredients to make a soup as good as this.
But you couldn’t be further from the truth. It is effortless to whip this dish together! All you need are a few instructions and a list of ingredients. Luckily for you, we know just how to make this tasty dish.
So, in this article, we will go over everything you need to know about making this tasty chicken soup for the cold at home. Are you excited to check out this recipe? Well, let’s dive right in and get started!
You will likely need more detail on how to make this delicious cold-fighting soup. So, read on if you want to learn more about making this perfectly seasoned chicken soup at home.
What Is Chicken Soup For Cold?
Chicken soup for cold refers to the age-old remedy of consuming warm chicken broth during chilly days or when one feels under the weather. Rich in nutrients and packed with flavors, this soup offers both comfort and health benefits.
Many believe it aids in reducing inflammation and clearing nasal congestion. Beyond its potential medicinal qualities, chicken soup is heartwarming, reminding many of home, care, and tradition. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and cure.
Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?
- Keto Focus on high-fat ingredients. Replace potatoes with low-carb veggies like cauliflower. Increase the chicken and use bone broth for added nutrients.
- Paleo Ensure all ingredients are unprocessed. Remove legumes, grains, and dairy. Opt for organic chicken and use arrowroot powder as a thickener.
- Gluten-Free Avoid gluten-free ingredients, such as certain broths or bouillon cubes. Check labels meticulously.
- Whole30 Emphasize whole foods, and avoid grains, dairy, sugar, and legumes. Incorporate homemade chicken broth and plenty of veggies.
- Vegetarian Omit chicken and use vegetable broth. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms for a meaty texture.
- Vegan Remove chicken and use vegetable broth. Introduce tofu or tempeh for added protein, and up the veggies for a fuller soup.
Recipe Directions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat some cooking oil in a pot or Dutch oven. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onions for 2 minutes. Add ginger and garlic, and cook for a minute. Mix in celery, carrots, turmeric, oregano, and Italian herbs, sautéing for another 2 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Place chicken, bay leaves, potatoes, rosemary, thyme, broth, water, salt, and pepper into the pot. Ensure the chicken submerges fully. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, simmering for 30 minutes. Ensure potatoes are tender and chicken cooks thoroughly.
- Shred Chicken: Remove chicken and bay leaf. Shred chicken using two forks, and return to pot. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Stir well and serve hot. Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with a side.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Asian Twist: Add lemongrass, star anise, and shiitake mushrooms.
- Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate tomatoes, lemon zest, and olives.
Add-Ons
- Grains: Barley, quinoa, or rice for a heartier soup.
- Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard wilted in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Legumes: Chickpeas or lentils for added protein.
- Heat: Fresh chili, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce.
Toppings
- Herbs: Fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill.
- Crunch: Croutons, toasted pumpkin seeds, or crispy fried onions.
- Creaminess: A dollop of Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a swirl of coconut milk.
Can I Make Chicken Soup For Cold In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Slow Cooker
- Place all ingredients in the slow cooker. Ensure you have enough liquid to cover the chicken.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Before serving, shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
- This method infuses deep flavors and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
Instant Pot
- Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and vegetables. Add the rest of the ingredients, ensuring you don’t overfill.
- Seal the lid and set it to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” for 15-20 minutes. Release pressure, shred chicken, and serve.
- The Instant Pot delivers a rich, flavorful soup in a fraction of the time.
Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
Store-Bought Broth
- Convenience: Saves time, especially if you’re in a hurry.
- Consistency: Offers a uniform taste every time you use it.
- Variety: Available in multiple flavors and dietary options (e.g., low-sodium, organic).
- Caution: Read labels to avoid broths with high sodium, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
Homemade Broth
- Flavor Control: Tailor the taste according to your preferences.
- Nutrient-Rich: Slow simmering extracts minerals and collagen from bones.
- No Additives: Free from preservatives and artificial ingredients.
- Economical: Utilize leftover bones and veggie scraps.
How To Serve ?
- Right Temperature: Serve hot but not scalding. This maximizes flavor and provides therapeutic warmth.
- Fresh Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or dill elevates the dish and adds color.
- Complements: Offer crusty bread or crackers on the side for texture contrast.
- Reheat Properly: If serving leftovers, gently reheat on the stovetop to avoid overcooking ingredients.
- Serve in Warm Bowls: Pre-warm bowls by rinsing with hot water. This keeps the soup hotter for longer.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon can enhance flavors and add a zesty kick.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the broth, providing both taste and texture.
- Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette can offset the soup’s warmth.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Melty cheese between toasted bread adds comfort and heartiness.
- Steamed Vegetables: Seasoned lightly, they can provide a healthful addition.
- Quinoa or Rice Pilaf: These grains provide a fuller meal, complementing the soup’s protein.
- Roasted Garlic Crostini: Delivers crunch and rich flavor.
- Savory Muffins: Think zucchini or cornbread for a delightful side.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Storage: Cool the chicken soup swiftly and store in airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer preservation, freeze it for up to 6 months, ensuring flavors remain intact.
- Reheating: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
- Make Ahead: Preparing chicken soup ahead is efficient and enhances its taste. The flavors meld and deepen when allowed to rest overnight in the refrigerator. Before serving, reheat gently, adjusting seasonings as necessary to revive its full-bodied essence. This strategy not only saves time but also elevates the meal’s flavor profile.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
- Reinvent as a New Soup: Add new veggies, spices, or grains for a fresh flavor.
- Chicken Salad: Shred leftover chicken for a cold salad mixed with mayo, celery, and seasonings.
- Chicken Tacos or Wraps: Use the chicken as a filling with your favorite toppings.
- Stir-Fry: Combine leftover chicken and veggies with sauce and serve over rice or noodles.
- Chicken Pot Pie: Use the soup as a base, top with pastry or biscuit dough, and bake.
- Rice Bowl: Serve over cooked rice, drizzled with a complementary sauce.
- Pasta Add-in: Mix with cooked pasta, perhaps with a cream or tomato sauce splash.
- Freeze: Package and freeze leftovers in portion sizes for future easy meals.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in pieces for a richer broth.
- Rich Broth: Start with cold water and simmer slowly to extract maximum flavor.
- Skim the Fat: Regularly skim the surface for a clearer soup.
- Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh carrots, celery, and onions for the best taste.
- Herb Layering: Add hardy herbs early and finish with delicate ones.
- Season Properly: Season with salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go.
- Cooking Time: Don’t overcook the chicken; remove when tender.
- Serving: Serve hot, adding fresh herbs for a bright finish.
Delicious Chicken Soup For Cold – A Timeless Comforting Dish
Course: soup recipesServings
4
servingsPrep time
15
minutesCooking time
45
minutesCalories
358
kcalWarm, nourishing, and brimming with tender chicken and aromatic vegetables, Chicken Soup for Cold is a timeless remedy and comfort dish. This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s a soothing elixir for body and soul.
Ingredients
2 Tablespoons 2 Cooking Oil
2 2 Chicken Breasts (Boneless & Skinless)
3 3 Potatoes (Medium-Sized, Diced)
4 4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
1 1 Yellow Onion (Finely chopped)
Shallot (Finely chopped)
3 3 Carrots (Sliced)
3 3 Celery Stalks (Chopped)
1 Inch Piece 1 Fresh Ginger (Minced)
1 Teaspoon 1 Turmeric Powder
4 Cups 4 Chicken Broth
2 Cups 2 Water
1 Sprig 1 Fresh Rosemary
2 Sprigs 2 Fresh Thyme
1 1 Fresh Bay Leaf
½ Teaspoon ½ Dried Oregano
1 Teaspoon 1 Italian Seasoning
Sea Salt (To Taste)
Black Pepper (To Taste)
Step-By-Step Directions
- Brown Your Chicken In A Pot
Before you can do anything else, put your chicken in the pot with a little cooking oil, salt, and pepper. You can use a large pot or a Dutch oven to do this.
Whatever you choose, you need to brown your chicken for two to three minutes per side. Once this is done, take the chicken out of the pot and put it aside for later. - Sauté Your Vegetables
In the pot where you cooked your chicken, toss in your onions and allow them to cook for about two minutes. Once that time has elapsed, add your ginger and garlic (Also check out Easy And Delightful Ginger Garlic Bok Choy Soup), and allow them to cook for about one minute before adding the other ingredients.Â
Next, add celery, carrots, turmeric powder, dried oregano, and Italian herbs. Allow these ingredients to simmer together as you mix them. Allow all these ingredients to cook for one to two minutes. - Add The Rest Of Your Ingredients
Add the rest of your ingredients to the pot, and this should include the following: fresh bay leaves, potatoes, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, potatoes, broth, water, salt, pepper, and chicken breast.
With all the ingredients, you need to ensure that the chicken is entirely submerged in the water and chicken broth. Bring your mixture to a boil and allow it to boil for five minutes. - Allow Your Soup To Simmer For Thirty Minutes
Once your soup has been boiling for five minutes, turn the heat to medium-low and allow it to cook for thirty minutes without the lid on. You will know your soup is done when the potatoes are properly cooked.
The potatoes are cooked when you can easily pierce them with a form. On top of that, ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked before you move on to the next step. - Remove Your chicken And Shred It With Two Forks
Once you know your chicken has cooked through, take it out of the pot. Also, remove the bay leaf and stems of the thyme. Place your chicken on a plate or chopping board.
Shred the chicken into little ribbons using two forks and put it back in your soup pot. At this point, you can taste your soup to see if any additional seasoning is needed. - Dish Up Your Soup And Enjoy!
With that, you should be done. Stir your soup and then scoop some into a bowl to enjoy! You can enjoy this dish with a side or on its own! Regardless, you should have a delightful soup that you cannot stop eating. - Equipment List
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Thermometer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Tongs
Notes
- Opt for organic chicken for a cleaner and richer flavor.
- Fresh herbs, though recommended, can be replaced by dried herbs in lesser quantities.
- Vegetables can be varied as per seasonal availability.
- For a richer broth, consider adding some chicken bones while cooking.
- Always allow the soup to cool before refrigerating to prevent condensation and potential bacterial growth.
- Those sensitive to sodium can reduce salt or opt for a low-sodium broth.
- Consider pureeing some vegetables before adding the chicken back in for a thicker consistency.
- Pairing with whole-grain bread can amplify the meal’s nutritional benefits.
- Over time, the soup may thicken upon refrigeration. Add a bit of water or broth during reheating.
Nutrition Table
