Bone Broth Chicken Soup Recipe

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If you’re searching for a soup that’s both comforting and nourishing, look no further than this Bone Broth Chicken Soup. It’s a soul-warming blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich bone broth that creates a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures. This soup is not only incredibly tasty but loaded with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any day you want something hearty yet light. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting together the ingredients for this Bone Broth Chicken Soup is wonderfully straightforward. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s lending sweetness, earthiness, or that satisfying meaty depth to the bowl. Together, they create a symphony of taste and color that’s both inviting and nourishing.

• 10 oz boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs: The star protein, providing tender and juicy chunks that soak up all the broth flavors.
• 1 cup diced carrots: Adds a subtle sweetness and lovely orange color that brightens the soup.
• 1 cup chopped celery: Brings a fresh, crisp texture and aromatic base to the mix.
• 1 small yellow onion or half of a large onion: Builds depth and a natural savory backbone in the broth.
• 2 garlic cloves: Gives a fragrant warmth and an irresistible savory punch.
• 1.5 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies perfectly and adds smooth richness.
• 4 cups chicken bone broth: The heart of the soup, loaded with flavor and nourishing vitamins.
• 2 cups water: Balances the broth intensity, making sure it’s just right.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds subtle, earthy herbiness that complements the chicken beautifully.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a delicate hint of heat and sharpness.
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who crave a gentle, spicy kick in their soup.
• 1 cup cooked brown rice, farro, orzo, or egg noodles (optional): Boosts heartiness and adds a delightful bite.
• Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish: Fresh herbs enhance the aroma and bring vibrant green contrast.

How to Make Bone Broth Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or thick-bottomed stockpot over medium heat. Add your diced carrots, celery, and chopped onion. Cooking them gently for about 5 to 6 minutes softens the veggies and brings out their natural sweetness, forming the flavor foundation your Bone Broth Chicken Soup depends on.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, toss in the minced garlic cloves along with the dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and the optional cayenne pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute more. This brief step allows the garlic’s fragrance to bloom and the spices to meld with the softened vegetables, creating a beautifully aromatic base.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Water

Now it’s time for the star ingredient – the chicken bone broth – along with the water. Pour in 4 cups of bone broth and 2 cups of water to your pot, combining the intensely flavorful broth with refreshing hydration. This mixture will give your soup its soul and make every spoonful so satisfying.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place your raw chicken breasts or thighs right into the pot and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially. Let the soup simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken becomes tender and bubbly with goodness. This slow simmer extracts flavor and ensures juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat.

Step 5: Shred and Return the Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to your simmering soup, so it can soak up even more of those rich, comforting flavors of the Bone Broth Chicken Soup.

Step 6: Add Optional Grains or Noodles

If you love a bit of extra substance, stir in your cooked brown rice, farro, or noodles at this stage. This gives the soup an extra layer of texture and heartiness that will delight both kids and adults alike. Give the soup a taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed before serving.

How to Serve Bone Broth Chicken Soup

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or dill sprinkled on top adds a burst of herbal brightness and a fresh aroma that truly elevates the soup’s presentation. These garnishes don’t just look pretty—they add delightful layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of artisan bread, a crisp green salad, or even roasted vegetables. Each side dish complements the warm, nourishing qualities of Bone Broth Chicken Soup, making your meal truly balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to add creaminess. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts or Parmesan shavings on top for an unexpected twist. Presentation is all about making each bowl feel like a comforting hug.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your Bone Broth Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners when life gets busy.

Freezing

This soup freezes incredibly well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. When you want a nourishing meal, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and you’re good to go!

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth. If it has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, just add a splash of water or broth to bring back the perfect consistency without losing any flavor.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw?

Absolutely! Use leftover cooked chicken by adding it after the vegetables have simmered in the broth for about 15 minutes. This shortcut saves cooking time and still gives you all the delicious flavors of the Bone Broth Chicken Soup.

Is bone broth necessary, or can I use regular chicken broth?

While regular chicken broth works, bone broth adds a richer taste and extra nutrients that make this soup especially comforting and wholesome. Bone broth is deeply flavorful thanks to the collagen and minerals extracted from chicken bones during simmering.

Can I make this soup low carb?

Definitely! Simply swap out the rice or noodles for cauliflower rice or omit them entirely. The soup will still be filling and full of flavor without the extra carbs.

How long does it take to cook the chicken thighs versus breasts?

Chicken thighs usually need a bit more time to become tender—up to 40 minutes—while breasts typically cook fully by 30 minutes. To save time, you can also cut the raw chicken into smaller pieces before cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Yes, feel free to tuck in other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or peas near the end of cooking to add more color and nutrients. Just remember vegetables like spinach only need a few minutes to wilt and shouldn’t be overcooked.

Final Thoughts

This Bone Broth Chicken Soup truly feels like a warm hug in a bowl that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s a recipe that brings joy to the table whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy night in by yourself. I can’t wait for you to try making it and experience just how comforting and delicious homemade bone broth chicken soup can be!

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