There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of good old fashioned chicken soup. This classic recipe, made from scratch with wholesome ingredients, is not just delicious but also incredibly soothing. Whether you’re under the weather or just craving a heartwarming meal, this chicken soup will take you back to simpler times. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a touch of orzo pasta, it’s a dish that’s both nutritious and filling. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a traditional chicken soup from scratch that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
The beauty of good old fashioned chicken soup lies in its simplicity. It’s quick, easy, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. With its rich broth and tender chicken, this soup can soothe not only your stomach but your soul. It’s a great option for a family-friendly meal, and since it’s made from scratch, you can be sure it’s both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s the perfect comfort food for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients for Good Old Fashioned Chicken Soup
Here’s what you’ll need for the good old fashioned chicken soup:
• Whole Organic Chicken: Provides rich, flavorful broth and tender meat.
• Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Onion: Brings depth to the broth with its savory notes.
• Celery: Contributes a mild crunch and aromatic flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Acts as the base for the soup’s delicious liquid.
• Water: Balances the broth and dilutes it to the right consistency.
• Bay Leaves: Adds subtle herbal flavor to the broth.
• Basil, Parsley, Tarragon: These herbs infuse the soup with freshness and complexity.
• Salt & Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor.
• Orzo Pasta: This small, rice-like pasta adds texture and heartiness to the soup.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for variations or substitutions, consider these alternatives:
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta like rice noodles or ditalini if you need a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Instead of a whole chicken, you can use chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker, leaner option.
• Brown Rice: Swap orzo for brown rice to add fiber and a nutty flavor to the soup.
• Frozen Vegetables: If you’re in a pinch, frozen carrots, celery, and onions can be used in place of fresh ones.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Good Old Fashioned Chicken Soup
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect chicken soup:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken dry and placing it in a large stockpot.
- Add Broth and Water: Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Prep the Vegetables: While the broth is heating, chop your carrots, celery, and onion into chunks.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the broth boils, reduce the heat and add the chopped vegetables, bay leaves, basil, parsley, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup: Allow the soup to simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the chicken cook through.
- Add Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for an additional 15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat off the bones, and return the chicken to the soup.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Chicken Soup
• Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: If you’re using a whole chicken, be careful not to overcook it. Check the meat at the 1-hour mark to ensure it’s tender and juicy.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as necessary. More salt or herbs can be added to suit your taste.
• Store Leftovers Properly: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 7 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
• Freezing Option: You can freeze the soup for up to 6 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This good old fashioned chicken soup is perfect on its own, but here are some ideas to enhance your meal:
• Serve with a Side Salad: A light, tangy green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Crusty Bread or Rolls: A slice of crusty bread or a warm roll is perfect for dipping in the broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan alternative, swap the chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Health Benefits of Good Old Fashioned Chicken Soup
Beyond its comforting taste, good old fashioned chicken soup offers several health benefits. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and herbs makes for a nutrient-packed meal, perfect for boosting your immune system. The broth provides hydration, while the orzo pasta adds a hearty serving of carbohydrates for energy. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and growth. Additionally, the herbs used in this soup—such as parsley and basil—offer anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and promote digestion.
Whether you’re enjoying it for its nostalgic taste or its health benefits, this good old fashioned chicken soup is a recipe everyone will love. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it with your family and savor the comforting flavors of this timeless dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, good old fashioned chicken soup is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and joy with every spoonful. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also delivers a nourishing meal packed with healthy ingredients. The tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth create a perfect balance of taste and texture. Whether you’re looking to soothe a cold or simply enjoy a delicious homemade soup, this classic dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The best part? It’s versatile, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables or pasta to suit your taste. Enjoy this heartwarming recipe with your loved ones and savor the comforting flavors of a truly authentic chicken soup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken. However, using a whole chicken provides a richer broth and more tender meat. If you prefer, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily make good old fashioned chicken soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (including the whole chicken) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, swap the orzo pasta for gluten-free pasta or rice. There are many gluten-free pasta options available, such as rice noodles or ditalini pasta, which work wonderfully in this recipe.
4. How do I store leftovers of chicken soup?
Leftover good old fashioned chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months. When reheating, you may need to add extra broth or water to restore the soup’s consistency.
More Relevant Recipes
- Creamy Orzo Pasta with Butternut Squash: A comforting dish with a rich, creamy sauce, orzo pasta, and roasted butternut squash. The sweet, nutty flavors complement the creaminess, making it a great fall-inspired meal, similar to the comforting nature of chicken soup.
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Gravy: For a more hands-off meal, this slow cooker chicken and gravy recipe features tender chicken cooked in a savory, flavorful gravy. It’s easy to prepare and offers the same comforting qualities as homemade chicken soup, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- Crockpot Chicken Gnocchi Soup: This creamy, hearty soup combines chicken, gnocchi, and vegetables in a savory broth. It’s a wonderful twist on classic chicken soup, adding a soft, pillowy texture from the gnocchi and offering a rich, satisfying meal.
Good Old Fashioned Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This classic recipe for good old fashioned chicken soup is a comforting and nourishing dish filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and orzo pasta. It’s a family favorite that is easy to make and perfect for cold days or when you’re under the weather.
Ingredients
- 1 whole organic chicken (about 2-3 pounds), washed and dried
- 1 pound carrots, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, cut into chunks
- 1 stalk celery, sliced
- 32 ounces chicken broth (organic)
- 2 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons dried tarragon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry inside and out and place it into a large stockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- While the broth is heating, chop the carrots, onion, and celery into chunks.
- Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the chopped vegetables, bay leaves, basil, parsley, tarragon, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
- Let the soup simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
- Add the orzo pasta and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred the meat from the bones, and return the chicken pieces to the soup.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a quicker version, you can use chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, replace the orzo pasta with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 541mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg