You’ve arrived home after a cold, grey day, and the thought of rummaging through the fridge makes you sigh. You need something warm, nourishing and straightforward, and that’s exactly why this chicken soup recipe is your go‑to.
With the right ingredients and a bit of time, you’ll be serving a bowl that comforts your body and soul. Plus, choosing high‑quality chicken like our Gingin grass‑fed free range chicken means you’re investing in both flavour and health.
Read on to discover how to make this simple comfort dish, why it works so well for cold days, and how you can make it your own.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients List
Before you pull out the pot, gather your ingredients for the chicken soup recipe:
Main Ingredients
- 600 g chicken (breast or thighs), trimmed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 parsnip or 1 sweet potato (optional), cubed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme or a sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 litre low‑sodium chicken stock or water
- Salt and freshly‑ground black pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Optional Add‑Ons
- Noodles, rice or barley (for extra heartiness)
- Frozen peas or corn for colour and sweetness
- A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavours
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make This Chicken Soup Recipe
Let’s walk through the preparation of the chicken soup recipe so you can feel confident in the kitchen.
Step 1: Sauté the Base
In a large heavy‑bottomed pot, warm 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots and celery. Cook for 5‑6 minutes until the onions are translucent and the veggies start to soften. This builds flavour from the ground up.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Stock
Add the Gingin grass‑fed free-range chicken pieces to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock (or water) until the chicken is just covered. Toss in the bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Add Veggies & Final Touches
If you included parsnip or sweet potato, add them now. Simmer for another 10‑15 minutes until all veggies are tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature at least 75 °C). Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavour, add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir through chopped parsley or dill.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. If you like, serve with a side of crusty bread or whole‑grain roll. The steam will rise, your kitchen will fill with aroma, and you’ll have a bowl that comforts and warms you.
How to Customise the Recipe for You
You don’t have to stick strictly to the base recipe. Here are ways to customise your chicken soup recipe:
Add Grains or Noodles
Want something more filling? Stir in cooked rice, barley or egg noodles during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They absorb flavour and add texture.
Make It Gluten‑Free
Use rice or quinoa instead of wheat noodles. Or skip grains entirely and pile in extra vegetables for a lighter version.
Boost the Greens
Toss in a handful of spinach or kale a minute before you remove the pot from the heat. This adds colour, nutrients and freshness.
Spice It Up
If you like warmth, add a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of smoked paprika. The heat can help open up your sinuses and give extra comfort.
One‑Pot Slow Cooker Version
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 4‑6 hours. It’s perfect for busy days or when you want it ready for dinner.
Serving Suggestions & Sides
This chicken soup recipe shines when paired with the right sides. Try:
- A slice of whole‑grain or sourdough bread, toasted with butter.
- A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.
- Steamed seasonal vegetables lightly seasoned.
- A side of cheese and crackers if you want something savoury and extra.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest chicken soup recipe can go a bit off if you’re not careful. Here are some pitfalls to watch:
- Over‑cooking the chicken: It can become dry or stringy. Remove once tender and cooked through.
- Too little seasoning: A good salt and pepper finish makes a big difference. Taste before serving.
- Big chunks of vegetables: They may cook unevenly; slice moderately so everything finishes together.
- Using high‑sodium stock without checking: If you’re using store‑bought stock, check the salt; add seasoning accordingly.
- Skipping herbs or garnish: Fresh parsley, dill, or lemon lifts the soup and gives it that home‑cooked edge.
Final Thoughts
We at Gingin Beef believe that a truly good meal starts with the right ingredients and a caring process. This homemade chicken soup recipe for cold days shows you exactly how easy it is to craft something nourishing, delicious and warming, even when time is tight.
By choosing from a cut of our free range chicken, you’re raising the standard of what goes into your bowl. We’re proud to offer chicken that comes from ethical farms and delivers real flavour. Give this recipe a go tonight, then explore more meal ideas for the weekend.
Ready to order or learn more? Call us on (08) 6186 5450 and treat yourself to comfort, quality and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long should I simmer the chicken for the soup?
You should simmer until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, typically around 30 minutes total after adding the stock.
2. Can I use leftovers or a whole chicken for this recipe?
Yes. You could use leftover cooked chicken or pull meat from a roasted whole chicken. Reduce seasoning accordingly and add the meat later to avoid over‑cooking.
3. Is homemade chicken soup better than store‑bought?
Generally yes. Homemade lets you control ingredients, reduce sodium, and include fresh vegetables.
4. Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
If you want a vegan version, you’ll need to substitute the chicken with tofu or beans, use vegetable stock and adjust seasoning. It won’t be a “chicken soup” per se, but still could be comforting.
5. What’s the best way to freeze this soup?
Let the soup cool, then portion into freezer‑safe containers leaving headspace for expansion. Label with date and keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight and heat gently.