Description
A soulful, Southern-style homemade chicken soup inspired by Georgia family roots, culinary school precision, and Texas boldness. Comfort in every spoonful, perfect for chilly nights or nostalgic cravings.
Ingredients
2 bone-in chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery ribs, sliced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
1 sprig thyme (optional)
1/2 cup cooked noodles (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear until golden (about 5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. Lower heat and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft and fragrant, about 6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
4. Nestle chicken back into the pot. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and let simmer for 45 minutes.
6. Remove chicken, shred, and return meat to the pot.
7. Stir in cooked noodles or grains if using; adjust seasoning.
8. Garnish with thyme or parsley. Optionally stir in honey garlic glaze for richness.
Notes
Try adding miso paste, beef, coconut milk, or fish sauce for fun twists.
Substitute leeks for onion, sweet potatoes for carrots, or bone broth for extra depth.
Use as a base for risotto, gravy, or casseroles later in the week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: chicken soup, comfort food, homemade, southern twist