Nothing beats the magic of a simmering pot of Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot when the weather turns chilly or sniffles start creeping in. This is the exact soup my mom would make whenever I came home sick from school, steamy bowls full of tender chicken, sweet carrots, and that incredible broth that somehow fixes everything. What makes it special? Simple ingredients transform into liquid comfort with healing powers. Whether you’re fighting a cold, needing a nutrient boost, or just craving that hug-in-a-bowl feeling, this recipe delivers every time. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s been my family’s secret weapon for generations.
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot
This isn’t just any chicken soup, it’s the kind that wraps you in warmth from the first sip. Here’s why it’s become my go-to recipe for everything from lazy Sundays to sniffle season:
- Comfort in every spoonful: That rich, golden broth and tender chicken? Pure nostalgia. It’s like getting hugged from the inside out.
- Nature’s medicine cabinet: Packed with garlic, onions, and bone broth, this immune-boosting chicken soup is my first defense when colds come knocking.
- Set-it-and-forget-it easy: One pot, simple ingredients, and minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy chicken soup recipe fast.
- Your canvas, your rules: Throw in extra veggies, swap noodles for cauliflower rice, or add a kick of heat. It’s endlessly adaptable!
- Meal prep magic: Makes a big batch that tastes even better the next day (and freezes like a dream for those “I can’t cook tonight” moments).
Seriously, this pot of goodness checks all the boxes, healing, hearty, and so darn satisfying. My kids beg for it, my neighbors ask for the recipe, and my freezer always has a stash!
PrintHealing Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot in Just 60 Minutes
A comforting Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot that warms you up and boosts your health. Perfect for cold days, flu recovery, or a nutritious meal.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs)
- 8 cups water
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Place chicken in a large pot with water. Bring to a boil.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove chicken, shred meat, and return to pot.
- Discard bones and bay leaf. Serve hot.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for quick meals later.
- Add noodles or rice if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients for Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot
Gathering ingredients for this soul-warming soup is half the joy! Here’s what you’ll need to create that perfect balance of flavor and comfort:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs): Trust me, bone-in makes all the difference for that rich, golden broth
- 8 cups water: Sounds simple, but it’s the liquid gold that becomes your healing elixir
- 2 carrots, chopped: Sweet little orange coins that soften beautifully
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: The quiet hero that adds subtle depth
- 1 onion, diced: The flavor foundation – don’t skip!
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Nature’s antibiotic packed with goodness
- 1 tsp salt + 1/2 tsp black pepper: The dynamic duo that makes everything sing
- 1 tsp thyme + 1 bay leaf: These non-negotiables create that signature homestyle aroma
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
While I’m pretty particular about my thyme and bay leaf (they’re the secret weapons!), here’s how to make this your own:
- No celery? Try fennel for a similar crunch with a licorice twist
- Keto version: Swap carrots for zucchini to make this a low-carb chicken soup recipe
- Extra flavor boost: Toss in a few slices of turkey bacon while simmering
- Gluten-free? Use rice or gluten-free noodles instead of traditional pasta
- Vegetable lovers: Throw in a handful of spinach or kale at the end
The beauty of this soup? It’s forgiving and flexible – just like grandma’s cooking should be!
How to Make Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot
Alright, let’s get that pot bubbling! This one-pot chicken soup couldn’t be simpler, but I’ll walk you through each step like we’re cooking together in my kitchen:
- Start with the chicken: Place your whole bird right in the pot with 8 cups of water. Bring it to a rolling boil – I always peek to watch those first bubbles dance!
- Add your aromatics: Toss in those chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and don’t you dare forget the bay leaf (it’s the secret to that deep, comforting flavor).
- Simmer magic: Reduce heat to low and let it gently bubble for 1 hour. Your kitchen will smell like heaven, and that chicken will become fork-tender.
- Shred time: Fish out the chicken (careful, it’s hot!) and let it cool just enough to handle. Then get your hands in there – shredding is the most satisfying part!
- Final assembly: Return the juicy chicken to the pot, discard bones and bay leaf, and give it one last stir. That’s it – soup’s on!
Pro Tips for Perfect Soup
- Skim the good stuff: After boiling, I use a spoon to skim off any foam or fat for a crystal-clear broth – perfect for when you need the best chicken soup for cold and sore throat.
- Sauté first: If you’ve got 5 extra minutes, sauté the veggies in a bit of oil before adding water. It deepens the flavor like you wouldn’t believe!
- Freeze smart: Pour leftover broth into ice cube trays – instant flavor bombs for future rice or sauces. My freezer always has a stash!
Serving & Storing Your Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot
Oh, the joy of ladling steaming bowls of this golden goodness! Here’s how I love to serve and save every last drop:
- Perfect pairings: Dunk crusty sourdough (my weakness!) or serve with a crisp kale salad for that perfect crunch contrast. When I’m extra hungry, I’ll toss in a handful of egg noodles right before serving.
- Fridge friendly: Stays fresh for 3 days – the flavors actually deepen overnight! Pro tip for easy chicken soup for beginners: label containers with dates so you don’t forget.
- Freezer magic: Portion into mason jars (leave headspace!) and freeze for up to 3 months. Nothing beats finding a jar on a busy night – instant comfort!
P.S. That thin layer of fat on top when chilled? That’s liquid gold – just stir it back in when reheating!
Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot Variations
One of my favorite things about this recipe? It’s like a cozy sweater – you can dress it up however you like! Here are the variations I make most often when I want to switch things up:
- Keto Comfort: Swap carrots for zucchini spirals and add cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb. My neighbor swears this version helped her stick to her diet!
- Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a can of coconut milk during the last 10 minutes for a silky, dairy-free twist that feels indulgent.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne when sautéing the onions – perfect for clearing sinuses!
Short on time? Use pre-cooked chicken and simmer for just 30 minutes – it still makes a fantastic 30-minute chicken soup. For a paleo chicken soup recipe, just skip any noodles and load up on extra veggies. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Benefits of Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot
Now let’s talk about why this soup is practically medicine in a bowl! (Disclaimer: exact values change based on your ingredients, but here’s the scoop on why it’s so good for you.) That golden broth packs collagen from simmering bones, giving you protein that keeps you full and supports your skin. With only 450mg sodium per serving, it’s way better than canned versions – perfect for a low-calorie chicken soup option.
The garlic and onions bring natural anti-inflammatory powers, making this my go-to anti-inflammatory chicken soup when joints ache. And here’s a fun fact: the warmth actually helps burn calories as your body works to cool down – no wonder it’s called a fat-burning chicken soup recipe! Between the protein, vitamins from the veggies, and healing properties, every spoonful delivers serious chicken soup benefits. Visit familytastes.com for more great recipes.
FAQs About Cozy Homestyle Chicken Soup Pot
Can I use boneless chicken? Absolutely! While bone-in chicken gives richer flavor, boneless thighs or breasts work in a pinch. Just reduce simmer time to 30 minutes.
Is it freezer-friendly? Oh yes! Freeze portions for up to 3 months. I always stash single-serve jars for quick lunches – they thaw beautifully!
How to make it keto? Easy swap: skip carrots and toss in zucchini instead. Cauliflower rice makes it a perfect low-carb chicken soup recipe.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot? You bet! Pressure cook on high for 25 minutes for tender chicken – perfect instant pot chicken soup when you’re short on time.
Is this good for kids? My picky eaters devour it! For chicken soup for kids, I sometimes blend the veggies smooth before adding shredded chicken.
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