Golden Chicken Soup

Warm and comforting, this Golden Chicken Soup is the perfect dish to soothe both body and soul. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken, it’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s simple to prepare. The addition of fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish, making it a refreshing choice any time of year.

Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly day or a nourishing option to boost your spirits, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the heartiness of each spoonful as it warms you from the inside out!

Golden Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 bulb fennel, diced (optional, for added flavor)

2 large carrots, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon dried thyme (or herbs of your choice)

1 pound chicken breast (boneless, skinless)

8-10 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)

Juice of 1 lemon

1 cup wagon wheels or pasta of your choice

Instructions:

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion, celery, fennel, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Seasonings and Chicken:

Add the bay leaf, cracked pepper, salt, and dried herbs to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Place the chicken breast in the pot and pour in the chicken stock. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Chicken:

Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Once cooked, remove the chicken breast from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.

Cook the Pasta:

In a separate pot, cook the wagon wheels or your chosen pasta according to package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Finish the Soup:

Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the soup.

Add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Stir in the cooked pasta.

Serve:

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy your comforting, golden chicken soup!

Tips:

For extra depth, you can roast the chicken beforehand.

Add greens like spinach or kale just before serving for added nutrition.

Feel free to customize with other vegetables you enjoy!

Notes:

Customizable Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or peas can add extra nutrition and color.

Herb Variations: While thyme is used in this recipe, you can experiment with other dried herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley for different flavor profiles.

Chicken Options: For added flavor, consider using bone-in chicken pieces instead of just chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Stock Choices: Homemade chicken stock will enhance the flavor, but store-bought is a convenient option. Choose low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt intake.

Pasta Tips: If you plan to have leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it only to individual servings to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.

Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it and stir it back in, or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.

Garnish Ideas: Fresh herbs, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use leftover chicken instead of raw chicken breast?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works great! Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup toward the end of cooking, just to warm it through.

What if I don’t have chicken stock?

If you don’t have chicken stock, you can use vegetable broth or even water.

Just be aware that the flavor may be less rich.

You can enhance it with additional seasonings.

Is it possible to make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

If freezing, it’s best to add the pasta just before serving to avoid it becoming mushy.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Yes, feel free to customize the soup by adding more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or green beans.

Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If freezing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Be sure to leave out the pasta if you plan to freeze it.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.

What type of pasta works best in this soup?

While wagon wheels are fun, any small pasta like elbow macaroni, orzo, or ditalini will work well.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

Additionally, ensure that the chicken stock is labeled gluten-free.

Can I add more herbs for extra flavor?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can enhance the flavor.

Just add them toward the end of cooking to keep their freshness.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or crackers.

You can also top it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor!