This Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup is a hearty and comforting recipe, which is made with chicken and includes vegetables. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour.
Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup Ingredients
- 1 (3-pound) whole chicken
- 4 carrots, halved
- 4 stalks celery, halved
- 1 large onion, halved
- Water, to cover
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (optional)
How To Make Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup
- Boil the ingredients to create the stock: Place the whole chicken, carrots, celery, and onion into a large soup pot. Add enough cold water to cover everything. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 90 minutes. Skim any foam that rises to the surface. The chicken is ready when the meat is falling off the bone.
- Remove the chicken and vegetables: Carefully take the chicken out of the pot and set it aside to cool. Use a slotted spoon to remove the carrots, celery, and onion, and set them aside.
- Shred the chicken and chop the vegetables: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Chop the reserved carrots, celery, and onion into smaller, manageable pieces.
- Finish the soup: Pour the rich chicken stock back into the pot, along with the shredded chicken and chopped vegetables. Warm the soup through until everything is heated. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional chicken bouillon granules if you want more flavor. Serve hot.
Recipe Tips
- Skim the broth: While simmering, a foamy layer will form on top. It’s important to skim this off with a large spoon to ensure your finished soup has a clear, clean-tasting broth.
- Don’t over-chop the vegetables initially: Cutting the vegetables into large pieces allows them to slowly infuse flavor into the stock without becoming mushy or falling apart during the long simmer time. You will chop them smaller after straining.
- Let the chicken cool: Be sure to let the cooked chicken cool down before you start handling it. This makes it much easier and safer to remove the meat from the bone.
- Save the leftovers: This recipe makes a large batch, so it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can easily store the leftovers for quick and hearty lunches throughout the week.
What To Serve Chicken Soup
This classic soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A warm, crusty bread or a slice of buttered toast is perfect for dipping. For a heartier meal, you can serve it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. If you want to add more to the soup itself, a handful of egg noodles or rice can be cooked in the broth just before serving.
How To Store Chicken Soup Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken? Yes, you can. Using bone-in chicken thighs, legs, or a mix of parts will still create a flavorful stock. The bones are essential for developing a rich, deep flavor, so avoid using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the initial simmering.
- How do I get a clearer broth? The key to a clearer broth is to not let the soup boil vigorously and to consistently skim the foam from the surface as it simmers. You can also strain the final stock through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth for an even clearer result.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. You can add other root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes. For a pop of color and flavor, stir in some frozen peas, corn, or chopped fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Try More Recipes:
- Hairy Bikers Chicken Jalfrezi Recipe
- Hairy Bikers Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe
- Hairy Bikers Cheese Potato Pie Recipe
Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup Recipe
Description
This hearty Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a savory and rich broth made from a whole chicken simmered with carrots, celery, and onion. This recipe creates a tender, nourishing soup that is perfect for a chilly day and great for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Create the stock: Place all ingredients into a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 90 minutes, skimming foam as needed.
- Remove and prepare the chicken and vegetables: Take out the chicken and vegetables. Once cool, shred the chicken meat and chop the vegetables into smaller pieces.
- Combine and serve: Return the shredded chicken and chopped vegetables to the stock. Warm the soup through and season to taste with salt and pepper.
