Marry Me Chicken Soup
Enjoy a heartwarming bowl of Marry Me Chicken Soup—a nutrient-packed dish with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a savory broth. Quick to prepare and perfect for cozy evenings, it's a comforting meal that nourishes both body and soul.
Ingredients
Organic Chicken:
- Choose bone-in skin-on pieces for maximum flavor and a richer broth. The tender meat not only adds protein but also infuses the soup with depth.
Chicken Broth or Bone Broth:
- A quality broth serves as the heart of the soup. Opt for low-sodium versions if you’re watching your salt intake or make your own for an extra layer of taste.
Fresh Vegetables:
- Carrots: Sliced into bite-sized pieces for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Celery: Adds crunch and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Onions: Finely chopped to create a fragrant base.
Aromatic Herbs and Spices:
- Garlic: Minced to release its robust savory essence.
- Thyme and Bay Leaves: For a delicate herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Red Pepper Flakes optional: A pinch to give the soup a gentle kick, if you like a bit of spice.
Seasonings:
- A dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper rounds out the flavors. Remember these simple seasonings are key to balancing the natural tastes of your fresh ingredients.
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients:
- Rinse and pat dry the organic chicken pieces.
- Slice carrots and celery into uniform bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the onions and mince the garlic.
- Measure out your herbs and spices, including thyme, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
- This step builds the flavor foundation, so don’t rush it!
Brown the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in the pot, skin-side down, and sear them until they develop a golden-brown crust (approximately 5 minutes per side).
- Browning the chicken not only locks in flavor but also enhances the richness of your broth.
Build Your Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth or bone broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
- Add your prepared carrots, celery, and a few bay leaves along with thyme. This is where the soup starts to transform into a comforting, nutrient-packed meal.
Simmer for Depth:
- Allow the soup to simmer for 30-45 minutes.
- During this time, the flavors meld beautifully while the chicken becomes tender and succulent.
- Skim off any foam or excess fat that rises to the top to maintain a clean, clear broth.
Final Seasoning:
- Taste your soup and add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes as needed.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually—remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
Rest and Serve:
- Once your soup is perfectly flavored and the chicken is tender, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
- Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of color and aroma.