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Chicken Soup

This classic homemade chicken soup is the ultimate high-protein comfort food, offering a deep, savoury flavour that only a slow-simmered broth can provide. By using a whole chicken alongside additional cuts and aromatic root vegetables, you create a nutrient-dense base that is both restorative and satisfying. The addition of fresh dill at the final stage provides a subtle, herbal lift that perfectly complements the richness of the golden, homemade poultry stock.

Ideal for chilly evenings or as a nourishing meal when you are feeling under the weather, this versatile soup fits effortlessly into a healthy lifestyle. You can enjoy the clear, fragrant broth on its own for a lighter option, or make it a heartier affair by adding traditional matzo balls, ribbon noodles, or fluffy grains. It is a timeless, high-protein staple that deserves a place in every home cook's repertoire.

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Ingredients for Chicken Soup

  • 450g chicken parts

  • 2 stalks celery, including leafy tops, cut into 3-inch pieces

  • 1 whole chicken, thoroughly rinsed

  • Salt to rub inside chicken

  • 1 large whole onion, unpeeled (find one with a firm, golden-brown peel)

  • 1 large whole carrot, peeled

  • 1 medium whole parsnip, peeled

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons pepper

  • 1 bunch of dill, cleaned and tied with a string

  • Optional additions: Cooked egg noodles, rice, kasha, or matzo balls

Pour 2875ml cold water into a large stockpot, and throw in the chicken parts and celery. Bring to a boil. While water is heating, rub the inside of the whole chicken with salt.

Add the chicken to the pot, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. Test chicken with a fork to see if it's tender and fully cooked; then remove it from the pot, and set aside on a large platter. Leave chicken parts in the pot.

Add onion, carrot, parsnip, salt, and pepper. Let soup simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

When chicken cools, remove skin and bones and cut into bite-sized pieces. You can add it to the soup, just before serving, or save it for chicken salad.

Strain the soup, and discard everything solid except for the carrot.

Drop in the dill for a minute before serving and remove. Add salt and pepper to taste. Slice carrot and toss into soup. Also add the chicken pieces if desired. Add cooked noodles, rice, kasha, or matzo balls, if using.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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