Healing Chicken Soup: 8 Benefits for Recovery

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Healing Chicken Soup has been a go-to remedy for generations, bringing warmth and comfort to those in need. This homemade chicken soup is made with a rich healing broth, tender chicken, and a variety of nutrient-dense vegetables, all working together to soothe both body and soul. The recipe is simple yet effective, making it an essential addition to any kitchen, especially during cold and flu season. Let’s dive into the details of this nourishing dish!

Why You’ll Love This Healing Chicken Soup

This nutritional chicken soup is more than just a meal; it’s a healing remedy. Here are some reasons to love it:

Rich in vitamins and minerals, this soup promotes better health.
The healing broth provides hydration and essential nutrients.
Ideal for colds and flu, making it a comforting chicken soup for illness.
Contains immune-boosting ingredients to help you recover faster.
Easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
Great as a meal prep option, perfect for those on the go.
It is a chicken soup for the soul, warming your heart and spirit.

Ingredients for Healing Chicken Soup

Gather these items:

3-4 pound whole fresh chicken (giblets removed)
2 large yellow onions (peeled and halved)
1 head garlic (cut in half horizontally)
½ small jalapeno (seeded and ribs removed)
2 dried bay leaves
½ teaspoon kosher salt (+ more to taste)
½ tablespoon peppercorns (or 1 teaspoon ground black pepper)
12 cups water
2 large Yukon Gold potatoes (scrubbed and cut into ½-inch cubes)
2 large sweet potatoes (scrubbed, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes)
3 large carrots (peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes)
1 teaspoon reduced sodium soy sauce
1 large lemon (juiced)

How to Make Healing Chicken Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Remove giblets, gravy packet, thermometer, or plastic ties from the chicken and discard. Place the chicken into a large stock pot or Dutch Oven. Add onions, garlic, jalapeño, bay leaves, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and peppercorns. Cover with 12 cups water.
Step 2: Bring the stock to a simmer over medium heat. Remove any cloudy material that rises to the top of the broth with a fine-mesh strainer and discard.
Step 3: Once the soup is simmering, turn the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
Step 4: Remove the chicken and place it on a cutting board. Strain the broth using a colander over a large bowl or fish out the solids with a spoon.
Step 5: Optional: Refrigerate broth to let fat consolidate. Scoop out and discard the fat.
Step 6: If needed, return the broth to the soup pan and bring back to a simmer. Add potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and soy sauce. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
Step 7: While vegetables simmer, prepare the chicken. Remove the skin and discard. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Measure out 2-3 cups of chicken for the soup.
Step 8: Once vegetables are tender, add 2-3 cups of shredded chicken to the soup and simmer for 2-5 minutes.
Step 9: Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Healing Chicken Soup

Keep these in mind:

This soup is comforting and nutritious.
Feel free to add other vegetables to suit your taste.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley.

Best Ways to Serve Healing Chicken Soup

Here are a few serving ideas:

Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Add a dollop of sour cream for richness.
Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete dinner.

How to Store and Reheat Healing Chicken Soup

For storage, simply place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate. To reheat, bring the soup back to a simmer over medium heat. This soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to have comforting chicken soup ready at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healing Chicken Soup

What is healing chicken soup?

Healing chicken soup is a nutritious soup made with chicken, vegetables, and healing broth, designed to support recovery and soothe ailments. It’s especially beneficial for colds and flu, acting as a comforting remedy for sickness.

Can I make healing chicken soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare healing chicken soup in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep during busy weeks.

How do I avoid common mistakes with healing chicken soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Additionally, be mindful of seasoning—taste as you go to achieve the best flavor for your healing broth.

Variations of Healing Chicken Soup You Can Try

Explore these variations to customize your soup:

Add leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Incorporate quinoa for added protein and texture.
Use different types of beans for a hearty twist.
Experiment with spices, such as turmeric or ginger, for anti-inflammatory benefits.

Healing Chicken Soup with fresh vegetables

For more delicious recipes, check out Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Creamy Garlic Crab Stuffed. You can also learn about the benefits of chicken soup for health on Healthline.