Description
Delia Chicken Soup is a traditional, wholesome soup made with chicken, root vegetables, and herbs, all simmered together to create a flavorful and nutritious broth. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that is ideal for lunch or dinner, and its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5kg / 3.3 lbs) – the base of the soup, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 2 carrots – peeled and sliced for sweetness and texture.
- 2 celery stalks – adds freshness and crunch.
- 1 large onion – chopped to form the base of the soup.
- 2 garlic cloves – minced for a subtle flavor.
- 2 bay leaves – add depth to the broth.
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) of chicken stock – to create the flavorful broth.
- Fresh parsley – for garnish.
- Salt and pepper – to taste for seasoning.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken and vegetables
- Begin by chopping the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and set the vegetables aside. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the chicken and stock
- Place the whole chicken into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken stock and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the chicken
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
Step 5: Season and serve
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve the Delia Chicken Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.