Appalachian Chicken Soup: A Simple, Comforting Bowl of Goodness

When the temperature starts to drop, or you’re just in the mood for something warm and cozy, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade Appalachian Chicken Soup. This hearty, nourishing soup is inspired by the traditions of the Appalachian region, where simple ingredients and comforting flavors come together to create wholesome dishes.

This recipe features tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fragrant herbs simmered in a savory broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather. Plus, with its minimal ingredients and easy steps, this chicken soup is a go-to for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Let’s dive into this humble yet deeply satisfying recipe!

Why You’ll Love Appalachian Chicken Soup

Hearty and comforting: This chicken soup provides the perfect balance of vegetables, protein, and flavorful broth.
Simple ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easily accessible.
Healthy: Packed with lean protein from chicken and plenty of veggies.

Easy to make: With minimal prep and easy-to-follow steps, it’s great for beginners.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and store it for later meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: You can choose between white or dark meat, depending on your preference. Chicken thighs add more richness, while breasts are leaner.

4 cups chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, low-sodium chicken broth works best for controlling the salt level.
1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a fragrant aroma.

2 carrots, chopped: Provides a touch of sweetness and color.
2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle earthy flavor and crunch.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a woodsy, aromatic note to the soup.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Adjust the seasoning according to your liking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Appalachian Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the oil: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and the onions are translucent. This step allows the vegetables to release their natural sweetness and creates the base flavor of the soup.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth

Add the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. The chicken will cook directly in the broth, infusing the soup with rich flavor.
Pour in the broth: Pour the 4 cups of chicken broth into the pot, making sure the chicken is fully submerged.
Season with thyme: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for a touch of earthy flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring to a boil: Turn up the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

If using chicken thighs, they may need a few extra minutes to cook through due to their slightly higher fat content.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board.
Shred the chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop the chicken into small chunks if you prefer.
Return to the pot: Add the shredded chicken back into the soup and stir to combine.

Step 5: Final Taste and Serve

Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy! Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Appalachian Chicken Soup

Tip 1: Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor

For a richer, more flavorful broth, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs instead of boneless. Simply remove the bones and shred the meat once the chicken is cooked, and return the shredded meat to the soup.

Tip 2: Boost the Vegetables

Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or green beans to the soup. They will absorb the savory broth and add even more texture and nutrition.

Tip 3: Make It a Creamy Soup

If you want a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking. Alternatively, you could blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker consistency.

Tip 4: Cook in a Slow Cooker

For a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the chicken and broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, shred the chicken, and it’s ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to make this soup. Simply skip the simmering step with the raw chicken and add your shredded cooked chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat it through.

Q2: How can I store the soup?

You can store this chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Q3: Can I freeze Appalachian Chicken Soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Once it has cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.

Q4: Can I add noodles or rice to this soup?

While traditional Appalachian Chicken Soup is made without noodles, you can easily add them for a heartier meal. Cook noodles or rice separately and add them to the soup just before serving to avoid them becoming mushy in the broth.

Q5: How can I make this soup more filling?

To make this soup more filling, consider adding grains like quinoa, barley, or farro. Cook them separately and add them to each bowl just before serving. This adds extra fiber and nutrients to the dish.

Appalachian Chicken Soup is a timeless recipe that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to enjoy on a lazy weekend, this simple soup delivers every time. Its rustic flavors, paired with the ease of preparation, make it a must-try for home cooks everywhere. Enjoy!