Image by Karolina Kołodziejczak

Chicken soup

As the first chill of fall creeps across the land, one dish stands high above all others as a clear harbinger of the season – chicken soup. Be it from scratch or from a can, chicken soup is an essential part of the harvest equation.

Chicken soup

Made with varying levels of complexity, this venerable fricassee brings together savory vegetables, succulent chicken, and an abundance of herbs, all simmered in a savory broth. The result is a hearty alchemy that provides sustenance to body and soul alike.

Warmth and flavor aside, the real draw of chicken soup is its symbiosis with health and wellness. All over the world, cultures have extoled its success in relieving ailments ranging from the common cold to the most debilitating of illnesses. Rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and good-for-you fats, the dish serves as a nourishing force against whatever ails us, be it physical or emotional.

But let us not forget the deliciousness inherent in this palatable panacea. Chicken soup is more than a home remedy – it's a timeless specialty of both comfort and joy. Each spoonful delivers a different bouquet of flavor, and all of it comes together seamlessly in a perfectly balanced sip of warmth.

For centuries, people have been crafting variations of this timeless treat, bringing together unique combinations of flavors, textures, and ingredients to create something truly remarkable. From traditional German recipes to Indian curries, chicken soup knows no boundaries, adapting itself to cuisines from around the world.

Whether it's winter, spring, summer, or fall, chicken soup reigns supreme amongst the culinary canon of comfort food. So don't hesitate. Call up your friends, gather around the table, and whisk away the chill of the season with a steaming hot bowl of this fragrant fricassee. Your taste buds, body, and soul will thank you.

The origin of Chicken soup

With cooler temperatures and shorter days of autumn, there’s no better time to break out the comforting chicken soup – for many, a favorite staple and ultimate comfort food. But did you know that this classic dish can actually be traced back to ancient Roman times?

It is believed that the origin of chicken soup has its roots in the ancient Roman Empire and likely goes even further back. Ancient Romans were known to have been great experimenters with food, combining various ingredients and flavors to create unique dishes. Chicken was one of the main proteins consumed by the Romans, so it follows that they eventually combined pieces of cooked poultry with vegetables and spices to make a type of chicken soup.

The world-famous soup didn’t gain popularity until much later, however, when European cuisine was beginning to take shape. Since then, many different cultures have put their own spins on the recipe – from Moroccan harira to Mexican pozole and French bouillabaisse. Each of these versions features traditional regional ingredients, giving them their distinct flavors.

In the United States, chicken soup is a beloved nationwide staple, appearing in many regional, ethnic, and home-cooked recipes. It’s perhaps best known for its purported healing properties – in particular, its ability to soothe a sore throat or lessen the symptoms of a cold – and its warmth and coziness on those cold winter nights. Of course, it’s the key ingredient – chicken – that makes it a delicious, healthy, and much-loved dish around the world.

While we may never know who first created chicken soup, we can thank our ancestor’s curiosity and invention for bringing this delicious dish into our lives today.

FAQs about Chicken soup

How does Gordon Ramsay make chicken soup?

To make a chicken soup according to Gordon Ramsay, start by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding butter. Once the butter is melted, sauté diced onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and herbs for 6 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Next, add in chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.

Once the vegetables are cooked, add in cooked, shredded chicken, egg noodles, and chopped parsley or other herbs. Bring the pot back to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer until the noodles are cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with crusty bread and enjoy.


What can I add to my chicken soup to make it tastier?

- Fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, basil, or parsley
- A teaspoon of curry powder
- A few cloves of garlic
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- A splash of white wine
- Chopped fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, peppers, or mushrooms
- Cooked rice, barley, quinoa, or noodles
- Crumbled bacon or sausage
- Toasted nuts or seeds
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- A dollop of Greek yogurt


What gives chicken soup the most flavor?

Chicken soup typically gets its flavor from ingredients like onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and parsley. Chicken stock or broth also adds flavor to the soup.


Why is chicken soup so healthy for you?

Chicken soup is a healthy dish because it is rich in nutrients like protein, vitmains and minerals. The bone broth in the soup is also full of health-boosting compounds like collagen and amino acids that can help strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation and protect the digestive system. The vegetables often in chicken soup are also a great source of fiber and antioxidants which can help with digestion and boost the overall nutrition of the dish.


Types of Chicken soup

Ah, the classic chicken soup. It brings smiles to our faces and warms our hearts - it’s no wonder it’s considered as comfort food. But did you know there’s more than one type of chicken soup? From the savory to the spicy, you’re bound to find a favorite to tantalize your taste buds.

One of the most popular versions of this delicious dish is the classic chicken noodle soup. It features tender, juicy chicken, a flavorful broth, and noodles that fill your tummy with warmth and joy. Of course, if noodles aren’t your thing, you can always opt for the rice variety! This variation includes hearty pieces of chicken and a rich sauce. If you’re in the mood for something with kick, taste Mexican-style chicken soup. This spice-filled dish consists of chunks of chicken simmered in a salsa-tinted broth, fresh vegetables, and plenty of flavor. Or, if you’re looking for a mellow version, try the traditional American version, which tends to be light on spice but big on flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try a French-inspired version of chicken soup. This luxurious version of the classic dish incorporates white wine, garlic, and herbs for a flavor that’s truly one-of-a-kind. For an even bolder taste, try a Chinese-style variety. This type of soup features a velvety, luscious broth, chunks of succulent chicken, and crunchy vegetables.

No matter which type of chicken soup you choose, each delectable bowl will satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. So go ahead and try them all – you won’t regret it!