If there’s one thing that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, it’s a steaming bowl of chicken soup. And when we talk about legendary comfort foods, Souplantation Chicken Soup holds a special place. For those who aren’t familiar, Souplantation (also known as Sweet Tomatoes in some regions) is famous for its endless bowls of fresh, flavorful soups that hit that perfect balance of home-cooked warmth and restaurant-quality flavor.
This recipe is your golden ticket to recreating that magical soup at home. Imagine the aroma of tender chicken simmering with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices filling your kitchen. Whether you’re nursing a cold, craving something nourishing, or simply want a cozy meal, this Souplantation-style chicken soup will not disappoint.
Souplantation Chicken Soup Recipe
This isn’t just any chicken soup-it’s one that balances hearty chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory broth that’s both light and deeply flavorful. It’s approachable for home cooks, yet sophisticated enough to impress anyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this masterpiece. Pro tip: fresh ingredients make all the difference!
-
Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 4-5 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- Can substitute with chicken breast for a leaner version
-
Vegetables
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- Optional: leeks or parsnips for additional depth
-
Herbs & Spices
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a pinch of rosemary for an aromatic twist
-
Liquids
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or homemade for extra flavor)
- 2 cups water, if needed
-
Extras
- 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional, add near the end)
- Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a subtle bright finish
Cooking Instructions
Making this soup is a journey-you’ll want to take your time to coax out every bit of flavor:
- Prep the chicken: Rinse the chicken and pat dry. Remove any excess fat or skin if desired.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large soup pot, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until fragrant and slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chicken and liquids: Place the chicken into the pot. Pour in chicken broth and water. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low. Add bay leaves, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, occasionally skimming off foam or fat.
- Remove chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat and discard bones and skin.
- Combine and finish: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add noodles or rice if desired, and cook until tender.
- Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Ingredient Insights
Every ingredient plays a critical role in bringing this soup to life:
- Chicken: Using bone-in chicken gives the broth a natural richness that store-bought broth can’t replicate.
- Carrots & celery: Classic mirepoix veggies-they add subtle sweetness and earthiness.
- Onions & garlic: Provide a foundational depth of flavor that permeates the entire soup.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs brighten the soup, while dried herbs provide long-simmering richness.
- Broth: Homemade is ideal, but high-quality store-bought broth is a great shortcut.
Expert Tips
- Simmer low and slow: Don’t rush. Gentle heat helps flavors meld and prevents the chicken from drying out.
- Skim foam: For a clear broth, skim off any foam or fat that rises to the surface during simmering.
- Layer flavors: Sautéing the vegetables first adds complexity that plain boiling can’t achieve.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: You can always add more salt or herbs at the end.
Recipe Variations
You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth.
- Gluten-free: Skip noodles or use rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Herb-forward: Experiment with basil, oregano, or dill for a different herbal profile.
Final Words
This Souplantation Chicken Soup is more than just a meal-it’s a comfort ritual, a kitchen therapy session, and a showcase of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Every spoonful delivers warmth, nourishment, and that intangible ’homemade love’ factor.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, packing it for lunch, or just indulging in a quiet night with a bowl and a blanket, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Used In The Souplantation Chicken Soup Recipe?
The Souplantation chicken soup recipe typically includes chicken breast, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and a variety of herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. Some versions also incorporate noodles or rice.
Can I Make Souplantation Chicken Soup At Home?
Yes, you can make a version of Souplantation chicken soup at home by using fresh ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The recipe can be adjusted to your preferences with various seasonings and add-ins.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Souplantation Chicken Soup?
The preparation time for Souplantation chicken soup is typically about 15-20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 30-45 minutes depending on whether you’re using cooked chicken or raw chicken breast.
What Can I Substitute For Chicken In The Souplantation Chicken Soup Recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian or non-chicken option, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based protein. You could also use turkey or even beef if you prefer a different meat.
Can I Make Souplantation Chicken Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, Souplantation chicken soup can be made ahead of time. It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for later use.
How Do I Make The Broth For Souplantation Chicken Soup?
To make the broth for Souplantation chicken soup, combine chicken stock or broth with water and season with salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Simmer the mixture until it’s aromatic and flavorful.
What Vegetables Are Typically Included In Souplantation Chicken Soup?
Common vegetables in Souplantation chicken soup include carrots, celery, and onions. These provide a base of flavor, but you can also add other vegetables like potatoes, corn, or peas depending on your preference.
Can I Make Souplantation Chicken Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, Souplantation chicken soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients, including chicken, vegetables, broth, and seasonings, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What Are Some Common Seasonings Used In Souplantation Chicken Soup?
Common seasonings include salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, garlic, and sometimes a bit of parsley. You can adjust the seasonings to your taste or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Can I Add Noodles Or Rice To The Souplantation Chicken Soup Recipe?
Yes, adding noodles or rice to the Souplantation chicken soup recipe is a popular variation. You can use egg noodles, rice, or even gluten-free pasta. If using noodles, be sure to add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.