This poached chicken soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather. The recipe combines the classic elements of chicken soup with the depth of poached chicken and the robust flavors of turnips and red potatoes.
The key ingredients in this recipe are chicken, red potatoes, and turnips. Chicken is a common ingredient which can be found in any supermarket. Red potatoes are a bit sweeter and creamier than the usual kind. They can be found in most grocery stores but if not, they can be replaced with regular potatoes. Turnips are the less common ingredient here. They have a slightly sweet, slightly bitter flavor and can be found in the produce section of most grocery stores.
Ingredients for Poached Chicken Soup
Cooking oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, it adds a layer of flavor to the soup.
Onion: It gives a sweet and savory depth to the soup.
Carrot: Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
Celery: Gives the soup a subtle, savory flavor.
Chicken: The star of the soup, providing it with a hearty and meaty taste.
Red potatoes: They are sweeter and creamier than regular potatoes, giving the soup a unique flavor and texture.
Turnips: These add a slightly sweet, slightly bitter flavor to the soup.
Chicken broth: It enhances the chicken flavor in the soup.
Red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle tartness to the soup, balancing out the flavors.
Fresh thyme sprig: Gives the soup a delicate, slightly floral flavor.
Bay leaf: Adds a unique flavor and aroma to the soup.
Fresh parsley: It's used for garnishing the soup, adding a touch of freshness.
One reader, Kym Everhart says:
This poached chicken soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the chicken turns out so tender. The combination of vegetables and herbs creates a delightful aroma. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in or when you need a comforting meal. Highly recommended!
Mastering the Art of Poaching: Techniques Required
How to poach chicken: Poaching chicken involves simmering it gently in liquid until it's cooked through. This method helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.
How to prepare vegetables for soup: The vegetables should be chopped into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture in the soup.
How to simmer soup: Simmering involves cooking the soup over low heat, just below boiling, to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
How to remove thyme sprig and bay leaf: It's important to remove the thyme sprig and bay leaf before serving the soup to prevent anyone from biting into them.
How To Make Poached Chicken Soup
Nothing says comfort food better than a bowl of this poached chicken soup with tender potatoes and carrots in a flavorful herb-seasoned broth.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspcooking oil
- 1onion
- 1carrot
- 1celery rib
- 2tspsalt
- 3½lbschicken
- 1lbred potatoes,(4 small)
- 2medium turnips
- 1cupchicken broth,low-sodium, canned or homemade stock
- 1tspred wine vinegar,or white wine
- 8cupswater
- 1fresh thyme sprig
- 1bay leaf
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- 1cupfresh parsley,chopped
Instructions
-
In a large pot, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and 1 teaspoon of the salt and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften
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Add the chicken, potatoes, turnips, broth, vinegar, water, thyme, bay leaf, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt.
-
Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until the chicken is just done, about 10 minutes for the breasts and 15 minutes for the legs and thighs. Remove each piece as it is done
-
Continue simmering the soup for about 5 minutes longer until the potatoes and turnips are tender. Stir in the pepper and parsley. Remove the thyme sprig and bay leaf.
-
To serve, divide the chicken pieces among 4 shallow bowls and ladle the broth and vegetables over them.
-
Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1061.39kcal
- Fat: 67.95g
- Saturated Fat: 17.92g
- Trans Fat: 0.41g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 29.61g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 15.08g
- Carbohydrates: 30.23g
- Fiber: 4.88g
- Sugar: 7.04g
- Protein: 79.12g
- Cholesterol: 299.47mg
- Sodium: 1635.05mg
- Calcium: 132.93mg
- Potassium: 1660.03mg
- Iron: 6.02mg
- Vitamin A: 358.36µg
- Vitamin C: 53.78mg
Elevate Your Poaching Game with This Technique Tip
When poaching chicken, it's important to keep the heat low to ensure the meat stays tender and juicy. High heat can cause the chicken to become tough. Also, adding the chicken broth and red wine vinegar not only adds flavor to the soup, but also helps in breaking down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender. Remember to remove the chicken pieces as soon as they are done to prevent overcooking.
Time-Saving Hacks for Making Poached Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a pressure cooker: Save time by using a pressure cooker to cook the chicken and vegetables in a fraction of the time.
Buy pre-cut vegetables: Opt for pre-cut vegetables to minimize prep time and get the soup cooking faster.
Multi-task: While the soup is simmering, use that time to clean and tidy up your kitchen to save time later.
Invest in kitchen gadgets: Consider using kitchen gadgets like a food processor or mandoline to speed up the prep work.
Substitute Ingredients For Poached Chicken Soup Recipe
cooking oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor to the soup and is a healthier alternative to cooking oil.
red potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a similar creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them a good substitute for red potatoes in the soup.
turnips - Substitute with rutabaga: Rutabaga has a slightly sweeter flavor and a similar texture to turnips, making it a suitable substitute in the soup.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly while still adding depth of flavor.
fresh thyme sprig - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in place of fresh thyme, but use a smaller quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and vibrant flavor similar to parsley, adding a different herbaceous note to the soup.
Elevate Your Soup Game: Presentation Tips
Elevate the plating: When presenting the poached chicken soup, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. Ensure that the chicken pieces are positioned elegantly, and the vegetables are artfully arranged to create a visually stunning presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of flavor to the overall presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by delicately placing a few edible flowers on top of the soup. Edible flowers not only add a touch of elegance but also bring a subtle floral note to the dish, creating a sensory experience for the diners.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant, high-quality serving bowls and utensils to present the poached chicken soup. The use of sophisticated serving ware adds a luxurious touch to the overall dining experience.
Consider the placement of each element: Pay attention to the placement of each component in the dish. Ensure that the chicken, potatoes, and turnips are thoughtfully arranged to create a balanced and visually appealing composition.
Add a drizzle of infused oil: Just before serving, add a subtle drizzle of infused oil over the soup. This not only enhances the flavors but also adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Highlight the broth: Emphasize the clarity and richness of the broth by serving it in a translucent glass bowl. This allows the vibrant colors of the soup to shine through, creating an enticing visual appeal.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Poached Chicken Soup
- Large pot: A large, sturdy pot is essential for cooking the soup and accommodating all the ingredients.
- Cooking oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, for sautéing the vegetables and chicken.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping the onion, carrot, and celery.
- Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors in the soup.
- Measuring cup: Use a measuring cup to accurately portion the chicken broth and water.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup as it simmers.
- Ladle: A ladle is essential for serving the soup into bowls.
- Tongs: Tongs are useful for removing the chicken pieces from the pot as they finish cooking.
- Soup bowls: Shallow soup bowls are perfect for serving the poached chicken soup.
Preserving Poached Chicken Soup: Storage and Freezing Tips
Allow the poached chicken soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the best quality.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider the following steps:
- Remove the chicken pieces from the soup and store them separately in a freezer-safe container or bag. This will prevent them from becoming too soft or mushy when reheated.
- Pour the remaining vegetable soup into a separate freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers in the freezer, making sure they are positioned upright until fully frozen.
- The frozen poached chicken soup can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the soup, follow these steps:
- If frozen, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
- Pour the thawed soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- If you froze the chicken separately, add it to the soup during the last few minutes of reheating to warm it through without overcooking.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, as freezing can sometimes affect the flavor.
If you plan to consume only a portion of the frozen soup, consider freezing it in smaller, individual servings for convenience.
How To Reheat Leftover Poached Chicken Soup
Reheat the poached chicken soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the vegetables and chicken are evenly warmed through without overcooking.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the soup in the microwave. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat the poached chicken soup in a thermos or insulated container. In the morning, heat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until it's piping hot, then pour it into the thermos. The soup will stay warm for several hours, making it perfect for a midday meal at work or school.
If you find that the soup has thickened after being refrigerated, you can thin it out with a little chicken broth or water when reheating. This will help to restore the original consistency of the soup without diluting the flavor.
For a crispy twist, reheat the poached chicken separately in a skillet or under the broiler until the skin is crispy. Then, add the crispy chicken to the reheated soup just before serving. This method adds a nice textural contrast to the dish and elevates the overall flavor profile.
Surprising Facts About Poached Chicken Soup
The poached chicken soup recipe is a comforting and nutritious dish that can be easily customized with different vegetables and herbs. It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and create a hearty and flavorful meal. This recipe provides a balance of protein, vegetables, and broth, making it a wholesome and satisfying option for a cozy dinner. Additionally, poaching the chicken helps to keep it moist and tender while infusing the broth with rich flavor. This dish is a perfect choice for a nourishing and delicious meal, especially during colder months.
Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is Poached Chicken Soup Economical?
This poached chicken soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and herbs creates a hearty and satisfying meal. The use of inexpensive ingredients and the ability to stretch the dish over multiple meals make it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an affordable and nutritious choice. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is Poached Chicken Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
The poached chicken soup recipe is a relatively healthy dish, as it contains a variety of nutritious ingredients such as vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, potatoes, and turnips), lean protein (chicken), and herbs (thyme, bay leaf, and parsley). The recipe uses a minimal amount of oil for cooking and relies on the natural flavors of the ingredients to create a flavorful broth. Additionally, the use of chicken broth and water as the base for the soup keeps the dish low in calories and fat.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Use skinless chicken breasts or thighs to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the dish
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables, such as adding leafy greens like spinach or kale, to boost the nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as 2 teaspoons may be too much for some individuals, especially those with high blood pressure
- Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to further reduce the salt content
- Consider using whole grain or legume-based pasta instead of potatoes to increase the fiber content and make the soup more filling
Editor's Take on This Comforting Poached Chicken Soup
This poached chicken soup recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, earthy vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The use of red wine vinegar adds a subtle tanginess to the broth, while the fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness. The cooking method ensures that the chicken remains moist and flavorful, making it a perfect choice for a nourishing meal. Overall, this recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, and it's sure to warm both the body and soul.
Enhance Your Poached Chicken Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Discover Delicious Alternatives to Poached Chicken Soup
Appetizers and Desserts: The Ideal Bookends for Poached Chicken Soup Recipe
Why trust this Poached Chicken Soup Recipe:
This recipe offers a comforting and nourishing chicken soup that is perfect for any occasion. The use of fresh vegetables and herbs ensures a wholesome and flavorful broth, while the poaching method keeps the chicken tender and juicy. With a balanced blend of aromatic spices and seasonings, this soup promises a delightful dining experience. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe to savor a satisfying and heartwarming meal.
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