Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deeply Flavorful: The combination of chicken, ginger, and traditional herbs creates a rich and aromatic broth.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and beneficial herbs, this soup offers both comfort and health benefits.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether using an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop, this recipe adapts to your preferred cooking style.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2-3 carrots, chopped
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 packet of Chinese herbal mix (optional, for added depth)
- 8-10 cups water (enough to cover the chicken)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Place the whole chicken, chopped carrots, celery, and the optional Chinese herbal packet into your cooking pot.
- Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the chicken, approximately 8 to 10 cups. Ensure the pot is not more than two-thirds full.
- Cook the Soup:
- Instant Pot: Seal the lid and valve. Set to high pressure for 50 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally; do not use quick release.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or up to 24 hours for a richer flavor.
- Stovetop: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 hours, skimming any impurities that rise to the surface.
- Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken. Shred the meat and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the broth. Serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time:
- Instant Pot: 50 minutes (plus natural pressure release)
- Slow Cooker: 8 to 10 hours
- Stovetop: 2 to 3 hours
Variations
- Herbal Enhancements: Add ingredients like goji berries, red dates, or ginseng for additional health benefits and flavor complexity.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables such as napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, or bok choy to enrich the soup’s texture and taste.
- Noodle Soup: Transform this into a hearty meal by adding cooked rice noodles or egg noodles just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
FAQs
What herbs are commonly used in Chinese chicken soup?
Traditional Chinese chicken soup often includes herbs like ginger, scallions, goji berries, red dates, and sometimes ginseng to enhance flavor and nutritional value.
Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, using bone-in chicken parts like thighs or drumsticks can provide a rich flavor similar to using a whole chicken.
Is it necessary to use a Chinese herbal packet?
No, the herbal packet is optional. While it adds depth and traditional flavors, the soup is still delicious without it.
How can I make the broth clearer?
To achieve a clearer broth, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the initial boiling phase.
Can I add noodles directly to the soup?
It’s best to cook noodles separately and add them to individual bowls before ladling the hot soup over them to prevent the noodles from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
What can I substitute for celery?
You can use daikon radish or bok choy as alternatives to celery, offering different flavor profiles and textures.
How do I make the soup more flavorful?
Adding a splash of Shaoxing wine, a few cloves of garlic, or dried mushrooms can enhance the soup’s depth of flavor.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth as the base, adding tofu and a variety of vegetables for substance.
What side dishes pair well with Chinese chicken soup?
Steamed rice, sautéed greens, or dumplings complement this soup nicely, creating a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Chinese Chicken Soup recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and nourishment, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Its adaptability to various cooking methods and the option to customize with different herbs and vegetables ensure it can cater to diverse preferences. Whether enjoyed as a simple comfort food or a starter to a larger meal, this soup is sure to satisfy and warm your heart.
Print
Chinese Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 8-10 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chinese Chicken Soup is a traditional, nourishing dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and vegetables for a rich, flavorful broth. Whether cooked in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop, this recipe is a versatile, hearty meal packed with nutrients and comforting flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it offers both health benefits and a deep, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2–3 carrots, chopped
- 2–3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 packet of Chinese herbal mix (optional)
- 8–10 cups water (enough to cover the chicken)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Place the whole chicken, chopped carrots, celery, and optional Chinese herbal packet into your cooking pot.
- Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the chicken (about 8-10 cups). Ensure the pot is no more than two-thirds full.
- Cook the Soup:
- Instant Pot: Seal the lid and valve. Set to high pressure for 50 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or up to 24 hours for a richer flavor.
- Stovetop: Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 2-3 hours, skimming any impurities that rise to the surface.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the broth and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Instant Pot, Slow Cooker, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
