Description
Cozy Chicken Vermicelli Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. Combining tender shredded chicken, delicate vermicelli noodles, and a medley of sautéed vegetables in a savory chicken broth, this soup is both hearty and light. Enhanced with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice for brightness, it offers a delightful balance of richness and freshness. Easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal, this soup serves as a wholesome option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
Protein and Noodles
- 1½ cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- ¾ cup dry vermicelli noodles (broken into smaller pieces)
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Finishing Touches (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onions: Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant, which builds the flavor base.
- Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Continue sautéing for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, enhancing the soup’s texture and taste.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Add chicken and seasonings: Incorporate shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Let the soup gently simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the vermicelli: Stir in broken vermicelli noodles and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Adjust seasoning and finish: Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Mix in fresh parsley and lemon juice for added freshness and brightness, if using.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy immediately for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute vermicelli noodles with angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti broken into smaller pieces for similar texture.
- For a deeper, richer flavor, homemade chicken stock can be used instead of store-bought broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.