Description:
This Cozy Chicken Vermicelli Soup Delight is a soothing, light, and flavorful soup that combines tender chicken, delicate vermicelli noodles, and a savory broth. Packed with fresh vegetables and a comforting blend of herbs, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy when you need a warm, nourishing dish.
Origin:
A variation of chicken noodle soup with an added twist, this version uses vermicelli noodles, which are popular in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. It’s a classic comfort food with a bit of international flair.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color and flavor)
- 2 cups (200g) vermicelli noodles (or other thin pasta)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional for added brightness)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the Soup Base:
- Add the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and turmeric (if using) to the pot. Bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Add the Vermicelli and Chicken:
- Stir in the vermicelli noodles and shredded chicken. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with a wedge of lemon for extra zest, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor, or opt for low-sodium store-bought broth if preferred.
- For added richness, you can stir in a small splash of heavy cream or milk before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables and broth before adding the noodles.
Recommendations:
- Serve this soup with a side of warm crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 4 servings):
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Cozy Chicken Vermicelli Soup Delight is the perfect comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather! ✨
