It was a chilly winter afternoon when my dear friend Emily called me, her voice laced with congestion. “I’m feeling under the weather, and I could really use a pick-me-up,” she said. Without hesitation, I knew exactly what to do – I was going to make her my famous Get Well Soup. This soup had nursed me back to health countless times, and I couldn’t wait to share its restorative powers with Emily.
I quickly gathered the ingredients and got to work, chopping, simmering, and stirring with care. As the savory aroma filled my kitchen, I could practically see the steam clearing Emily’s stuffy sinuses. When the soup was ready, I packed it up and headed over to her place, a thermos of the steaming elixir in hand. The look of delight on her face as she took that first sip made all the effort worthwhile. “This is just what I needed,” she sighed, the color returning to her cheeks. From that moment on, Get Well Soup became our go-to remedy for any ailment.
Why This Get Well Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Get Well Soup
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of homemade Get Well Soup. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and comforting broth creates a symphony of flavors that nourish the body and soothe the soul. But this isn’t your average soup – it’s a labor of love, crafted with precise techniques and quality ingredients that elevate it to a whole new level.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The key to this Get Well Soup’s success lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making it truly special:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This forms the flavorful base, gently cooking the aromatic vegetables to bring out their sweetness.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Onions add depth and complexity, lending a subtle savory note to the broth.
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced: Carrots contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant color, complementing the other vegetables.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Celery brings a refreshing crunch and a slight bitterness that balances the overall flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is a must-have, infusing the soup with its pungent aroma and immune-boosting properties.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The broth is the foundation, providing a rich, soothing base for the other ingredients.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or 1 pound uncooked chicken breast): Tender chicken adds protein and heartiness to the soup, making it a complete meal.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Peas contribute a fresh, sweet flavor and vibrant color, adding a pop of nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley lends a bright, herbaceous note and a touch of freshness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors and balance the overall dish.
Step-by-Step Get Well Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Get Well Soup
With a total time of just 35 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking), this Get Well Soup comes together quickly, making it the perfect remedy for those days when you or a loved one need a comforting meal. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a ladle.
1- Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until it begins to soften and become translucent.
2- Next, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
3- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pot. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma.
4- Pour in the 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the shredded cooked chicken (or uncooked chicken breast), frozen peas, chopped fresh parsley, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5- Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If using uncooked chicken breast, make sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink in the center.
6- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This Get Well Soup is sure to warm your body and soul, providing the nourishment you need to feel better.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor and reduced sodium content.
- Shred the cooked chicken by hand or use a fork for a more rustic texture, or dice it for a smoother consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste – some prefer a bit more salt or pepper, while others like a hint of lemon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- For an extra creamy texture, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, then stir it back into the pot.
Serving and Storing Your Get Well Soup
Perfect Pairings for Get Well Soup
This Get Well Soup is designed to serve 6 people, making it the perfect comforting meal for the whole family or a group of friends. To complete the experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh, crunchy salad or a crusty slice of whole-grain bread for dipping. A refreshing glass of iced tea or a soothing cup of herbal tea would also complement the soup beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Get Well Soup is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat. Once it’s cooled, you can transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s steaming hot.
For even longer-term storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions or larger batches. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s piping hot.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Get Well Soup
Creative Get Well Soup Variations
While this classic Get Well Soup is a tried-and-true favorite, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a heartier version, you can add cubed potatoes or whole-wheat pasta. To embrace the seasons, swap out the frozen peas for fresh or frozen green beans, corn, or even chopped kale or spinach. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, rosemary, or basil, to create unique flavor profiles.
Making Get Well Soup Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, this Get Well Soup can be easily adapted to fit your needs. To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free broth and skip the bread on the side. For a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or lentils, and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken. To reduce the carb count, opt for low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower in place of the peas and potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat in the Get Well Soup?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily substitute cooked turkey, beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
Q: How long does it take to make this Get Well Soup?
A: The total time for this recipe is 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I make the Get Well Soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this Get Well Soup recipe make?
A: This recipe is designed to serve 6 people, making it a great option for families or when you want to have leftovers.
Q: What if I don’t have all the ingredients on hand?
A: Don’t worry, the Get Well Soup recipe is flexible. You can substitute or omit ingredients based on what you have available, though the flavors may vary slightly.
Get Well Soup
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This nourishing and comforting Get Well Soup is the perfect remedy for cold and flu symptoms. Packed with immune-boosting veggies and soothing flavors, it’s a quick and easy recipe to help you feel better fast.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or 1 pound uncooked chicken breast)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked (or raw) chicken, peas, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Notes
This soup can be made with either cooked or raw chicken. If using raw chicken, simply add it to the pot with the broth and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked, about 20 minutes. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Soups, Stews & Chili
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Get Well Soup is a true healing elixir, a comforting dish that nourishes both the body and the soul. With its aromatic blend of vegetables, tender chicken, and flavorful broth, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to for me and my loved ones. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, nursing the flu, or simply in need of a warm, restorative meal, this Get Well Soup is sure to become your new favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the magic of this soup work its wonders. I can’t wait to hear how it brightens your day and lifts your spirits!
