Benefits of Using Poached Chicken in Soup
When it comes to making chicken noodle soup, there are many ways to cook the chicken. Some people prefer to use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken, while others opt for bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. However, poached chicken is an excellent choice for making soup for several reasons.
Tender and Juicy Chicken
One of the main benefits of using poached chicken in soup is that it results in tender and juicy chicken. Poaching involves cooking the chicken in liquid that is barely simmering, which helps to keep the chicken moist and tender. This is especially important when making soup, as the chicken will continue to cook in the broth, and you don't want it to become tough or dry.
Flavorful Broth
Another benefit of using poached chicken in soup is that the broth is incredibly flavorful. Poaching the chicken in broth infuses it with flavor, and the resulting broth is rich and delicious. You can use the poaching liquid as the base for your soup, or you can strain it and use it as a cooking liquid for rice or other grains.
Healthy and Low-Fat
Poached chicken is also a healthy and low-fat option for making soup. Because the chicken is cooked in liquid, it doesn't require any additional oil or fat, which makes it a healthier choice than roasted or fried chicken. Additionally, poaching the chicken helps to remove any excess fat, which results in a leaner and healthier protein source.
Classic Poached Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Now that you know the benefits of using poached chicken in soup let's get to the recipe. This classic poached chicken noodle soup is easy to make and is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 8 cups chicken broth - 1 onion, chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 2 celery stalks, chopped - 2 carrots, chopped - 1 tsp dried thyme - 1 bay leaf - 8 oz egg noodles - Salt and pepper to taste - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, onion, garlic, celery, carrots, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chicken poach in the broth for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the broth and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Discard the solids.
5. Bring the broth back to a simmer and add the egg noodles. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, or until they are tender.
6. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This classic poached chicken noodle soup is a meal in itself, but you can also serve it with crusty bread or crackers for added texture and flavor. You can also add other vegetables to the soup, such as peas, corn, or green beans, depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
Poached chicken noodle soup is a delicious and healthy variation of the classic chicken noodle soup. The benefits of using poached chicken in soup include tender and juicy chicken, flavorful broth, and a healthy and low-fat protein source. This classic poached chicken noodle soup recipe is easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. So grab a bowl, cozy up, and savor the delicious goodness of our classic poached chicken noodle soup.