Creating The Best Chicken Soup Recipe is easy when you follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large stockpot, add the chicken pieces and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Skim the Foam: As the chicken boils, skim off any foam that rises to the top. This ensures a clearer broth.
3. Add Onions and Aromatics: Once the foam is skimmed, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot.
4. Season the Broth: Stir in minced garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture back to a simmer.
5. Cook the Chicken: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Remove Chicken Pieces: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, shred the meat from the bones and discard the skin and bones.
7. Return Shredded Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and stir well.
8. Cook Noodles or Rice: If using egg noodles or rice, add them to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
10. Serve: Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

These detailed steps will guide you through making this incredible chicken soup effortlessly. Your family will be amazed at how quickly this wholesome dish comes together!