Introduction
Homemade chicken soup with matzo balls is a comforting classic, often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings. This hearty dish is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for chilly days or when you need a little extra warmth. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and light, fluffy matzo balls, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Soup:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 pound bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 medium yellow onion, diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery ribs, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups chicken broth
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Fresh dill, for garnish
For the Matzo Balls:
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– ½ cup matzo meal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons chicken broth
Prep Time
Preparation time for this comforting soup and matzo balls takes about 30 minutes, allowing you to gather all the necessary ingredients and prepare the components before cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 30 minutes for the soup and 30 minutes for the matzo balls. The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour, and it yields approximately 6 servings, perfect for family meals or meal prep.
Enjoy this classic chicken soup with matzo balls that combines comforting flavors and heartwarming memories!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Soup:
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 pound of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 2 peeled and sliced medium carrots, and 2 sliced celery ribs. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken thighs to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Once cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones, and shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Prepare the Matzo Balls:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir in ½ cup of matzo meal, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of chicken broth until well combined. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. With damp hands, form the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls.
Cook the Matzo Balls:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the matzo balls into the boiling water. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook the matzo balls for 30 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the matzo balls to the soup.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving includes matzo balls and vegetables. Garnish with fresh dill before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the soup hot and pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Storage:
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Matzo Ball Texture:
For fluffier matzo balls, allow the mixture to rest longer in the refrigerator before cooking.
Optional Add-ins:
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Starting with the Chicken
Melt butter in a large pot, and brown the chicken thighs skin-side down to develop flavor. Proper browning adds depth to your soup.
Softening Vegetables
Cook the diced onion, carrots, and celery until softened. This process releases their natural sugars and enhances the soup’s flavor.
Building Flavor with Garlic
Add minced garlic after the vegetables are softened. Cooking garlic for a brief time prevents bitterness and maintains its aromatic qualities.
Simmering for Depth
Simmer the soup for 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and infuse the broth.
Shredding Chicken
After cooking, carefully remove the chicken, discard the skin and bones, and shred the meat. This creates bite-sized pieces that are easy to enjoy in the soup.
Preparing Matzo Balls
Whisk eggs and melted butter, then combine with matzo meal and seasonings. Refrigerating the mixture helps to firm it up for shaping.
Cooking Matzo Balls
Boil salted water before gently dropping in the matzo balls. Cooking them covered allows for even cooking and a light texture.
Garnishing the Soup
Finish the dish by garnishing with fresh dill. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when the matzo balls are done?
The matzo balls should be fluffy and cooked through after 30 minutes of simmering.
Can I store leftover soup and matzo balls?
Yes, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What can I use instead of matzo meal?
You can substitute matzo meal with breadcrumbs, but the texture and flavor might differ.
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
Consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during simmering for enhanced flavor.
Conclusion
This comforting soup, featuring tender chicken thighs and fluffy matzo balls, is perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory broth creates a satisfying dish, while the dill adds a touch of brightness. Enjoy this timeless classic with family and friends, and savor each spoonful of warmth and flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Noodle Soup
Replace matzo balls with egg noodles for a classic twist on the beloved chicken soup.
Vegetable Matzo Ball Soup
Add more vegetables such as zucchini, peas, and spinach for a heartier, nutritious soup.
Herb-Infused Chicken Soup
Incorporate herbs such as thyme, parsley, and bay leaves during cooking for added depth of flavor.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Stir in cooked rice and a splash of cream for a rich, comforting variation.
Spicy Chicken Soup
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Matzo Ball Soup with Lemon
Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving for a refreshing, zesty note.
