This Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup Recipe is a hearty and nourishing dish, which uses a whole chicken and fresh vegetables. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Jump to RecipeHairy Bikers Chicken Soup Recipe Ingredients
- 1 (3-pound) whole chicken
- 4 carrots, halved
- 4 stalks celery, halved
- 1 large onion, halved
- Water, to cover
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (optional)

How To Make Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup Recipe
- Boil to create the stock: Add the whole chicken, halved carrots, celery, and onion to a large soup pot. Cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 90 minutes. Skim off any foam that appears.
- Remove chicken and vegetables: Carefully lift out the chicken and let it cool. Remove the vegetables with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Shred chicken and chop vegetables: Once cooled, remove chicken skin and bones. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Chop the reserved carrots, celery, and onion into smaller pieces.
- Finish the soup: Return the chicken and chopped vegetables to the pot. Reheat gently and season with salt, pepper, and bouillon granules if desired. Serve hot.

Recipe Tips
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken? Yes, bone-in thighs are a good alternative for rich flavor.
- How to make the broth clearer: Skim foam often and strain through cheesecloth if desired.
- What vegetables can I add? Parsnips, leeks, or turnips are great additions.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- Can I freeze chicken soup? Absolutely—cool completely and freeze in airtight containers.
What To Serve With Chicken Soup
This classic soup goes well with:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Simple side salad
- Cheese toast or grilled cheese
- Crackers or matzo
- Roasted root vegetables

How To Store Chicken Soup
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Chicken Soup Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I add noodles or rice?
Yes, add cooked noodles or rice just before serving to keep them from absorbing too much broth.
How do I make it more flavorful?
Use bouillon granules, fresh herbs, or a splash of lemon juice to enhance the taste.
Can I use leftover roast chicken?
Yes, make the stock separately and add shredded leftover chicken in the final step.
How do I thicken chicken soup?
You can blend some of the vegetables or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.
Try More Recipes:
- Hairy Bikers Cheese Potato Pie Recipe
- Hairy Bikers American Meatloaf Recipe
- Hairy Bikers Beef Rendang Recipe
Hairy Bikers Chicken Soup Recipe
Course: SoupsCuisine: British6
servings10
minutes1
hour30
minutes280
kcalA hearty and classic homemade chicken soup made with whole chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken (approx. 3 lb)
4 carrots, halved
4 celery stalks, halved
1 onion, halved
Water to cover
Salt and pepper
1 tsp chicken bouillon granules (optional)
Directions
- Simmer chicken and vegetables in water for 90 mins.
- Remove chicken and veg, set aside.
- Shred chicken, chop veg.
- Return meat and veg to pot, season and reheat. Serve hot.
