Warm Up with Pennsylvania’s Classic Chicken Soup Recipe

In the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, where the winters are crisp and the communities are tight-knit, there's a comfort food that has been bringing warmth to families for generations: chicken soup. Pennsylvania’s version of this classic dish is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt embrace, a soothing remedy for cold days, and a centerpiece at many family gatherings. Known for its rich broth, tender chicken, and an abundance of hearty vegetables, this chicken soup captures the essence of Pennsylvania’s culinary heritage.

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The Heart of Pennsylvania in a Bowl

Imagine a pot simmering on the stove, filled with the fragrant aroma of chicken, fresh herbs, and vegetables. In Pennsylvania, chicken soup is a staple, reflecting the state’s love for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something magical. This version of chicken soup is often passed down through generations, each family adding their own special touch—whether it’s a handful of fresh parsley from the garden, a dash of homemade spice mix, or a secret ingredient known only to those at the family table.

Recipe: Pennsylvania Chicken Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cleaned
• 10 cups water
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup egg noodles (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot, place the whole chicken and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
2. Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and black peppercorns to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently, uncovered, for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Set the shredded chicken aside.
4. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the vegetables and spices. Return the broth to a simmer.
5. If using, add egg noodles to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions until tender.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Pennsylvania in every spoonful.

The Perfect Comfort Food

This Pennsylvania chicken soup is more than just a dish; it’s a way of bringing comfort and warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re looking to soothe a cold, warm up after a day in the snow, or simply enjoy a taste of home, this soup is the perfect choice. With its clear, flavorful broth and generous chunks of tender chicken and vegetables, it’s a reminder of the joys of simple, homemade cooking.

Gather your family around, serve it up with some crusty bread, and watch as smiles light up around the table. This soup is a true celebration of Pennsylvania’s rich culinary traditions and the spirit of home cooking.

Sources:

Family Recipe