My Signature Chicken Broth for Seasonal Healing

It is the change of the seasons where winter melts into spring, and while we eagerly look forward to the fresh air and the promise of blooming flowers, sometimes that transition can be overwhelming. Stress can creep in, whether it's from thinking about all the spring chores that need to be done on the farm or the much-needed spring cleaning around the house.

I often notice that during this shift, my immune system seems to take a hit, and this spring is no different. A nasty virus has been spreading in our town, and many families, including ours, have been battling a terrible cold or flu. Runny noses and coughing become the unwelcome guests of the season. 

Dealing with these symptoms is never fun. And when you find yourself at the doctor’s office, only to hear that there’s not much they can do but wait it out, it can be incredibly frustrating. It’s during these times, when I feel like I have no control over how awful I feel, that I need to do something that gives me a sense of control and comfort. That’s when I turn to old-fashioned remedies that have stood the test of time.

One of the first things I reach for is Manuka honey. I add it to my morning coffee or tea because it has such amazing medicinal qualities. I’ve read the studies, and it’s truly remarkable what this natural ingredient can do to boost the body’s defenses. I always feel better just knowing I’ve added something so healing to my day.

The next step in regaining some control over my illness is making my homemade chicken noodle soup. There’s something so comforting about the process, and the scent of the simmering broth fills the house, calming my nerves and clearing my mind. 

If you find yourself feeling under the weather this spring, or even just wanting to embrace the season with a warm bowl of comfort, here’s my recipe for homemade chicken broth. It’s the perfect remedy to soothe your body during seasonal shifts, boost your immune system, and give your soul a bit of warmth in the chilly days that still linger.

My Homemade Chicken Broth Recipe

Step 1. Take any chicken parts, legs, thighs etc. skin on and place them in a pot filled with clean water and pour a glug of apple cider vinegar into the pot. About ¼ cup.

Step 2. Cut up carrots, celery and onion into small bite sized pieces and place them into the pot.

Step 3. Chop parsley or cilantro into small pieces and place them into the pot.

Step 4. Add 2 to 6 cloves of garlic and a teaspoon or more to taste of minced ginger.

Step 5. Add a seasoning salt and black pepper and some of my seasoning salt to taste.

Step 6. Add chili flakes or jalapenos to taste.

Step 7. Bring to a boil then reduce temperature to a simmer. Simmer for as long as possible, adding water to the broth whenever necessary. I usually simmer for up to 4 or 5 hours, but you can stop whenever you want. As the soup simmers, the whole house fills with an irresistible aroma. It’s one of those smells that makes you feel cozy and calm, and the humidity from the steaming pot will even help loosen up any congestion you may have.

Once the chicken is falling off the bones, take it out and carefully remove the meat from the bones. Chop it into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot for another hour of simmering. You can discard the bones or save them to make a rich bone broth later.

If you like noodles, now’s the time to add them. Any kind will work, just simmer them in the broth until they’re tender and ready to absorb all the flavors. While I don’t always add noodles, my family definitely prefers it that way. I serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers, so we can sop up every last bit of that delicious, nourishing broth.

Drinking the broth when you're sick does more than just hydrate you. It replenishes your body with essential vitamins and minerals, quietly supporting your natural healing process.  The vitamins and minerals in the vegetables and chicken help your body heal naturally, supporting your immune system in a gentle but effective way.

My wish for you this time of year when winter melts into spring that you will be filled with joy with all the new season has to bring even if it includes some spring cleaning. I also wish for you good health. And if you happen to catch one of those pesky spring colds, I invite you to try my homemade chicken noodle soup. Curl up, sip slowly, and let it nurture you back to health.

Peace,

Vivian