Pileća Supa is a quintessential Serbian chicken soup renowned for its comforting and nourishing qualities. This traditional dish is a staple in Serbian households, especially favored during the colder months or when someone is feeling under the weather. Pileća Supa is typically made with tender chicken, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a flavorful and hearty soup. It is often served with homemade noodles, dumplings, or crusty bread, making it a versatile and beloved meal across Serbia and the surrounding regions.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs or 1.4-1.8 kg) or 2 lbs (900g) chicken pieces (preferably with bones for more flavor)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 2 large onions, peeled and quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced (optional)
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup homemade or store-bought egg noodles or small pasta shapes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and remove any excess fat or skin if desired.
   • In a large pot, place the chicken pieces and cover them with water (about 10-12 cups). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This helps create a clear and clean broth.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the quartered onions, bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the pot.
   • Cover and let the chicken simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and fully cooked.

3. Remove and Shred the Chicken:

   • Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
   • Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin if preferred.

4. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced carrots, celery, and parsnips (if using), and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the chicken broth.

5. Add Remaining Ingredients:

   • Add the diced potatoes, chopped bell pepper, and green peas to the pot.
   • Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Add the Shredded Chicken and Noodles:

   • Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
   • Add the egg noodles or pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.

7. Season the Soup:

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
   • Remove the bay leaves before serving.

8. Serve:

   • Ladle the Pileća Supa into bowls.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill if desired.
   • Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor, and accompany with crusty bread or homemade dumplings if preferred.

Nutritional Information (per 1-cup serving):

• Calories: ~150 kcal
• Proteins: ~12g
• Carbs: ~10g
• Fiber: ~2g

Nutritional Summary: Pileća Supa is a balanced and nutritious meal, offering a good source of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the vegetables and noodles. It is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying meal. The soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the variety of vegetables used, and provides essential nutrients that support overall health. Additionally, it is low in fat, especially when using lean chicken meat, making it a healthy option for those seeking a wholesome and comforting dish