Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just in need of something warm and hearty, this chicken noodle soup recipe is sure to satisfy. It’s the type of dish that brings back childhood memories of home-cooked meals and love. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a flavorful broth, this Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps to make this classic chicken noodle soup recipe, including tips for perfecting the broth and making it your own.
Why Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is So Special
What makes Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe so special? The answer lies in the combination of simple ingredients and the love poured into making it. Grandma’s recipe often includes tender chicken, vegetables, and a well-seasoned broth that creates the perfect balance of flavor. Whether served with freshly baked bread or enjoyed as a meal on its own, chicken noodle soup has been a comforting classic for generations.
In this recipe, we’ll take you through the essential ingredients and tips to make the perfect batch of Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
The ingredients for Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe are simple, but the results are nothing short of amazing. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (for a quicker version)
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any noodles of your choice)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup corn (for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 cup peas (adds color and freshness)
Instructions for Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Making Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is simple, but the flavors are comforting and rich. Follow these steps for the perfect bowl of soup.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
If using a whole chicken, place it in a large pot with 8 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. If using chicken breasts, you can skip this step and cook the chicken separately, shredding it later.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken is simmering, prepare your vegetables. Slice the carrots, dice the onion, and chop the celery. Mince the garlic and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Broth
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Add the prepared carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the pot. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Let the vegetables simmer in the broth for about 10-15 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
While the vegetables are cooking, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. If you used chicken breasts, simply shred them after they cool down.
Step 5: Add the Noodles
Once the vegetables have softened, add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of noodles used. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Broth
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine. If you used a whole chicken, make sure to remove the bones before adding the chicken back in. Simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed. If you like a richer broth, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
Step 8: Serve
Once the soup is hot and well-seasoned, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with warm bread for a truly comforting meal.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Use Homemade Chicken Broth
For the best flavor, homemade chicken broth is always the way to go. If you don’t have time to make your own, store-bought broth will work just fine, but homemade broth adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
When making Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, be sure not to overcook the noodles. They should be tender but not mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking to ensure they retain their texture.
3. Add Extra Vegetables
Feel free to add additional vegetables like peas, corn, or even potatoes to your chicken noodle soup for a heartier dish. These extra ingredients can add both color and flavor.
4. Store and Reheat Leftovers
This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors get even better the next day! To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat.
Details:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
Conclusion: Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
There’s something about Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the soul. Whether you’re sick, craving comfort food, or just want to enjoy a delicious homemade soup, this chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s a dish that truly feels like home.
Enjoy a steaming bowl of Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe today and savor the comforting flavors that only a classic recipe like this can offer.
