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Grandma’s Chicken Soup: 5 Steps to Ultimate Comfort

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Grandma’s Chicken Soup. This hearty, flavorful soup is packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and rich, slow-simmered broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights, when you’re feeling under the weather, or just craving a taste of home.

  • Author: Julia Hartman
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broth:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), cut into pieces
  • 10 cups water (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Soup:

  • 1 cup egg noodles (optional, for a heartier soup)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Juice of 1 lemon (for added brightness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
  2. Add Aromatics: Stir in onions, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavorful.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken pieces and let them cool slightly. Discard the bones and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Finish the Soup: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. If using noodles, add them now and cook for another 10 minutes until tender. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice for a burst of brightness.
  5. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Pair with crusty bread for an extra comforting meal.

Notes

  • For the Richest Broth: Simmer the soup low and slow for maximum flavor extraction.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap the egg noodles for rice or gluten-free noodles.
  • Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Substitute noodles with zucchini noodles or omit them entirely.
  • Storage Tips:
    • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    • Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
    • Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
  • Flavor Variations:
    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
    • Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for extra aroma.
    • For a creamy version, mix in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.

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