When the weather turns crisp and chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of Grandma’s Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace from the past, bringing the nostalgic flavors of Grandma’s recipes right to your table. The savory aroma, rich broth, and tender noodles create a symphony of comfort that makes every spoonful feel like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort, this soup will fill your home with the inviting scent of deliciousness and love.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or rotisserie chicken)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup corn
- Lemon juice (for a zesty twist)
Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. This trio, known as mirepoix, forms the aromatic base of your soup. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the kitchen fills with a tantalizing aroma. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting its fragrance mingle with the other vegetables.
Build the Base:
Pour in the chicken broth, allowing the rich, golden liquid to deglaze the pot and lift any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add the dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. These herbs infuse the broth with layers of aromatic complexity. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together as you prepare the next steps.
Add Chicken and Noodles:
Once your soup is simmering, introduce the shredded chicken and egg noodles. The chicken adds hearty substance, while the noodles provide that quintessential Chicken Noodle Soup texture. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked al dente, absorbing the flavors without becoming mushy.
Finalize and Season:
If you’re using the optional add-ins, now is the time to stir in the frozen peas and corn. These ingredients not only enhance the soup’s texture but also add a touch of sweetness and color. Let them heat through for about 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf, as it has imparted its flavor and is no longer needed. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra kick, a squeeze of lemon juice can add a refreshing brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich broth.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each serving is generously filled with chicken and noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Pair the soup with crusty bread or warm rolls for a heartwarming, complete meal.
Tips:
For a richer, deeper flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought. Homemade stock provides a more robust base that enhances the overall taste of your soup.
This Grandma’s Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup freezes exceptionally well. To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy upon reheating, cook them separately and add them when you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll maintain the perfect texture for your noodles.
Feel free to customize this classic recipe by incorporating your favorite vegetables or herbs. Grandma’s Homemade Recipes are often flexible, allowing you to adapt them to your own taste while preserving their heartwarming essence.
Grandma’s Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup is a testament to the enduring appeal of recipes grandma cherished and passed down. It’s more than just food; it’s a way to bring a piece of Grandma’s kitchen into your own home, filling it with the comfort and love that only Grandma’s recipes can provide. Enjoy each comforting spoonful, and let this soup wrap you in nostalgia and warmth whenever you need it.