Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken noodle soup. Those three words alone can conjure memories of cosy nights, sniffles subsiding, and a warm hug from someone who loves you. But there’s nothing quite like grandma’s chicken noodle soup, is there? It’s not just the comforting broth and perfectly cooked noodles – the magic touch, the secret ingredient of love.

What Is Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

Grandma’s chicken noodle soup recipes vary widely depending on family traditions and personal tastes.

Ingredients:

The Hearty Base:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or homemade, if you’re ambitious!)
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you’re a garlic lover)

The Noodly Goodness:

• 2 cups egg noodles (thin or wide, your preference)

The Finishing Touches:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped fresh dill, dried thyme, or a bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Simmering the Soul: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and falling off the bone.
2. Grandma’s Tip: For extra flavor, try browning the chicken in a separate pan with a drizzle of olive oil before adding it to the pot.
3. Straining for Perfection: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat with two forks or your fingers. Strain the broth into a clean pot, discarding the vegetables (but save those carrots for another recipe if you like!).
4. Noodle Nirvana: Bring the broth back to a simmer. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender but not mushy.
5. The Grand Finale: Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the noodles and broth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of your favorite dried herb (dill, thyme, or a bay leaf work wonders).

Grandma’s Wisdom:

1. Feel free to adjust the vegetables! Grandma would be okay if you threw in some chopped mushrooms, green beans, or even a handful of frozen peas.
2. Leftovers are your friend! This soup reheats beautifully, so make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
3. Are you feeling fancy? When serving, drizzle extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a restaurant-worthy touch.

What to serve with

Crusty Bread Or Biscuits

• French Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into grandma’s chicken noodle soup or spreading with butter.
• Homemade Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are another excellent option. They add a comforting texture and can be enjoyed plain or with a dab of butter.

Green Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette dressing complements the soup’s richness. It adds freshness and crunch to the meal.

Vegetable Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts bring a savory sweetness to the meal.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli provide a nutritious and colorful addition to balance the soup.

Cheese Plate

• Cheese and Crackers: A selection of cheeses like aged cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss served with whole-grain crackers can be a delightful accompaniment. It offers a contrast in flavors and textures.

Fruit

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits like berries, melon, and grapes adds a refreshing touch. It serves as a palate cleanser between bites of soup.

Desserts

• Apple Pie or Cobbler: A classic dessert like apple pie or cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a comforting way to end the meal.
• Cookies or Brownies: For a more straightforward option, homemade cookies or brownies provide a sweet treat that complements the soup’s heartiness.

Beverages

• Hot Tea or Coffee: These warm beverages are soothing and pair well with the soup.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a refreshing option, especially in warmer weather, serve iced tea or lemonade.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body maintenance.
• Supports Immune Function: The soup’s broth, made from simmering chicken bones and meat, contains nutrients like zinc and vitamins (such as B vitamins) that support immune function. Adding garlic and onions further boosts its immune-boosting properties due to their antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds.
• Hydration: Soups like chicken noodle soup are hydrating, especially important when you’re sick or recovering. The broth helps maintain hydration levels, while the vegetables and noodles contribute to the overall fluid intake.
• Provides Essential Nutrients: Carrots, celery, and onions (often included in chicken noodle soup recipes) are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including vision, skin health, and digestion.
• Eases Cold and Flu Symptoms: Chicken noodle soup is often recommended as a remedy for colds and flu due to its soothing properties. The warmth and steam from the soup can help clear nasal passages, while the nutritious ingredients provide energy and comfort.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ingredients like garlic, onions, and certain herbs (like thyme) in chicken noodle soup have anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of respiratory infections.
• Promotes Digestive Health: The soup’s broth is gentle on the digestive system and easily absorbed, making it beneficial for individuals with digestive issues or those recovering from illness.
• Comforting and Stress-Relieving: Beyond its nutritional benefits, chicken noodle soup is soothing and can psychologically reduce stress and promote relaxation, supporting overall well-being.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s chicken noodle soup recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to comforting flavors and cherished memories. With its wholesome ingredients and heartwarming aroma, this soup embodies the love and care that goes into homemade cooking.

More Soup Recipes:

• CARABACCIA RECIPE

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