Description
Nothing brings comfort quite like Grandma’s Chicken Soup—a warm, hearty, and nourishing dish made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich homemade broth. This timeless recipe is perfect for chilly days, sick days, or whenever you need a bowl of love and warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs) or bone-in chicken thighs
- 8 cups water (or chicken broth)
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional, for a heartier version)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large pot, add the chicken, water (or broth), onion, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Let cook for 45-60 minutes, until the chicken is tender and easily pulls apart.
-
Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Shred the meat and discard the bones and skin.
-
Add the Vegetables:
- Add carrots, celery, thyme, and turmeric to the pot.
- Simmer for another 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
-
Finish the Soup:
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- If using noodles or rice, add them and cook until tender.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a richer broth, use a whole chicken and let it simmer longer.
- For a faster version, use rotisserie chicken and store-bought broth.
- For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end.
- For a low-carb option, skip the noodles and add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Keywords: Grandma's Chicken Soup, Homemade Chicken Soup, Comfort Food, Classic Soup Recipe