Classic Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe Just Like Grandma’s
Introduction
Why This Recipe Works
Ingredients for Recipe
1 medium onion, chopped – base of the flavor
3 garlic cloves, minced – enhances aroma
3 carrots, sliced – adds natural sweetness
2 celery stalks, chopped – adds freshness and balance
2 chicken breasts or 2 thighs (bone-in preferred) – for tender, flavorful meat
6 cups chicken broth – homemade or low-sodium store-bought
1 bay leaf – adds subtle depth
1 tsp dried thyme or parsley – aromatic touch
Salt & pepper – to taste
1½ cups egg noodles or rice – optional, for heartiness
Fresh parsley or dill – for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until fragrant and softened. - Simmer the chicken:
Add chicken pieces, broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 35–40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through. - Shred & return:
Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. - Add noodles or rice (optional):
If desired, add noodles or rice and cook for another 8–10 minutes until tender. - Finish & serve:
Adjust seasoning, remove bay leaf, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crackers or crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
Chef’s Insight:The secret to truly rich chicken soup lies in patience—let the broth simmer slowly to extract maximum flavor from the chicken and vegetables. Bone-in chicken pieces make a huge difference, giving you that deep, nostalgic flavor reminiscent of Grandma’s kitchen.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Use bone-in chicken for deeper flavor and natural collagen.
Don’t let the soup boil too hard—gentle simmering keeps it clear and flavorful.
Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their aroma.
For a clear broth, skim off any foam that rises during simmering.
Serving, Nutrition, Storage, Reheating & Freezing
Serving: Pair with bread rolls, crackers, or a light side salad.
Nutrition (per bowl ~350 ml): ~260 calories | 25 g protein | 18 g carbs | 9 g fat
Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove; add a splash of broth if thickened.
Freezing: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Classic Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe Just Like Grandma’s
Course: Healthy Soups4
servings15
minutes1
minute280
kcalThis Classic Homemade Chicken Soup is a heartwarming bowl of comfort made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the ultimate feel-better recipe—nourishing, soothing, and just like Grandma used to make. Perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or when you need a healthy, healing meal.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil or butter – adds richness
1 medium onion, chopped – base of the flavor
3 garlic cloves, minced – enhances aroma
3 carrots, sliced – adds natural sweetness
2 celery stalks, chopped – adds freshness and balance
2 chicken breasts or 2 thighs (bone-in preferred) – for tender, flavorful meat
6 cups chicken broth – homemade or low-sodium store-bought
1 bay leaf – adds subtle depth
1 tsp dried thyme or parsley – aromatic touch
Salt & pepper – to taste
1½ cups egg noodles or rice – optional, for heartiness
Fresh parsley or dill – for garnish
Directions
- Sauté the aromatics:In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Simmer the chicken:Add chicken pieces, broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 35–40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred & return:Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add noodles or rice (optional):If desired, add noodles or rice and cook for another 8–10 minutes until tender.
- Finish & serve:Adjust seasoning, remove bay leaf, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crackers or crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
- Comfort in a Bowl: Warm, nostalgic flavors that bring back memories of homemade goodness.
- Wholesome & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and immune-boosting ingredients.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday kitchen staples—no fancy tools or steps required.
- Perfect for All Seasons: Light enough for summer, comforting enough for chilly winter days.
FAQs
This Classic Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe Just Like Grandma’s is pure comfort in a bowl—rich, wholesome, and brimming with flavor. Whether you’re soothing a cold, cooking for family, or craving a nostalgic homemade meal, this timeless recipe brings love and warmth straight to your table—just like Grandma used to make.
