There’s nothing like Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup to warm your heart! This cozy dish features tender chicken, fresh veggies, and hearty noodles swimming in a yummy broth.
It’s like a big hug in a bowl! Whenever I’m under the weather, this soup makes everything better. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you can enjoy it anytime you want!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I love using olive oil for a lighter touch, but butter adds rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil or even avocado oil for a twist!
Onions, Celery, and Carrots: These veggies form the classic “mirepoix” base. If you’re out of one, try leeks or bell peppers instead. Frozen veggies work too in a pinch!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best for flavor, but low-sodium store-bought options are great for convenience. You can also use vegetable broth if needed.
Shredded Cooked Chicken: I usually use rotisserie chicken for speed. Leftover chicken from previous meals works well too! For a vegetarian option, use tofu or chickpeas.
Egg Noodles: My favorite for this dish! You can use whole-wheat or gluten-free noodles if you’re looking for healthier options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing veggies properly is key to great soup. Begin with medium heat so vegetables cook evenly without burning. Remember these steps:
- Heat the oil or butter before adding the vegetables.
- Add onions first as they take longer to soften, then add celery and carrots together.
- Cook until they get a bit tender (about 5-7 minutes) and the onions become translucent.
This creates a tasty base for your soup! Don’t rush it; let those flavors develop fully.
Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients:
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low sodium store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
- 2 cups egg noodles (or wide egg noodles)
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This heartwarming soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling just about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a comfort meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion looks translucent. This step builds a delicious base for the soup!
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Be sure not to burn it!
3. Add Broth and Bring to a Boil:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. You’ll see bubbles forming on the surface—this is a good sign!
4. Simmer and Season:
Once you see those bubbles, lower the heat to let it simmer. Add in the shredded chicken, dried parsley, and thyme if you’re using it. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Give it a good stir!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles right into the simmering soup. Cook them according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes until they’re nice and tender.
6. Final Touch and Serve:
Taste the soup one last time to see if it needs any more seasoning. When you’re happy with it, serve hot in bowls. If you’d like, add some crackers on the side for a little crunch!
This hearty soup features tender pieces of chicken, fresh carrots and celery, soft egg noodles, and a flavorful broth seasoned with herbs—just like Grandma used to make!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred the meat and toss it in when you’re ready to simmer the soup.
What’s a Good Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or shells. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so follow the package instructions for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just remember that the noodles may soften when reheating!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. Feel free to add extra vegetables or chickpeas for added protein and nutrition!
