Grandmas Classic Chicken Soup

Need a hug in a bowl This Homemade Chicken Soup recipe is it Easy classic and packed with flavour Perfect for colds or comfort Get the best chicken soup recipe here ... Healthy Eats
- Recipe Introduction
- Grandmas Classic Chicken Soup Recipe Card
- My Homemade Chicken Soup Story
- What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Ingredients & Equipment: The Secret Weapons for Amazing Soup
- Soup-er Easy Prep Steps
- The Simmering Secret: Step-by-Step Process
- Pro Tips for a Champion Soup
- Recipe Notes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Feeling under the weather? Or just need a big hug in a bowl? Honestly, nothing, absolutely nothing, beats a bowl of Homemade chicken soup .
It’s a comforting classic, packed with flavour and just what you need.
Brief Overview
This classic chicken soup recipe is centuries old. It's the cure all across cultures and generations. It's proper easy to make, taking about an hour and a half.
It yields about six servings, perfect for the family.
Main Benefits
This healing chicken soup isn't just tasty. It's actually great for you, especially when you have a cold. All that chicken broth helps clear you right out.
Plus, this recipe is special because it's made from scratch chicken soup .
Okay, mate, let's whip up a bowl of sunshine! This easy chicken soup recipe is like a cuddle in a bowl. Trust me, it’s the best.
Grandmas Classic Chicken Soup Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
My Homemade Chicken Soup Story
Right then, let me tell you about my first attempt at Homemade chicken soup . Oh my gosh, it was a disaster! I forgot the bay leaves and ended up with something that tasted vaguely of hot water and sad chicken.
Lesson learned! Now, I never skip the bay leaves. Never.

What Makes This Recipe Special?
This isn't just some bland, watery soup. This is properly good Homemade chicken soup , the kind your nan used to make, full of love (and flavour).
It's packed with hearty vegetables and tender chicken. It's the ultimate comfort food recipes and a brilliant chicken noodle soup .
We use a whole chicken to make a proper chicken broth recipe , so it has maximum flavour. You'll love it, I promise.
Alright, mate, let's whip up a list of ingredients and tools for the homemade chicken soup recipe that'll get you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
I find preparing this kind of soup is a great way to make sure that the chicken is not wasted.
Ingredients & Equipment: The Secret Weapons for Amazing Soup
This section breaks down everything you'll need. It covers both the ingredients and the gear, so you can make a knockout bowl of comfort food recipes .
Main Ingredients: The Stars of Our Show
Here's what you'll need for the classic chicken soup recipe .
For the Broth
- Whole Chicken: 1 whole chicken ( 3-4 lbs / 1.3-1.8 kg ), rinsed. Look for a plump chicken with no bruising. It should smell fresh.
- Water: 10 cups (2.4 liters) . Tap water is fine!
- Carrots: 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced. Firm carrots are best.
- Celery: 3 celery stalks, sliced. Choose celery with crisp stalks.
- Onion: 1 large onion, quartered. Yellow or white onions work great.
- Garlic: 3 garlic cloves, smashed. Fresh garlic is way better than powder.
- Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves. Dried is okay, but fresh is amazing if you can find them.
- Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns. Adds a subtle kick.
- Salt: To taste. Salt is essential for flavour.
For Finishing Touches
- Egg Noodles: 1 cup (approximately 100g ) egg noodles (optional). Any small pasta works, including gluten free.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish). A pop of fresh flavor at the end.
Seasoning Notes: Level Up Your Soup
Homemade chicken soup needs a little magic. Essential spices are salt and pepper. Flavour enhancers are bay leaves and garlic.
You know, fresh herbs make a big difference to healing chicken soup . If you don't have parsley, celery leaves work too.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
Let's not overcomplicate things.
- Stockpot: Large stockpot ( 6-8 quart / 5.7-7.6 liter capacity). This is a must.
- Cutting Board: For chopping veggies.
- Chef's Knife: A sharp knife makes things easier.
- Sieve: Fine-mesh sieve (optional). For a clearer broth. Honestly, I usually skip this bit.
- Tongs: Tongs or slotted spoon. Essential for removing the chicken.
If you don't have a fancy stockpot, a large saucepan works too. Just keep an eye on it, okay?
Alright, mate, let's whip up a batch of Homemade chicken soup ! Honestly, there's nothing quite like it, is there? Especially when you're feeling a bit under the weather.
It's like a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly days when you just want to curl up on the sofa.
Soup-er Easy Prep Steps
Okay, first things first. Let's get our mise en place sorted. This basically means getting everything prepped and ready to go before we start cooking.
- Essential mise en place . Chop those carrots, celery, and onions. Smash the garlic.
- Time-saving organization tips. Get a big bowl to chuck all the veggie scraps in, saves running to the bin every two seconds.
- Safety reminders. Remember to wash your hands and use a clean chopping board. Don't want any nasty bugs gatecrashing our homemade chicken soup , do we?
The Simmering Secret: Step-by-Step Process
Right, let's get this show on the road! This Classic chicken soup recipe is easier than you think.
- Place the chicken in a large pot. Cover it with 10 cups of water.
- Bring it to a boil. Skim off any foamy bits. No one wants a murky soup, eh?
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of peppercorns, and salt.
- Reduce the heat. Simmer for 1 hour 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken. Let it cool slightly.
- Shred the chicken meat. Discard the skin and bones.
- Bring the broth back to a boil. Add the noodles (if using) and cook until tender.
- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Pro Tips for a Champion Soup
Want to take your Best chicken soup recipe to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've learned over the years.
- Don't rush the simmering . Let those flavours develop, innit ?
- Season, season, season . Taste as you go and add more salt if needed. It's the secret to a Healing chicken soup .
- Make-ahead option . You can make the broth a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It's a proper time-saver.
Honestly, folks, this homemade chicken soup is not just Comfort food recipes ; it's a lifesaver. Whether you're battling a cold or just fancy something warm and comforting, this recipe has got you covered.
Give it a go, and let me know what you think!
Alright, let's talk Homemade chicken soup ! After the main recipe, there are a few extra bits. These bits help make sure your soup is top-notch.
Trust me; these tips are worth reading.
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Make It Look Fancy
Listen, your classic chicken soup recipe tastes amazing. But how about making it look amazing too? Okay, mate, let's whip up a few quick wins.
First, plating. Use a nice bowl. Swirl a tiny bit of cream on top for extra pizzazz. Chopped fresh herbs? Yes, please! Think parsley, dill, or even chives.
Serve it with crusty bread. A simple green salad is nice too. Oh, my gosh! Don't forget a drink. A cup of tea is perfect.
Ginger ale is another good shout, you know? It’s the perfect comfort food recipes for when you are not feeling well.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh!
You've made a big pot. Brilliant! But what about leftovers? Don’t you worry. Refrigerate it within 2 hours . Store in an airtight container. It'll be good for 3-4 days .
Freezing is an option too. Let it cool completely first. Then, pop it into freezer bags or containers. It can last for 2-3 months !
Reheating? Easy peasy. Use the microwave or stovetop. Make sure it's piping hot before serving. Honestly, freezing Homemade chicken soup is a lifesaver on busy weeknights!
Variations: Get Creative!
This is where things get interesting! Want to switch it up? Sure, why not! You can try some other Homemade soup recipes !
Need a gluten-free version? Swap noodles for rice. Or use gluten-free pasta. Easy! Watching your sodium? Use low-sodium broth. Skip adding extra salt.
Seasonal swaps are fun too. In winter, add root vegetables like parsnips. In summer, throw in some zucchini. This chicken noodle soup is versatile!
Nutrition Basics: Good for You!
Homemade chicken soup isn't just yummy. It’s good for you too! It’s Healing chicken soup , you know? It's packed with nutrients.
Think protein, vitamins, and minerals. The benefits of Chicken soup for cold are undeniable.
A bowl of our easy chicken soup recipe is low in calories. But high in flavor! Carrots add vitamin A.
Celery provides vitamin K. The Chicken broth recipe is hydrating. Honestly, it's a win-win!
So, there you have it! Some extra tips for the Best chicken soup recipe . Don’t be shy - get cooking and have fun with it! This from scratch chicken soup will become your new family favourite!

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my Homemade chicken soup broth isn't cloudy?
For a crystal-clear broth, remember to skim off any foam that rises to the surface while the soup is simmering – that's where the impurities hide! Also, avoid boiling the soup vigorously; a gentle simmer is the key. If you're really keen on clarity, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the chicken and noodles.
Can I freeze Homemade chicken soup ?
Absolutely! Chicken soup freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. If you've added noodles, be aware they might become a little softer after thawing. For the best quality, use within 2-3 months.
What are some good variations I can make to my Homemade chicken soup ?
Fancy giving your chicken soup a twist? Why not try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty Lemon Chicken Soup, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Some people like to add dumplings, or change up the vegetables – parsnips and sweet potatoes are particularly good. A splash of cream right at the end can also add a luxurious touch!
Is Homemade chicken soup good for a cold?
Chicken soup is often considered a go-to remedy for colds and flu. The warm broth helps to hydrate and soothe a sore throat, while the nutrients from the chicken and vegetables can give your immune system a boost. It’s not a cure-all, mind you, but it’s definitely a comforting and nourishing option when you’re feeling under the weather.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken for my soup?
While a whole chicken creates a richer, more flavorful broth, you can certainly use chicken breasts in a pinch. You'll get a leaner soup with this method. Just be mindful that chicken breasts cook quicker than a whole chicken, so add them later in the simmering process (about 30 minutes before you plan to remove the chicken) to prevent them from becoming dry. Alternatively, chicken thighs are also a good option!
What kind of noodles work best in Homemade chicken soup ?
Egg noodles are the classic choice for chicken soup due to their texture and mild flavor, but you can really use any small pasta you like! Ditalini, orzo, and even small shells work well. If you're gluten-free, rice noodles or gluten-free pasta are great substitutes. Just be sure to add the noodles with enough time to cook, but not so early that they become mushy.