This warm and comforting chicken noodle soup is just like grandma used to make. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for any day!
You can’t help but feel cozy with every spoonful. I love having it on chilly evenings while snuggled up in a blanket—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Use either for sautéing the veggies. I love butter for its rich flavor, but olive oil works great too for a lighter option. If dairy-free, go for coconut oil or another plant-based oil.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but low sodium is a good choice if you’re buying it. If you need a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well, just add protein like chickpeas or tofu for heartiness.
Chicken: Cooked leftover chicken is my go-to for this soup. If you don’t have any, rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut. You can even use turkey if you’re looking for a holiday twist!
Egg Noodles: I use wide egg noodles for a classic taste. Don’t have them? Try any pasta you like, such as fusilli or bowties. Gluten-free options are available too.
How Do I Get the Vegetables Just Right?
Sautéing the vegetables properly makes all the difference in flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. You want them to soften without browning too quickly.
- Keep an eye on them; stir occasionally for even cooking. About 5-7 minutes should do until they’re tender.
- Adding garlic just for the last minute of cooking helps prevent it from burning and turning bitter.
Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (white or dark meat)
Seasonings and Extras:
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 20-30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion, sliced celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
2. Add Flavor with Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir it around to let the garlic’s flavor infuse into the veggies without burning it.
3. Make the Broth Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing all those savory flavors to come together!
4. Season the Soup:
Add the dried parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the broth. These herbs are what really give the soup its tasty, comforting flavor.
5. Bring It All Together:
Lower the heat to a simmer and add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes to warm the chicken through.
6. Add the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for about 7-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure they don’t stick together.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. More salt or pepper can really enhance the flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the delicious soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. It goes perfectly with crusty bread or crackers on the side. Enjoy the comforting warmth of Grandma’s chicken noodle soup!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the meat from the chicken and add it to the soup instead of cooking your own. It will still be delicious!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Make sure to let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze, as they can become mushy when reheated.
What if I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can substitute any type of pasta you have on hand, such as rotini or bowties. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta instructions for the best results.
How Can I Make This Soup Healthier?
To make it lighter, consider using low-sodium chicken broth, increasing the amount of vegetables, and using whole grain or gluten-free noodles. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale for a nutritious boost!
