There’s something special about Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that brings warmth and comfort. This dish combines the savory flavors of tender chicken and soft wide egg noodles in a rich broth, creating a meal that everyone loves. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply need a heartwarming dish, this soup recipe is the perfect choice. In my experience, this soup shines at family dinners or as a cozy lunch on cold days. Its hearty, tasty flavor and simplicity make it ideal for nearly any occasion.
Choosing the Right Main Ingredients
When making Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, selecting the best ingredients is crucial to achieving the perfect taste. Start with fresh chicken. You can use smoked chicken for a more intense flavor, or go for the classic cooked chicken meat for a traditional taste. The broth is equally important—chicken broth should be rich, either homemade or from a quality store brand. As for noodles, wide egg noodles are the best choice because they hold up well in the soup without becoming too soft.
Questioning Seasoning: What’s Best for Grandma’s Recipe?
A well-seasoned broth makes all the difference in this chicken noodle soup. For that classic flavor, use a mix of poultry seasoning, salt, and a dash of black pepper. You may also want to add a pinch of garlic powder for extra depth. Adjust the seasoning as you go, but remember that less is more—you can always add more later, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
To make Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe easily, having the right equipment matters. A Dutch oven is a top choice for this recipe. It retains heat well, making it perfect for simmering the soup slowly and evenly. Here are some tips on how to use it effectively:
- Preheat the Dutch oven: Before adding any ingredients, let it heat for a few minutes to ensure an even cook.
- Use medium heat: Start by heating your oil and sautéing your vegetables like chopped celery and chopped onion at a medium temperature. This step helps develop the flavors.
- Simmering to perfection: After adding the chicken broth and other liquids, lower the heat and let the soup gently simmer. Avoid boiling as this could overcook the chicken and noodles, making them tough.
Comprehensive Recipe for Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup
Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into the full recipe for Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup. This simple yet satisfying dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.
Grandma's Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Grandma's Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe brings back memories of warmth and comfort. The savory broth, tender chicken, and soft egg noodles create a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a dish that fills both the heart and the stomach, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 quarts chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken meat, shredded
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 1/4 cup cold water (to mix with cornstarch)
- Celery leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and chopped celery, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Stir in the cooked chicken meat and continue to let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Boil the wide egg noodles separately until they’re al dente (slightly firm), then drain and add them to the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl and slowly stir it into the soup. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until the broth thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with celery leaves for added color and flavor.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 300Total Fat: 10gCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 25g
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
For the best dining experience, serve Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup hot with freshly baked bread, like a warm, crusty baguette. You can also pair it with a light salad for balance, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a more filling meal. This soup is especially good when garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Useful Cooking Tips
To make your chicken noodle soup even better, follow these tips:
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Always cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup at the end to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Use homemade broth: If possible, make your own chicken broth by simmering chicken bones with vegetables for an even richer flavor.
- Simmer, don’t boil: Always keep your soup at a simmer rather than a rapid boil to keep the meat tender and noodles firm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling the soup too vigorously: This can make the chicken tough and noodles overcooked. Keep the heat low and simmer the soup gently.
- Underseasoning: Taste as you go. It’s easier to adjust the seasoning as you cook rather than at the end.
- Adding too much cornstarch: While thickening the soup can be desirable, adding too much cornstarch can make the texture too heavy. Use it sparingly.
Conclusion: Comfort in a Bowl
In conclusion, Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a timeless dish that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfaction to the table. Its savory flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or just a comforting meal when you’re under the weather. By using the right ingredients, equipment, and cooking methods, you can recreate this comforting classic at home with ease.Now, go ahead and try this recipe for yourself—it’s sure to become a family favorite. And if you’re looking for more hearty and tasty dishes, don’t forget to check out more of our soup recipes that will leave you feeling satisfied and warm.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.