Chicken noodle soup-it’s a comfort food classic that transcends cultures, generations, and seasons. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening, a rainy afternoon, or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup has an undeniable magic. The soothing combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft noodles has been an essential part of family kitchens for centuries. But what happens when you get a recipe that’s more than just a bowl of warmth? What if there’s a family recipe passed down through generations-one that’s rich in flavor, history, and love? That’s exactly what we’ve got here with Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup.
This recipe is a deep dive into comfort food, packed with the heartwarming essence of home cooking, the kind that can only come from a loving grandmother’s kitchen. Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup isn’t just about throwing together a bunch of ingredients; it’s about using quality components, taking your time, and adding a little extra care to every step.
In the following sections, we’re going to take a full tour through the process-from the essential ingredients to expert tips and recipe variations. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your whole family, you’re about to discover a new favorite way to make this timeless dish.
Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
So, what makes Nana’s version of chicken noodle soup so special? The answer lies in simplicity and quality. It’s not just a matter of throwing things in a pot; it’s about balance and technique. The chicken is cooked until tender and succulent, with the broth simmered to perfection, giving it that deep, savory flavor. The noodles are the perfect texture, neither too soft nor too firm, absorbing just the right amount of broth. There’s a delicate seasoning that doesn’t overpower the dish, but complements the chicken and vegetables in a subtle yet profound way.
Here’s the full recipe, ready for you to bring this dish to life in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, let’s talk about the essential ingredients. With chicken noodle soup, the quality of your ingredients will make or break the dish. You want to use fresh, high-quality items, as each ingredient has its moment to shine. Here’s the lineup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds): The centerpiece of the soup. Opt for a fresh, pasture-raised chicken for the best flavor. This will give your broth a rich depth that store-bought stock simply can’t replicate.
- 10 cups of water: This forms the base of your broth. The more water you use, the more you’ll need to cook the chicken down to make a flavorful broth, so don’t skimp on this.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter: You’ll need this to sauté your vegetables. It adds richness to the soup and ensures the veggies don’t stick.
- 2 medium onions (diced): Onions are the backbone of flavor in most soups. They add a slight sweetness that balances the savory chicken and broth.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- 3 medium carrots (peeled and sliced): These lend a natural sweetness to the soup and a lovely pop of color.
- 3 celery stalks (diced): The perfect crunchy vegetable that adds freshness to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
- 2 bay leaves: Bay leaves help infuse the broth with subtle earthy notes.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme is one of those classic herbs that complements chicken like no other.
- 2 cups egg noodles: The heart of chicken noodle soup. The noodles soak up the broth and give that comforting texture.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh touch at the end that adds a vibrant green color and a little brightness.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup simmering on the stove in no time.
-
Prepare The Chicken And Broth
- Place the whole chicken in a large pot and cover it with 10 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface to keep the broth clear.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the bay leaves. Let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
-
Cook The Vegetables
- While the chicken is simmering, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add the thyme, pepper, and an additional pinch of salt. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables.
-
Shred The Chicken
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Remove the skin and bones, then shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
-
Combine Everything
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the simmering chicken broth. Let everything simmer together for another 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
- After 20 minutes, stir in the shredded chicken and add the egg noodles. Let the soup cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
-
Final Touches
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in creating that perfect chicken noodle soup experience. Here’s a breakdown:
- Chicken: The star of the dish, bringing both flavor and protein. Cooking it in the water releases all those rich, savory juices that make up your broth.
- Onions and Garlic: The foundation for the soup’s depth of flavor. The onions caramelize as they sauté, providing sweetness, while garlic gives a savory kick.
- Carrots and Celery: These vegetables add natural sweetness, freshness, and texture. They also help build layers of flavor as they cook with the broth.
- Bay Leaves and Thyme: These herbs infuse the broth with an earthy, slightly aromatic taste that enhances the chicken without overpowering it.
- Egg Noodles: They absorb the broth, providing that soft, satisfying texture that makes chicken noodle soup so comforting.
Expert Tips
To take Nana’s chicken noodle soup from good to great, consider these expert tips:
- Don’t rush the simmer: The longer you simmer the chicken, the richer the broth becomes. Aim for at least 1-1.5 hours to extract all that savory goodness.
- Use a whole chicken: While pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can work in a pinch, using a whole bird will give you the best flavor. Plus, you’ll end up with extra chicken for sandwiches or salads!
- Taste as you go: It’s easy to get lost in the process, but tasting the broth along the way is key. You may need to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Add the noodles at the end: Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy. Add them in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking so they’re perfectly tender but not falling apart.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of chicken noodle soup is how versatile it can be. Here are a few ways to change things up:
- Add vegetables: Throw in some peas, corn, or potatoes for extra texture and flavor.
- Switch the noodles: Try rice, orzo, or even whole-grain noodles for a healthier twist.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
- Creamy version: For a richer, creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking.
Final Words
Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is more than just a dish-it’s a memory in a bowl. It’s the type of recipe you’ll want to make over and over again, whether you’re nursing a cold or just craving something comforting. The beauty of this soup is its simplicity, but also its heart. You’re not just cooking; you’re creating something that brings warmth, joy, and satisfaction.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
To make nana’s chicken noodle soup, you’ll need chicken (preferably a whole chicken or chicken breasts), carrots, celery, onions, garlic, egg noodles, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and parsley.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
It usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to prepare and cook nana’s chicken noodle soup, including simmering the chicken and vegetables to develop a rich flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Chicken Broth Instead Of Homemade?
Yes, store-bought chicken broth can be used as a substitute for homemade broth. However, homemade broth often imparts a richer flavor.
Can I Make Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make the soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (including uncooked chicken) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, shredding the chicken toward the end.
How Do I Make The Soup Flavorful Without Adding Too Much Salt?
To enhance flavor without excess salt, use herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Additionally, roasting the chicken and vegetables beforehand adds depth to the taste.
What Type Of Noodles Work Best For Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
Egg noodles are traditionally used in nana’s chicken noodle soup because they hold up well in the broth, but you can substitute with other pasta types such as bowties or rotini.
Can I Make Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to add the noodles just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
How Can I Thicken Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a roux (flour and butter mixture) or blend some of the soup’s vegetables and broth together to create a creamier texture.
Is It Necessary To Remove The Skin From The Chicken Before Making The Soup?
Removing the skin is optional. Leaving the skin on while simmering will add extra richness to the broth, but you can remove it for a lighter option.
Can I Make A Vegetarian Version Of Nana’s Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, a vegetarian version can be made by substituting the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.