Ah, there’s just something magical about a steaming bowl of old-fashioned chicken soup, right? It’s not just a dish-it’s a comfort, a memory, and sometimes even a remedy. The kind of soup that hugs you from the inside out, especially on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather. Whether it’s the rich, flavorful broth or the tender chicken, every sip feels like a warm embrace. And let’s not forget the fresh vegetables that add texture, color, and heartiness, making this dish the definition of “homemade goodness”.
But here’s the thing: this isn’t just any chicken soup. We’re talking about an old-fashioned recipe that might have been passed down from your grandmother, one that uses simple, wholesome ingredients. No fancy, modern twists here-just pure, classic flavors that have stood the test of time.
So, whether you’re making it for the first time or revisiting a family favorite, let’s dive into this old-fashioned chicken soup recipe. Get ready to bring all the nostalgia and comfort back into your kitchen.
Old Fashioned Chicken Soup Recipe
This recipe brings all the rich flavors of homemade chicken soup into one pot. Perfect for a lazy weekend, a family gathering, or when you’re craving that familiar, soothing taste of childhood. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity-everything you need for a delicious bowl of soup can be found in your pantry or fridge. There’s nothing fancy about it, just good, wholesome ingredients that work together perfectly.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the most comforting bowl of chicken soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs): The star of the soup. A whole chicken adds the most flavor, and its bones give that rich, deep broth that pre-cut chicken just can’t achieve.
- 10 cups water: This is your soup base. You can adjust it depending on how brothy or chunky you like your soup.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: These provide sweetness and color to the soup.
- 3 stalks celery, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 large onion, peeled and quartered: Onion is essential for building that savory flavor. The quartered pieces are left large to be removed later, just leaving behind all the wonderful flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A little garlic goes a long way to deepen the flavor of the broth.
- 1 bay leaf: A subtle, aromatic addition that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Don’t skip the salt-it’s the key to bringing out all the flavors in the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a little bit of heat, balancing the sweetness of the vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: This is the quintessential herb for chicken soup. It gives the broth that herby, warm taste that feels like home.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: For a little fresh flavor and a touch of color in the soup.
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta you prefer): Classic egg noodles add the right amount of texture to the soup, but you can substitute with rice or another type of pasta.
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish): To add a little pop of freshness and color when serving.
Cooking Instructions
This part of the recipe is as easy as it gets. The beauty of old-fashioned chicken soup is that you can let it simmer and do its thing, while you do yours!
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Prepare The Chicken
- Start by placing the whole chicken in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the 10 cups of water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once the water begins to boil, skim off any foam that rises to the top. This will help keep your broth clear and clean.
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Build The Flavor Base
- Once the foam is removed, add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaf, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley to the pot.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Shred The Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones.
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Finish The Soup
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Then, add the egg noodles (or your preferred pasta) and continue to simmer until the noodles are tender, usually about 10 minutes.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to fit your taste.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
- Whole Chicken: The reason for using a whole chicken is simple-more flavor. When you cook a whole bird, you get a richer, more complex broth because the bones release collagen, making the soup velvety and nourishing. The skin also adds extra richness to the broth. Plus, you get to shred the chicken into juicy, tender pieces, adding a homemade feel that makes the soup extra special.
- Herbs and Spices: The thyme and parsley are not just for flavor-they also carry a sense of warmth and familiarity. Bay leaves, though subtle, lend a lovely depth to the broth. Dried herbs work wonders in this recipe since they’ve had time to concentrate their flavors, giving the soup that extra umami kick.
- Noodles: While you can definitely play with the type of pasta you use, egg noodles are the classic choice. They absorb the broth beautifully while maintaining a soft, yet slightly chewy texture.
Expert Tips
- Go slow with the simmering: The longer you let the soup simmer, the more flavorful your broth will be. Don’t rush the process! Let the chicken cook slowly, extracting all those rich flavors. Aim for at least an hour of simmering for the best results.
- Skim the broth: As the chicken cooks, it releases some impurities, causing foam to form at the top of the soup. Skim this off to keep the broth clear and pure. It’s a small step, but it makes a noticeable difference.
- Don’t add the noodles too early: If you’re not planning to eat all the soup in one sitting, it’s best to cook the noodles separately. Otherwise, they’ll continue to absorb liquid and become mushy when stored.
- Bone-in chicken for flavor: Always go for bone-in chicken. It makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. Plus, it’s cheaper than boneless skinless cuts, so it’s a win-win!
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are a few tweaks you can make to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Add more vegetables: If you love a veggie-packed soup, feel free to toss in additional vegetables like parsnips, leeks, or even green beans. Just keep in mind that they will need a bit of extra cooking time to soften up.
- Use chicken thighs: For a richer, more tender chicken, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken. They’re super flavorful and can be shredded easily, making for an even heartier soup.
- Swap the pasta: If you’re gluten-free, swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or even rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times since rice and gluten-free noodles tend to cook faster than traditional egg noodles.
- Spicy kick: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the soup. It’s a fun way to bring a little heat to your comfort food!
Final Words
Old-fashioned chicken soup is one of those timeless recipes that everyone should have in their cooking repertoire. It’s a dish that’s not only nourishing but also steeped in tradition. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, making ahead for the week, or simply enjoying on a rainy day. This recipe, while simple, brings out the best of what homemade soup can be-delicious, comforting, and made with love.
FAQs
What Are The Essential Ingredients For An Old Fashioned Chicken Soup?
The essential ingredients for an old fashioned chicken soup typically include a whole chicken (or chicken parts), carrots, celery, onions, garlic, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or bay leaves. Optional ingredients can include parsnips, leeks, or potatoes.
How Long Should I Cook Chicken For Old Fashioned Chicken Soup?
To make old fashioned chicken soup, cook the chicken for about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the chicken or chicken pieces. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender enough to shred.
Can I Use Store-bought Chicken Broth For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken broth, but for a richer, more authentic flavor, homemade chicken broth made by simmering the chicken and vegetables is often preferred.
Should I Remove The Chicken Skin Before Making The Soup?
It’s optional. Removing the skin can help reduce excess fat, but leaving it on can contribute to a fuller flavor. If you leave the skin on, you can skim off any fat that rises to the top while simmering.
Can I Add Noodles Or Rice To My Old Fashioned Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can add noodles or rice. For noodles, add them in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. For rice, it’s best to cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy.
What Herbs Are Traditionally Used In Old Fashioned Chicken Soup?
Common herbs used in old fashioned chicken soup include thyme, parsley, bay leaves, and sometimes dill. Fresh herbs are typically preferred, but dried herbs can be used as well.
Can I Make Old Fashioned Chicken Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. In fact, the flavors may deepen and improve after resting for a few hours or overnight. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How Do I Prevent The Chicken From Becoming Too Dry When Making Old Fashioned Chicken Soup?
To avoid dry chicken, make sure to cook the chicken in the broth at a low simmer rather than a rolling boil. Remove the chicken from the soup once it’s fully cooked, shred it, and then return the meat to the soup. This helps retain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender. Shred the chicken before serving.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Old Fashioned Chicken Soup?
Old fashioned chicken soup pairs well with simple side dishes such as crusty bread, crackers, or a light salad. A slice of cornbread or a grilled cheese sandwich can also complement the meal.