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Cozy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Easy Homemade Grandma’s Classic

cozy chicken noodle soup - featured image

A comforting and easy-to-make chicken noodle soup with slow-simmered broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles, perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 34 lbs / 1.41.8 kg), preferably organic or free-range
  • 10 cups (2.4 liters) cold water
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion, quartered
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt)
  • 2 cups egg noodles (about 120 grams) or any preferred noodle shape
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and freshness)
  • Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for extra aroma)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot. Add 10 cups (2.4 liters) of cold water.
  2. Add carrots, celery, quartered onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
  3. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a low simmer.
  4. Skim off any foam or impurities during the first 10 minutes.
  5. Simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, partially covered if desired.
  6. Remove the chicken with tongs or a slotted spoon and set on a cutting board to cool slightly.
  7. Shred the meat from the bones, discarding skin and bones. Return shredded chicken to the broth.
  8. Optional: Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve for a clearer broth.
  9. Bring the broth back to a simmer and add the egg noodles.
  10. Cook noodles according to package instructions, usually 6-8 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally.
  11. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  12. Stir in olive oil or butter for richness.
  13. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and thyme on top.
  14. Let the soup rest off the heat for a few minutes to meld flavors.
  15. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Notes

Use cold water to extract maximum flavor from the chicken. Skim foam early for a clear broth. Cook noodles last to avoid mushiness. Add fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten flavors. For leftovers, add broth or hot water when reheating if noodles absorb too much liquid. Freeze without noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating to prevent mushiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken noodle soup, cozy soup, homemade soup, comfort food, easy chicken soup, classic chicken soup, family recipe