The Best Grandma’s Chicken Soup Recipe | Ready in 1 Hour

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Grandma’s Chicken Soup when you need a little comfort. Whether it’s a cold winter evening, a day when you’re feeling under the weather, or just craving something nostalgic, this soup brings warmth and love to the table.

Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and homemade broth, this recipe is as heartwarming as it is nourishing. It’s slow-simmered to develop rich flavors, just like Grandma used to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Classic Comfort Food – Perfect for when you need a cozy, home-cooked meal.
✅ Nourishing & Healing – Full of vitamins, minerals, and warmth.
✅ Easy to Customize – Add your favorite vegetables, noodles, or rice.
✅ Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Recipe Snapshot

• ⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
• 🍲 Cook Time: 1 hour
• 🔥 Difficulty Level: Easy
• 🍽️ Servings: 6-8

💡 Looking for more comforting meals? Try our Homemade Chicken Casserole for another family favorite!

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Chicken Soup

Nothing compares to Grandma’s Chicken Soup—it’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Here’s why this classic homemade soup is a must-make!

✅ 1. Made with Love & Tradition

This recipe is a timeless classic, just like the one Grandma used to make. It’s all about simple, wholesome ingredients and slow-simmered flavors that fill your home with comforting aromas.

✅ 2. Perfect for Cold Days & Sick Days

Chicken soup has been known for its healing properties for centuries. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need something warm and nourishing, this soup is packed with immune-boosting nutrients from fresh vegetables and homemade broth.

✅ 3. Easy to Customize

The best part about homemade chicken soup is that you can make it your own:

• Want a heartier meal? Add rice, noodles, or dumplings.
• Love extra veggies? Toss in spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes.
• Need a lighter broth? Use less chicken and more herbs for a delicate flavor.

✅ 4. Meal Prep & Freezer Friendly

This soup stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch, store leftovers in the fridge, or freeze for a quick meal later.

✅ 5. Pairs Perfectly with Other Comfort Foods

Serve Grandma’s Chicken Soup with a side of:

• White Lily Cornbread for a classic Southern pairing.
• Green Bean Casserole for a complete homestyle meal.
• A warm, buttery roll or a slice of crusty bread.

💡 Looking for more comforting recipes? Try our Homemade Chicken Casserole for another cozy dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Grandma’s Chicken Soup

To make the best homemade chicken soup, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that create a rich, flavorful broth and tender, juicy chicken. Here’s everything you need:

✅ 1. Essential Ingredients for the Broth

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces – Bone-in chicken adds the best flavor.
• 10 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth – For a rich and soothing base.
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped – Adds natural sweetness.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Enhances the broth’s depth.
• 1 onion, peeled and halved – Infuses subtle, savory flavor.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Boosts aroma and adds health benefits.
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) – Brings out all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a mild kick of warmth.
• 1 bay leaf – Enhances the broth’s complexity.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – A classic herb for comforting soups.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the final dish.

✅ 2. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Heartiness

• ½ cup egg noodles or rice – For a more filling soup.
• 1 small potato, diced – Adds a creamy texture when cooked.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric – Gives a golden color and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat.

✅ 3. Ingredient Substitutions

• No whole chicken? Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for the best flavor.
• Want a vegetarian version? Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth.
• Low on time? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and reduce cooking time by half.

💡 Pro Tip: For the richest broth, let the soup simmer low and slow—this extracts the most flavor from the chicken and bones!

How to Make Grandma’s Chicken Soup (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Making Grandma’s Chicken Soup is easy and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create a rich, flavorful broth and tender, fall-apart chicken just like Grandma used to make!

✅ Step 1: Prepare the Chicken & Broth

1️⃣ Place the whole chicken (or bone-in pieces) into a large pot or Dutch oven.
2️⃣ Add 10 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
3️⃣ Reduce heat to low, skimming off any foam that rises to the top.

💡 Pro Tip: For a clear broth, don’t let it boil too hard—keep it at a gentle simmer!

✅ Step 2: Add the Vegetables & Seasonings

4️⃣ Stir in the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
5️⃣ Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.

✅ Step 3: Remove & Shred the Chicken

6️⃣ Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
7️⃣ Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and skin.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want an extra rich broth, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.

✅ Step 4: Add Noodles, Rice, or Extra Ingredients (Optional)

8️⃣ Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
9️⃣ If using egg noodles, rice, or potatoes, add them now and cook for another 10-15 minutes until tender.

✅ Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serve

🔟 Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
1️⃣1️⃣ Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
1️⃣2️⃣ Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with White Lily Cornbread or crusty bread.

💡 Looking for another cozy dish? Try our Homemade Chicken Casserole for more comfort food goodness!

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Grandma’s Chicken Soup

Want to make your chicken soup even better? Here are some expert tips and tricks to ensure every batch is rich, flavorful, and perfectly comforting—just like Grandma’s!

✅ 1. Use Bone-In Chicken for the Best Flavor

• Whole chicken or bone-in, skin-on thighs create the richest broth.
• If using boneless chicken breasts, add chicken bouillon or stock for extra depth.

✅ 2. Let It Simmer Low & Slow

• The secret to a deep, flavorful broth is a gentle simmer—avoid boiling!
• Simmer for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

✅ 3. Skim the Broth for Clarity

• Use a spoon to remove foam from the top while simmering.
• For extra-clear broth, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the shredded chicken back.

✅ 4. Add Noodles or Rice at the Right Time

• Egg noodles: Add 10 minutes before serving so they don’t overcook.
• Rice: Add 15 minutes before serving or cook separately and mix in later.

✅ 5. Boost the Healing Power

• Add turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost and golden color.
• Include fresh ginger for added warmth and digestion support.
• Mix in lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

✅ 6. Store & Freeze Like a Pro

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently: Warm over low heat to keep the chicken tender.

💡 Want more comforting dishes? Pair this soup with our Green Bean Casserole for a cozy meal!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Grandma’s Chicken Soup

Grandma’s Chicken Soup is a comforting meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes makes it even better. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a cozy lunch, or as a healing remedy, here are some perfect pairings to complete your meal.

✅ 1. Classic Sides to Serve with Chicken Soup

• White Lily Cornbread – Buttery, light, and perfect for dipping.
• Crusty Artisan Bread – A warm, golden baguette or homemade dinner rolls.
• Buttery Biscuits – Soft and flaky, great for soaking up the broth.

✅ 2. Fresh & Light Side Dishes

• Side Salad – A simple greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the warm soup.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for added texture.

✅ 3. Hearty Additions for a Full Meal

• Homemade Chicken Casserole – A creamy, comforting side.
• Rice or Quinoa – Serve the soup over rice for an extra-filling dish.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A crispy, cheesy classic that pairs perfectly.

✅ 4. Best Drinks to Pair with Chicken Soup

• Hot Herbal Tea – Chamomile or ginger tea enhances the comforting experience.
• Homemade Lemonade – A refreshing drink that pairs well with the light broth.
• Warm Milk with Honey – A soothing choice for a cozy night in.

💡 Looking for another cozy meal? Try our Green Bean Casserole for the perfect Southern pairing!

Storage & Reheating Tips for Grandma’s Chicken Soup

One of the best things about Grandma’s Chicken Soup is that it stores well and tastes even better the next day! Follow these simple storage and reheating tips to keep your soup fresh and delicious.

✅ 1. How to Store Chicken Soup

Refrigerator:

• Let the soup cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Store in freezer-safe containers or portion into zip-top bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Leave at least 1 inch of space in the container for expansion.

💡 Pro Tip: Freeze the broth and shredded chicken separately for better texture when reheated!

✅ 2. Best Ways to Reheat Chicken Soup

On the Stovetop (Best Method)

• Pour soup into a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if needed.

In the Microwave (Quick Option)

• Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.

From Frozen

• Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until fully warmed.

💡 Avoid boiling the soup too hard when reheating—it can make the chicken tough!

Nutritional Information for Grandma’s Chicken Soup

Grandma’s Chicken Soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also nutritious! Packed with protein, vitamins, and immune-boosting ingredients, it’s a wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

✅ 1. Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (Based on a 1-cup serving, without noodles or rice)

✅ 2. Key Health Benefits of Grandma’s Chicken Soup

• Rich in Protein – Supports muscle repair and immune function.
• Full of Vitamins & Minerals – Carrots, celery, and onions provide vitamin A, C, and potassium.
• Gut-Friendly – Homemade broth contains collagen and gelatin, great for digestion.
• Low in Calories – A light, nourishing meal that’s easy to digest.

✅ 3. How to Make It Healthier

• Lower the Sodium – Use low-sodium broth and limit added salt.
• Boost Fiber – Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes.
• Make It Keto-Friendly – Skip the rice/noodles and add more chicken and healthy fats.

💡 Want a lower-carb option? Try using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Grandma’s Chicken Soup

Here are answers to some common questions about making the best Grandma’s Chicken Soup at home.

💡 Want another cozy dish? Try our Homemade Chicken Casserole for a classic comfort meal!

Conclusion

There’s a reason Grandma’s Chicken Soup has been a family favorite for generations—it’s warm, nourishing, and packed with love in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, looking for a cozy meal, or simply craving homemade comfort food, this soup is always a perfect choice.

✅ More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you loved this Grandma’s Chicken Soup, here are more classic homemade recipes you’ll enjoy:

• White Lily Cornbread – A perfect buttery side for dipping!
• Homemade Chicken Casserole – A creamy and comforting dish.
• Green Bean Casserole – A Southern holiday favorite.

✅ Join the Conversation!

I’d love to hear how your Grandma’s Chicken Soup turned out! Leave a comment below and let me know:

• Did you add noodles, rice, or dumplings?
• What’s your favorite way to serve this soup?
• Do you have a special family twist to this recipe?

✅ Share & Stay Connected

📌 Save this recipe on Pinterest!
📢 Follow me on social media for more comforting home-cooked meals:

• Instagram: [@CathyRecipes]
• Facebook: Cathy’s Facebook Profile
• Pinterest: Cathy’s Pinterest

✅ Don’t forget to rate this recipe if you enjoyed it! Your feedback helps others find and try this delicious dish.

Print Recipe

Grandma’s Chicken Soup

Cathy

A warm, comforting bowl of Grandma’s Chicken Soup made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich homemade broth. Perfect for cold days, cozy dinners, or when you need a healing, nourishing meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 14 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Ladle
• Fine-mesh strainer (optional, for a clear broth)

Ingredients

  

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken about 3-4 lbs, cut into pieces
• 10 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 carrots peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 1 onion peeled and halved
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup egg noodles or rice – Adds extra heartiness.
• 1 small potato diced – Gives a slightly creamy texture.
• 1 teaspoon turmeric – Adds a golden color and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – If you like a little spice.

Substitutions:

• No whole chicken? Use bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for flavor.
• Want a vegetarian version? Swap chicken for chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth.
• Short on time? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and reduce cooking time.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken & Broth

• 1️⃣ Place the whole chicken (or bone-in pieces) in a large pot.
• 2️⃣ Add 10 cups of water or low-sodium broth and bring to a gentle boil.
• 3️⃣ Reduce heat to low, skimming off any foam that rises.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables & Seasonings

• 4️⃣ Stir in carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
• 5️⃣ Cover and let simmer for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.

Step 3: Remove & Shred the Chicken

• 6️⃣ Take the chicken out and place it on a cutting board.
• 7️⃣ Let it cool slightly, then shred with two forks. Discard bones and skin.

Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients (If Using)

• 8️⃣ Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
• 9️⃣ If adding noodles, rice, or potatoes, stir them in and cook for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serve

• 🔟 Taste and adjust seasoning.
• 1️⃣1️⃣ Stir in fresh parsley for extra flavor.
• 1️⃣2️⃣ Serve hot with White Lily Cornbread or crusty bread.

Notes

✅ For a clear broth: Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve before adding shredded chicken back.
✅ Storage:

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
  ✅ Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
  ✅ Make it richer: Simmer longer for deeper flavor, or add a chicken bouillon cube.

Keyword classic chicken soup, comforting soup, easy chicken soup recipe, Grandma’s chicken soup, homemade chicken soup