Mom’s Chicken Soup

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken soup, and this one is extra special—Mom’s Chicken Soup. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s one of those dishes that can heal both the body and the soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something warm and satisfying, this soup is the answer. The rich broth, tender chicken, and the soft vegetables come together in perfect harmony, creating a flavor-packed bowl of comfort that truly feels like a hug from the inside out.

Growing up, whenever anyone in the family wasn’t feeling well or needed a pick-me-up, my mom would make this soup. The kitchen would fill with the scent of simmering herbs, and before long, everyone would be gathered around the table, eagerly waiting for a taste. I can’t help but smile every time I make this soup—it’s a recipe full of memories, and every spoonful brings back those cozy moments.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soothing and Comforting: Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh veggies that you probably already have at home.
• Rich, Flavorful Broth: The homemade broth is the heart of this soup, full of deep, comforting flavor.
• Customizable: Add or swap vegetables and seasonings to make it your own.
• Filling and Satisfying: This soup is hearty and filling, thanks to the chicken and veggies.
• Nostalgic: It’s more than just a soup—it’s a dish full of love and family memories.
• Quick to Make: Although it’s homemade, it’s quick to prepare, so you won’t be spending all day in the kitchen.
• One-Pot Wonder: You only need one pot, making clean-up a breeze.
• Great for Leftovers: The soup tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Perfect for All Ages: The mild flavors are great for everyone in the family, from young kids to adults.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbohydrates: 22g, Fat: 7g, Protein: 24g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mom’s Chicken Soup:

For the Soup:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 4 chicken breasts or thighs, skinless and boneless
• 10 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: The heart of the soup. Whether you use a whole chicken or chicken breasts, it provides the deep, rich flavor that makes this soup so comforting.
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables add flavor and texture. They’re classics in any chicken soup, providing a slight sweetness and crunch.
• Garlic and Onion: Aromatic veggies that build the flavor base for the soup. They provide the perfect savory foundation.
• Herbs: Thyme and bay leaves bring an earthy, fragrant element to the broth.
• Egg Noodles: They soak up the delicious broth and make the soup hearty and satisfying.
• Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, and using a good-quality broth or homemade broth makes a huge difference in flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken (whole or cut pieces) and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until lightly browned. If you’re using a whole chicken, simply sear it in the pot to get some color on the skin. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the bay leaves and thyme. Lower the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the broth to absorb the flavors. If you’re using a whole chicken, it might take a little longer—up to 45 minutes—depending on the size of the chicken.

Prepare the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Veggies: While the chicken is simmering, heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Combine Everything

1. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the broth.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the sautéed veggies and garlic into the pot with the chicken and broth. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
3. Add the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Before serving, sprinkle the soup with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with some crusty bread on the side for dipping.

How to Serve

Here are a few ways to serve Mom’s Chicken Soup:

1. As a Cozy Meal: Serve in bowls alongside a slice of homemade or toasted bread for dipping.
2. For Lunch: It’s a perfect lunchtime meal when you need something comforting and filling.
3. As a Family Dinner: Serve it family-style in a large pot, allowing everyone to scoop out a bowl of soup.
4. With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance out the warmth of the soup.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips for making Mom’s Chicken Soup even better:

1. Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, use homemade chicken broth. It adds an extra layer of richness and flavor to the soup.
2. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like parsnips, zucchini, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. For Extra Richness: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of butter to the soup for a creamy, comforting texture.
4. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the noodles toward the end of cooking, as they can become mushy if they cook too long.
5. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

Recipe Variations

Here are some ways to mix things up:

• Chicken and Rice Soup: Substitute the noodles for rice if you prefer it over pasta.
• Herb-Infused: Add extra herbs like rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta or rice to make this soup suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and skip any added salt to reduce the sodium content.

Freezing and Storage

This soup is perfect for meal prep:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Special Equipment

You don’t need any special tools for this recipe, but these might help:

• Large Pot: For cooking the chicken and simmering the soup.
• Shredding Forks: For easily shredding the chicken once it’s cooked.
• Soup Ladle: To serve the soup into bowls.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?
A: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute and cook faster than a whole chicken.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can! Simply place the chicken, broth, veggies, and seasonings in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred the chicken before serving.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Yes, feel free to add any veggies you like, such as potatoes, peas, or green beans. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

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Conclusion

There’s something about the familiar taste of Mom’s Chicken Soup that always makes me feel like everything’s going to be okay. It’s warm, nourishing, and always hits the spot—whether it’s a chilly day or you’re in need of a little comfort food therapy. The rich broth, tender chicken, and a mix of fresh vegetables come together to create the ultimate cozy meal. Every bite feels like a hug from the inside out, and there’s no better way to ease a long day than with a big bowl of this homemade goodness.

Give this recipe a try, and I bet it’ll become your go-to whenever you need a bowl of love. Plus, it’s super customizable, so feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly your own. The best part? It’s easy to make and even better as leftovers!

Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy and happy cooking!