Grandma's Chicken Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 210 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (5-pound) whole chicken
• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 pound celery, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 bunch fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 10 cups warm water (or as needed)

Directions

1. Clean the chicken and remove some of the fat, but not all. Place the chicken in a large saucepan.
2. Add the carrots, celery, chopped tomatoes, and onion to the saucepan.
3. Take the dill sprigs, tie them together with kitchen twine, and add to the saucepan.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
5. Pour in enough warm water to cover the chicken by 2 inches.
6. Cook over medium-low heat for about 3 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Once cooled, remove the meat from the bones and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the meat to the saucepan and discard the bones.
9. Simmer the soup over medium-low heat for another 30 minutes to heat through.
10. Before serving, remove the bunch of dill from the soup.

Cook's Note

If you prefer not to include tomatoes in the soup, you can simply add a whole tomato for flavor, and remove it once the soup is done.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount
Calories	630
Total Fat	53g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	101mg
Sodium	908mg
Total Carbohydrate	11g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	26g
Vitamin C	15mg
Calcium	89mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	672mg

Servings per Recipe: 8

Percent Daily Value: Based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History and Heritage of Grandma's Chicken Soup

Grandma's chicken soup is much more than a comforting meal; it is a culinary tradition with deep historical roots. Chicken soups have been cherished across cultures for centuries, often associated with home remedies and family gatherings. In America, the concept of grandmas chicken soup became iconic in the 19th and 20th centuries as European immigrants adapted their ancestral recipes using locally available ingredients. The slow-simmered broth, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables reflect the values of simplicity, nourishment, and care that grandmothers brought to the kitchen.

Regional Variations

While this recipe is rooted in American home cooking, regional adaptations abound. In the Northeast, it is common to include root vegetables like parsnips or turnips, adding earthy flavors to the broth. Southern versions may incorporate okra or corn for extra texture, while Midwestern families often favor egg noodles or matzo balls. Herbs vary widely, but dill and parsley are traditional, lending a fragrant, herbal note that differentiates regional interpretations.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Although chicken soup exists in nearly every cuisine, Grandmas chicken soup distinguishes itself through its balance of simplicity and depth of flavor. Unlike instant or broth-based soups, this recipe emphasizes slow-cooked, whole chicken combined with fresh vegetables, creating a rich, nutrient-packed broth. Compared to chicken noodle soup, which relies heavily on pasta, Grandmas chicken soup often highlights vegetables and the quality of the homemade stock, resulting in a more robust and wholesome dish.

Typical Occasions and Serving

Grandmas chicken soup is commonly served during family dinners, particularly in cooler months or as a remedy for minor ailments. It is a staple in holiday meals, comforting weekend lunches, and gatherings where warmth and nourishment are valued. Served hot in large bowls, often with a side of crusty bread or fresh rolls, it embodies both sustenance and tradition.

Interesting Facts

• Chicken soup has been historically regarded as a natural remedy for colds and flu, with studies showing mild anti-inflammatory effects.
• The addition of whole herbs like dill in this recipe is a nod to traditional European methods, enhancing both flavor and aroma.
• Simmering the chicken slowly for hours allows collagen and nutrients from the bones to enrich the broth, making it both tasty and nourishing.
• The use of whole vegetables and minimal processing reflects a farm-to-table approach long before the term became popular.
• Some families pass down secret variations, such as the addition of a single whole tomato to subtly enhance color and taste without altering the final texture.

Grandmas chicken soup remains a symbol of care and culinary heritage, bridging generations with its warmth, flavor, and timeless appeal.

FAQ about Grandma's Chicken Soup Recipe

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