Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, beloved for its hearty flavors and soothing qualities. Perfect for chilly days, soothing a cold, or just when you need a taste of home, this classic recipe combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and soft noodles in a flavorful broth. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a pot of homemade goodness in no time.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or your favorite noodle type)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Preparation
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, parsley, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add the Chicken and Noodles
- Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles.
- Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to your liking.
4. Taste and Adjust
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- For added brightness, stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
Variation Ideas
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add 1/2 cup heavy cream or a splash of milk for a rich, creamy twist.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute noodles with spiralized zucchini or cooked cauliflower rice.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
- Vegan Substitute: Swap chicken with chickpeas, use vegetable broth, and add more veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
Cooking Notes
- For the richest flavor, make your own chicken broth by simmering a whole chicken or chicken bones with vegetables and herbs.
- If using pre-cooked noodles, add them to the soup just before serving to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chicken noodle soup with warm crusty bread, buttery crackers, or a simple green salad for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Tips
- Make it Ahead: Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: To freeze, skip the noodles during preparation and add them fresh when reheating.
- Boost the Broth: For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a dash of fish sauce to the broth.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
Yes! Simmer raw chicken breasts or thighs in the broth until fully cooked (about 20 minutes), then shred the meat and return it to the soup.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I substitute other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or farfalle work well as substitutes for egg noodles.
Conclusion
This homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re craving a classic comfort food or looking to warm up on a chilly day, this recipe is a timeless choice. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and hearty noodles, it’s a dish that brings people together. Give it a try and experience the magic of homemade soup!