Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Chicken noodle soup recipe is the ultimate hug in a bowl! Picture tender chicken simmered to perfection, nestled among vibrant carrots, celery, and hearty egg noodles, all enveloped in a rich, savory broth. This classic dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day or a remedy for the soul. With fragrant herbs and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, each spoonful is a delightful journey that brings comfort and joy. Get ready to savor the goodness and create cherished memories with every bowl!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For cooking the soup.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound Chicken Breast Boneless for easy shredding.
Pasta
- 2 cups Egg Noodles Wide noodles preferred.
Vegetables
- 2 medium Carrots Sliced thin.
- 2 stalks Celery Chopped finely.
- 1 medium Onion Sauté until translucent.
- 2 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves for robust flavor.
Broth
- 6 cups Chicken Broth Low-sodium preferred.
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme For flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder For added flavor.
- to taste Black Pepper Freshly ground for best flavor.
- to taste Salt Adjust to taste after cooking.
Garnish
- to taste Parsley Chopped, for garnish.
- 2 Bay Leaves Remove before serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where the magic starts!
Step 5: Add the Noodles
- Add 2 cups of egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
- Once the noodles are tender, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 7: Final Touches
- Adjust seasoning if needed. For a fresh twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice or some chopped parsley.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy your warm, comforting chicken noodle soup with a smile!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime.
- Customizable to your taste—add veggies or spices!
- Nutritious and hearty, it’s comfort food that nourishes.
- Leftovers taste even better, making it a meal prep favorite.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Soup |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-free option available |
| Serves: | 4-6 |
| Best Served: | Warm with bread |
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Chicken – The star of the soup; use boneless for easy shredding.
- Egg Noodles – Perfect for soaking up the broth; opt for wide noodles for a hearty bite.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; slice them thin for quicker cooking.
- Celery – Provides crunch and flavor; chop finely for even distribution.
- Onion – Enhances the base flavor; sauté until translucent for the best taste.
- Garlic – Adds depth and aroma; use fresh cloves for a robust flavor.
- Chicken Broth – The flavorful foundation; choose low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- Parsley – Freshens up the dish; chop and sprinkle on top before serving.
- Bay Leaves – Infuses a subtle earthiness; remember to remove them before serving.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; freshly ground gives the best flavor.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste after cooking.
How to Make the Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Gather your ingredients: chicken, noodles, veggies, broth, and spices.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where the magic starts!
Step 5: Add the Noodles
Add 2 cups of egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes.
Step 6: Return the Chicken
Once the noodles are tender, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 7: Final Touches
Adjust seasoning if needed. For a fresh twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice or some chopped parsley.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy your warm, comforting chicken noodle soup with a smile!
Pro Tips for Making the Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Use homemade broth for richer flavor; it makes a world of difference.
- Don’t overcook the noodles; add them towards the end to keep them al dente.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme elevate the taste; sprinkle them in just before serving.
- For extra nutrition, toss in some spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Let the soup sit for a bit after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully as it cools slightly.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for a zesty twist.
- Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
- Serve in a bread bowl for a fun and edible dish.
- Complement with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.
- For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted vegetables.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store your delicious chicken noodle soup leftovers:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Label with the date for easy reference.
- Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days.
Freezing
For freezing your chicken noodle soup:
- Cool the soup completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat your soup for the best taste:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat.
- Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
- Stir occasionally until heated through.
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FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the soup?
You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a leaner option. If you prefer more flavor, bone-in chicken pieces work wonderfully too. Just remember to remove the bones before serving!
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chicken noodle soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the noodles until you’re ready to serve, as they can become mushy when thawed.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, you can use whole wheat pasta, rice, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
How can I make the soup richer in flavor?
Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. You can also sauté onions, garlic, and carrots before adding the broth to enhance the flavor base!