Indulging in a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup is like receiving a cozy hug on a cold day. The aroma of simmering chicken mingling with fragrant herbs fills your kitchen, promising comfort in every spoonful. This delightful dish not only warms your heart but also tickles your taste buds with its savory goodness, making it a must-have in any home.
Remember those rainy afternoons where you curled up with a good book and a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup? It’s the ultimate remedy for everything from sniffles to sadness. There’s something about the tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and vibrant vegetables that evokes nostalgia and warmth. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to loved ones during family gatherings, this recipe promises to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken noodle soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Its rich flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds
- The colorful ingredients make it visually appealing and appetizing
- You can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand for added versatility
I’ll never forget the time I made this chicken noodle soup for my friends during a snowstorm. We ended up having a spontaneous soup party, complete with laughter and plenty of seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts provide the perfect base for this hearty soup.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color; choose firm ones for best results.
Celery: Celery brings crunch and depth; look for stalks that are crisp and bright green.
Onion: A medium onion offers aromatic flavor; chop it finely for even distribution throughout the soup.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor; use about 3 cloves minced for optimal taste.
Egg Noodles: These noodles cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully; opt for wide egg noodles if you can find them.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level; homemade broth is ideal if available.
Herbs (Thyme & Parsley): Fresh thyme and parsley enhance flavor; use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference.
Lemon Juice (Optional): A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully; add it just before serving for freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas!
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping your carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces. Keep them handy because they’ll be diving into the pot soon enough.
Sauté Vegetables Delightfully: Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until they are soft and translucent—about 5-7 minutes—while inhaling that irresistible aroma.
Add Chicken & Broth Magic: Toss in your boneless chicken breasts along with minced garlic. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything completely—about 8 cups should do the trick. Bring this flavorful concoction to a boil.
Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough that it almost begs to be shredded.
Noodle Time!: Remove the chicken from the pot once cooked and set aside. Stir in egg noodles into the bubbling broth and cook according to package instructions—usually around 7-10 minutes until al dente.
Add Finishing Touches: Shred the chicken using two forks while noodles are cooking. Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired. Stir well to combine all those glorious flavors.
Now you have an aromatic bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup ready to enjoy!
Serve hot alongside crusty bread or crackers for an unforgettable meal that warms both heart and soul!
You Must Know
- This classic chicken noodle soup recipe is comforting and customizable
- Add seasonal vegetables for more flavor, and don’t forget to use high-quality broth for a rich taste
- The aroma of simmering chicken and spices will fill your kitchen like a warm hug
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken to sear. Cook pasta separately while the soup simmers to avoid sogginess. This ensures everything melds perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Toss in fresh herbs like dill or thyme for added depth. You can also add veggies like carrots or spinach for nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water if necessary to keep it soupy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Crafting the perfect chicken noodle soup involves using homemade broth for richer flavors
- Remember to adjust seasoning gradually, as you can always add more but can’t take it out
- Don’t skip fresh herbs; they elevate the dish significantly!
I once made this chicken noodle soup for a gathering, and everyone kept asking for the recipe. It felt great knowing my simple creation could bring so much joy and warmth to family and friends.
FAQ
What is the best type of chicken for this recipe?
Using bone-in chicken thighs adds flavor and tenderness to your soup.
Can I freeze leftover chicken noodle soup?
Yes, but avoid freezing with noodles; they become mushy when reheated.
How long should I simmer the soup?
Simmer your soup for at least 30 minutes to develop deep flavors before serving.
Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup
Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of homemade chicken noodle soup. This classic recipe features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and egg noodles simmered in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, each bowl promises to warm your soul and revive fond memories. Quick to prepare, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, leaving everyone satisfied and asking for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups wide egg noodles
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tbsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add carrots and celery; cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and add chicken breasts to the pot.
- Pour in chicken broth to cover the ingredients completely; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken from the pot; stir in egg noodles and cook according to package instructions.
- Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot along with thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice. Stir well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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