Chicken noodle soup is more than just a comfort food—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need a nourishing meal on a chilly day, or simply crave a classic dish with a modern twist, this recipe delivers. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a medley of vegetables swimming in a savory, herby broth. It’s the kind of soup that fills your home with inviting aromas and makes you feel instantly better.
What makes chicken noodle soup so special? It’s the balance between simplicity and depth of flavor. With a few high-quality ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a bowl of soup that’s not only comforting but also loaded with nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a perfect option for families, meal prep, or even a quick lunch at work.
“There is nothing as healing as a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, a timeless remedy that comforts both body and soul.”
In this article, we’ll break down every step of preparing chicken noodle soup—from sautéing aromatics to simmering the broth until it’s rich and flavorful. We’ll share tips, tricks, and variations so you can make this classic dish your own. So, tie on your apron, grab your favorite spoon, and let’s dive into creating a soup that warms you from the inside out.
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
How to Make chicken noodle soup – Step By Step Picture
Follow this step-by-step guide to create a comforting and delicious chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients
- Chicken: Preferably bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for extra flavor.
- Noodles: Egg noodles or your favorite pasta.
- Vegetables: Chopped carrots, celery, and onions.
- Aromatics: Garlic and fresh herbs such as thyme and parsley.
- Broth: Chicken broth for a rich base.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a bay leaf.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing.
Equipment
- Large Soup Pot: A heavy pot or Dutch oven to hold all your ingredients.
- Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping vegetables and prepping the chicken.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the soup.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: To measure broth and seasonings.
- Ladle: For serving your delicious soup.
Instructions
Step-1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large soup pot. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their savory aroma into the kitchen. This step lays the flavor foundation for your soup.
Step-2: Add Vegetables
Next, add chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté them briefly with the onions and garlic. The vegetables will start to soften and release their natural sweetness, contributing depth to the broth.
Step-3: Prepare the Chicken
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare your chicken. Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) on a cutting board. If desired, you can lightly season them with salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme to enhance their flavor.
Step-4: Add Chicken and Herbs
Once the vegetables have softened, carefully place the chicken and a few sprigs of fresh herbs (like thyme and parsley) into the pot. These herbs will infuse the broth with a delicate, aromatic flavor as the chicken cooks.
Step-5: Pour in the Broth
Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients in the pot. Add a bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. The broth will serve as the soul of the soup, carrying all the flavors together.
Step-6: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Allow the chicken and vegetables to cook slowly so that the flavors meld together. This slow simmering process is key to developing a rich, hearty broth.
Step-7: Shred the Chicken
After about 25-30 minutes of simmering, remove the chicken from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to incorporate it into the broth.
Step-8: Add the Noodles
Now it’s time for the noodles. Add a bag of egg noodles (or your favorite pasta) directly into the pot. Let them cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles will absorb the flavors of the broth, becoming wonderfully infused with all the savory goodness.
Step-9: Final Simmer and Adjust Seasoning
Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the noodles are fully cooked. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs as desired.
Step-10: Serve the Soup
Ladle the hot, comforting soup into bowls. For an added touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. The final product should be a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup that’s rich, hearty, and utterly satisfying.
Step-11: Enjoy with a Smile
Take a moment to appreciate the aroma, texture, and flavor of your homemade chicken noodle soup. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete, nourishing meal.
“A warm bowl of chicken noodle soup has the power to soothe your soul and rejuvenate your spirit—it’s comfort in every spoonful.”
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it in a deep bowl to keep it warm, and pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce. This soup is ideal for any time of the day, whether it’s a hearty lunch, a comforting dinner, or a nourishing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather.
Tips For best experience chicken noodle soup
- Slow Simmer: Let the soup simmer slowly to allow the flavors to develop fully.
- Fresh Herbs: Always add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to retain their vibrant flavor.
- Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer, more authentic taste.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or parsnips to customize your soup.
- Perfect Noodles: Add noodles at the end to prevent them from becoming too soft.
Additional Recipe Ideas
For those looking to expand on this classic, consider adding a twist by incorporating different herbs or vegetables. Try a lemon-infused version by adding a splash of lemon juice at the end, or mix in some leafy greens like kale for extra nutrition. The beauty of chicken noodle soup lies in its versatility—experiment with your favorite ingredients to create a version that’s uniquely yours.
Tips for Recipe Variations
Explore different flavor profiles by switching up your seasonings. You might add a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Additionally, consider using different types of noodles or even a mix of pasta shapes for an interesting texture. Each small change can elevate your soup to new heights, making it a dish you’ll want to recreate time and again.
FAQS
What type of chicken works best for this soup?
Bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best as they add extra flavor to the broth.
Can I make chicken noodle soup in advance?
Yes, chicken noodle soup can be made in advance and reheated. However, add the noodles just before serving to avoid mushiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Freezing is possible, but the noodles may become a bit mushy upon thawing. For best results, freeze the broth separately and add freshly cooked noodles when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts – Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is the epitome of comfort food—a warm, soothing bowl that nourishes both body and soul. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich broth filled with vegetables and herbs, this soup is a true classic. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a staple that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
“In a world that moves too fast, a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup reminds us to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life.”
So, why not make a pot of chicken noodle soup today? Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying a quiet meal alone, this soup is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Happy cooking, and may your spoon always find the perfect blend of flavor and nourishment!
Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
- – Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- – Cutting board & knife
- – Wooden spoon
- – Measuring cups & spoons
- – Ladle
Ingredients
- – 2 bone-in skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- – 1 large onion chopped
- – 3 cloves garlic minced
- – 3 carrots peeled and diced
- – 3 celery stalks diced
- – 8 cups chicken broth
- – 1 bay leaf
- – 1 tsp dried thyme or a few sprigs fresh thyme
- – 2 cups egg noodles or your favorite pasta
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft and translucent.
- Add diced carrots and celery, cooking until they begin to soften.
- Place chicken and herbs (thyme and bay leaf) in the pot.
- Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Add egg noodles and cook until tender, about 7 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
calories: 250 per serving