This chicken noodle soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming your soul on a chilly day or soothing you when you’re feeling under the weather. With tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles swimming in a rich, savory broth, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this chicken noodle soup recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. With a blend of fresh herbs and spices, the broth is aromatic and satisfying, while the chicken is tender and juicy. This recipe is incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for novice cooks or busy families. Plus, it’s a wholesome meal that fits well into a balanced diet, offering lean protein and plenty of veggies all in one dish. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Tips and Tricks
- Use bone-in chicken for a richer flavor in your broth. If you prefer, boneless chicken breasts work just as well.
- Sauté your vegetables before adding the broth; this enhances their flavor and adds depth to the soup.
- For a quick version, use rotisserie chicken. Just shred and add it to the broth towards the end of cooking.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, especially adding salt and pepper to your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles can lead to mushiness; cook them only until al dente and add them just before serving.
- Skipping the sautéing step can result in a less flavorful broth; don’t rush this part!
- Using expired or stale ingredients can affect the taste; always check the freshness of your herbs and spices.
- Forgetting to adjust the seasoning at the end can lead to bland soup; always taste before serving.
Make Ahead Tips
This chicken noodle soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also cook the chicken and broth ahead of time, storing them separately, and then combine them with fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve. The soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to three months.
Recipe Variations
- For a creamy chicken noodle soup, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Swap out egg noodles for whole grain or gluten-free options to fit dietary preferences.
- Add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach to customize the soup according to what’s fresh.
- Try adding spices like turmeric or ginger for an added health kick.
How to Serve
Serve your chicken noodle soup hot in a deep bowl, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an elegant touch, consider a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your chicken noodle soup with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light herbal tea for a cozy touch. For side dishes, consider a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some warm, buttery garlic bread. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet can provide a refreshing finish to your comforting meal.
How to Store
Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the consistency.
Equipment Needed
- A large pot or Dutch oven for simmering the soup
- A cutting board and sharp knife for chopping veggies
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- A wooden spoon for stirring and tasting
- Optional: A slow cooker if you prefer a hands-off cooking method.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this chicken noodle soup vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a nut-free version, ensure that any added ingredients, like seasonings or noodles, are certified nut-free. You can also use gluten-free noodles and check the broth for gluten content.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the winter, use hearty root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, while in the spring, add peas and asparagus for a fresher take. Summer can bring in zucchini and fresh herbs, while fall can be a great time to incorporate butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this chicken noodle soup recipe is about $10-$15, serving 6 people. This equates to roughly $1.50-$2.50 per serving, depending on the ingredients you choose. To save money, consider using frozen vegetables or buying chicken on sale.
Kitchen Hacks
- To quickly peel garlic, crush the cloves with the flat side of a knife; the skins will slip right off!
- When chopping onions, keep a piece of bread in your mouth to absorb the sulfuric compounds that cause tears.
- Use kitchen shears to easily shred cooked chicken without the need for forks.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? Yes, but it will take longer to cook through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- What can I substitute for egg noodles? You can use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or even rice.
- How long does this soup take to cook? The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking.
- Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Just add all ingredients (except noodles) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add noodles in the last 30 minutes.
How To Make chicken noodle soup recipe
Chicken Noodle Soup
This chicken noodle soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming your soul on a chilly day or soothing you when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts (or thighs) to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the egg noodles and continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 303Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 114mgSodium 1398mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 34g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This chicken noodle soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a tradition, a remedy, and a celebration of comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish embodies warmth and nourishment. With its ease of preparation and adaptability, it’s bound to become a cherished staple in your home. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this timeless classic!