Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that’s been soothing souls for generations. With its warm, savory broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles, it’s the perfect meal for a chilly day, or when you need something to lift your spirits. Not only is it deeply comforting, but it’s also incredibly nourishing, making it a go-to for everything from a quick lunch to a healing meal when you’re feeling under the weather. This version is simple to make, but it’s packed with flavor and made from wholesome ingredients that make you feel like you’re getting a big hug in a bowl.
The beauty of this chicken noodle soup lies in its simplicity. The broth is made from simmering chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a rich and flavorful base. Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, it’s added back into the pot along with egg noodles, which soak up the delicious broth and add heartiness to each bite. You can customize this soup to your liking by adjusting the vegetables, seasoning, or even the type of noodles used. It’s a flexible and satisfying meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
– Servings: 4-6 servings
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Simple Ingredients: You only need basic pantry staples like tomatoes, garlic, and pasta to create a delicious, satisfying meal.
2. Quick & Easy: With a 30-minute cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and flavorful fast.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the sauce, add extra vegetables or meats, and even make it your own with different seasonings.
4. Comforting: This dish is the ultimate comfort food—perfectly cooked pasta smothered in a rich, savory sauce is always satisfying.
5. Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good plate of spaghetti, making this an ideal choice for families, dinner parties, or potlucks.
Ingredients Notes
– Chicken: Bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for making the broth flavorful and tender. Thighs are slightly more forgiving in terms of moisture, while breasts are leaner. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
– Noodles: Egg noodles are traditionally used in chicken noodle soup, but you can substitute with other pasta types like bowtie, rotini, or whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
– Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions are the classic base for this soup. You can also add garlic, parsnips, or a handful of spinach for extra nutrition.
– Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the seasoning, or homemade broth if you have it on hand for richer flavor.
– Herbs: Fresh or dried thyme and bay leaves are essential for a flavorful broth. You can also experiment with parsley or dill to add brightness to the soup.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Prepare the Chicken and Broth: In a large pot, add the chicken breasts (or thighs), carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Cover with water (about 6 cups) and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
2. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any bones if using bone-in chicken. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
3. Add the Noodles: Bring the broth back to a gentle boil, then add the egg noodles (or pasta of choice). Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente.
4. Season the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a dash of lemon juice or fresh herbs for brightness.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Storage Options
– Refrigerator: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to loosen the soup.
– Freezer: Chicken noodle soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Note that the noodles may soften slightly after freezing, but the soup will still taste great.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free version, use vegetable broth and add plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. You can also add more beans or lentils for added protein.
– Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with a bit of smoked paprika for depth.
– Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: For a creamier texture, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of sour cream toward the end of cooking.
– Herb Variations: Fresh dill, rosemary, or sage can add unique flavors to the soup. Add them along with the thyme and bay leaves, or use them as a garnish.
– Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles or substitute with rice for a different texture.
Conclusion
Chicken noodle soup is a dish that has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s nourishing, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. This simple recipe highlights the power of basic ingredients—chicken, vegetables, and noodles—creating a soup that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re sick, craving comfort, or just looking for a wholesome meal, this chicken noodle soup will not disappoint. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite additions or substitutions, making it a meal that’s always a hit with the whole family. Enjoy it fresh or freeze a batch for later; either way, it’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.