Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re nursing a cold, warming up on a chilly day, or simply craving a bowl of hearty, wholesome goodness, this recipe has you covered. With tender chicken, savory broth, and soft noodles, it’s a meal that soothes the soul and fills the belly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, complete with tips, storage advice, and answers to common questions.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional, for color and health benefits)
• 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A squeeze of lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and parsley, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
2. Stir in turmeric (if using) for added flavor and a warm, golden color.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

1. Add the egg noodles to the pot and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

1. Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the pot.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes to heat the chicken through and meld the flavors.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a warm biscuit.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring often.
• Freeze: Cool the soup completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without the noodles and add them fresh when reheating to avoid sogginess.

Helpful Notes

• Chicken Options: Use leftover roasted chicken, poached chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch. Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor.
• Broth Quality: A good-quality broth makes all the difference. If you have time, simmer a whole chicken or bones with vegetables and herbs for homemade stock.
• Noodle Choice: Egg noodles are traditional, but any pasta works. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or quinoa-based pasta.
• Vegetable Variations: Add spinach, kale, or peas for extra nutrients.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Ina Garten: “Use homemade chicken stock whenever possible—it adds unmatched depth of flavor to your soup.”
• Chef Thomas Keller: “Season as you go. Layering the seasoning with each step enhances the final dish.”
• Chef Julia Child: “Don’t rush the sautéing step. Let the vegetables sweat for a while to build a solid flavor base.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except noodles to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in cooked noodles before serving.

2. How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your broth is labeled gluten-free.

3. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

Absolutely! Simmer raw chicken breasts or thighs in the broth for about 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Remove, shred, and return to the pot.

4. What’s the best noodle substitute for a low-carb version?

Try zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or spaghetti squash.

5. Can I use water instead of broth?

You can, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Add extra seasoning or bouillon cubes if using water.

6. How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl just before serving.

7. Can I add potatoes?

Yes, diced potatoes make a great addition. Simmer them in the broth until tender before adding the noodles.

8. How do I thicken the soup?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the soup and let it simmer for a few minutes.

9. Can I make this dairy-free?

This soup is naturally dairy-free, so no modifications are needed!

10. What’s a good herb to replace parsley?

Try dill, thyme, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.