Chicken Noodle Soup

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food to warm your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless classic that never fails to deliver. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, filled with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and hearty noodles. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to bring everyone together around the table.

What makes this Chicken Noodle Soup so special is its rich flavor and the love that goes into making it. Each spoonful is bursting with taste and nostalgia, reminding me of chilly evenings spent with family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers or simply enjoy some good old-fashioned cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for those busy days when you crave something comforting without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this Chicken Noodle Soup! It’s a guaranteed hit at any dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time. It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize this soup with your favorite veggies or noodles to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Chicken Noodle Soup. These are items you might already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (thinly sliced)
• 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 10 to 12 cups low sodium chicken broth (I normally use 12 cups because I like a brothier soup)
• 4 thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds skinless, bone-in chicken breasts
• 1¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

For the Noodles

• 10 ounces carba-nada noodles (low carb noodles) (or use regular wide egg noodles)

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Variations

This Chicken Noodle Soup is incredibly flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients that suit your tastes.

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the noodles: Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles if you prefer.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh herbs for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions, sliced celery, and carrots. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen! Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 20 seconds—this step brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Stir in the Broth and Herbs

Next, pour in your chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—these add incredible flavor! Toss in the thyme sprigs and bay leaves before increasing the heat to high. Bring everything to a simmer; this is where all those wonderful flavors start mingling together.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Cook

Now it’s time to introduce the chicken breasts into your bubbling broth! Sprinkle in salt and pepper, give it a gentle stir, then cover and let it simmer over medium heat for about 25 to 30 minutes until cooked through. This slow cooking allows all those delicious flavors to develop.

Step 4: Remove the Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Let them cool slightly so you can shred them easily later.

Step 5: Adding Noodles

If you’re using regular egg noodles, go ahead and add them now! Cook according to package instructions—about 6 to 7 minutes until al dente. If you’re using Carba-Nada noodles, wait until you shred your chicken before adding them back into the pot since they only need about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

While your noodles are cooking away, shred that golden chicken on your cutting board. Discard any bones as you go along. Stir that shredded goodness back into your soup; cover again and let it simmer for another couple of minutes so everything warms through nicely.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Finally, remove your cozy Chicken Noodle Soup from heat. Don’t forget to discard those thyme sprigs and bay leaves—they’ve done their job beautifully! Give it a taste test; adjust salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color, serve with lemon wedges on the side, and enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Noodle Soup

Making chicken noodle soup is a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use high-quality broth: A rich, flavorful broth is the backbone of any good soup. Opting for low-sodium options allows you to control the saltiness while enhancing the overall taste.
• Don’t rush the sautéing: Taking your time to properly sauté the veggies releases their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, which can make a significant difference in your final dish.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste your soup as you go! Adding salt and pepper slowly allows you to achieve the perfect balance without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bowl even more delicious than when it’s freshly made.
• Customize with your favorite veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition and variety. This makes your soup not only tasty but also colorful and appealing!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup

Presenting chicken noodle soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to enhance both its appearance and enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the soup.
• Freshly cracked black pepper: A sprinkle on top before serving provides a little extra flavor kick that many enjoy.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side enhances the dish with a refreshing zing when squeezed over the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into your broth. The texture contrasts nicely with the soup!
• Simple green salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the heartiness of chicken noodle soup beautifully.
• Cheesy garlic breadsticks: These add an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with the comforting nature of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer a nutritious side that rounds out your meal while adding delightful flavors.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to have an unforgettable chicken noodle soup experience that’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare a large batch ahead of time, ensuring you have a comforting bowl ready whenever you need it. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftover soup into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before freezing to maintain quality.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in intervals, stirring between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Chicken Noodle Soup recipe:

Can I use other types of noodles in my Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! While we recommend carba-nada or regular egg noodles, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of noodle.

How long does homemade Chicken Noodle Soup last?

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it properly!

What can I add to my Chicken Noodle Soup for extra flavor?

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice, fresh herbs like dill or basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chicken Noodle Soup warms your heart and home just as it does mine! It’s not only delicious but also incredibly comforting—perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to share your own twists! Happy cooking!