Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is everything you need on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s not just any soup; it’s a bowl of comfort, packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant veggies that make every spoonful a delight.

This recipe is a family favorite for good reason. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones when you want something simple yet satisfying. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to soup for all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it easy to whip up even on the busiest days.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, and this version is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it whenever you’re ready to enjoy.
• Flavorful Goodness: Each ingredient adds its own special touch, creating a rich and delicious taste that stands out from the usual bland soups.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. They come together beautifully to create the ultimate comforting bowl of Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup.

For the Soup

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 2 cups diced carrots (This was 3 carrots for me.)
• 1 cup diced celery (This was 3 celery stalks for me.)
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 7-8 cups chicken broth or stock (See notes.)
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Boullion Chicken Flavor (Optional for Flavor.)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (Adjust to taste.)
• 6-7 oz egg noodles (This was about 3 cups for me.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on what you have or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts for an even quicker option.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
• Experiment with noodles: Try using whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for alternatives.

How to Make Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken breasts in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial because it sets the base flavor of your soup. Once cooked through, remove them from the pot to cool slightly before shredding them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they start to soften and become fragrant—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, which enhances the overall flavor of your soup!

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broth

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes aromatic. Then pour in your chicken broth (or stock) along with that optional Better Than Bouillon for an extra flavor boost. Don’t forget to toss in that bay leaf too!

Step 4: Season It Up

Now’s the time to season! Add ground thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Remember, soup benefits from seasoning as it cooks—so don’t be afraid to adjust as needed!

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Add Noodles & Chicken

After simmering, stir in those egg noodles along with your shredded chicken. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. This step makes sure that everything is perfectly tender without getting mushy.

Step 7: Finish with Lemon Juice

Before serving, squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten up all those rich flavors. Taste one last time—this is where you can make small adjustments before dishing out bowls of happiness!

And there you have it! Your very own Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup ready to warm hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Making the perfect bowl of homestyle chicken noodle soup is all about the little details. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is flavorful and satisfying every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, bringing brightness that frozen or canned options can’t match.

• Season as you go: Adding salt and pepper throughout the cooking process allows the flavors to build up, creating a richer and more complex taste in your final dish.

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Adding noodles toward the end of the cooking time helps prevent mushiness. This keeps them firm and enjoyable, adding a great texture to your soup.

• Add lemon juice at the end: A splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the soup, cutting through any heaviness while adding a lovely zing.

• Feel free to customize: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or herbs! Peas, corn, or even spinach can be great additions that personalize your soup.

How to Serve Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving your homestyle chicken noodle soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only elevates the visual appeal but also enhances the overall taste with its aromatic kick.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with lemon wedges allows guests to squeeze in their desired amount of tanginess right into their bowls.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the broth, offering a delightful contrast in texture.
• Simple Salad: A light green salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar offers a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: These cheesy delights add an indulgent touch to your meal and are perfect for sopping up any leftover broth.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies provide a wholesome side that pairs beautifully with chicken noodle soup, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your homestyle chicken noodle soup will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for days. Plus, the flavors only get better as it sits.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date so you can keep track.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion when freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your bags with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally for even heating.
• If using a microwave, heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely and stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time. Just shred it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I make my Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or dill, and don’t skip on seasoning with salt and pepper. A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end also brightens everything up!

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options available in stores.

How long does this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup last in the fridge?

Stored properly, it will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find comfort in this warm and delicious Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup as much as I do! It’s a recipe that brings family together and warms hearts on chilly days. Enjoy creating this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations you try—I love hearing from you! Happy cooking!