Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home, especially on chilly days when all you want is something cozy and comforting. I love how simple it is to whip up from scratch with everyday ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

This soup has a way of bringing everyone together. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, you’ll find that this recipe hits the spot every time. So grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this soup bubbling away in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a classic chicken noodle soup! It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple and nourishing ingredients, it’s not just delicious but also good for you.
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and savory broth creates a flavor that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup uses simple, wholesome items you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled & sliced)
• 2 sticks celery (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Broth

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts (boneless skinless)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Noodles

• 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have or prefer.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of uncooked chicken breasts for an even quicker meal.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and color!
• Try different noodles: If egg noodles aren’t your thing, use whole wheat pasta or even rice for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick if you enjoy some heat in your soup.

How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding the olive oil and butter to your soup pot over medium-high heat. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and start to release their delightful aromas. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. Garlic adds such wonderful depth of flavor to your dish; it really brings everything to life!

Step 3: Combine Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and water along with your uncooked chicken breasts and Italian seasoning. Turn up the heat until it reaches a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly, cover with the lid slightly ajar, and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

After simmering, stir in your egg noodles and cook them uncovered for another 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot—this ensures that every bite is perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once the noodles are cooked through, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to its cozy broth. Make sure it’s fully cooked; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your soup generously with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some fresh parsley right before serving—it adds a lovely touch of freshness!

And there you have it—your very own bowl of Easy Chicken Noodle Soup! Enjoy each spoonful filled with warmth and love; I know your family will adore this comforting dish as much as mine does!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating the perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup is all about a few simple tricks to enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs add vibrant flavors and nutrients, making your soup not just tasty but also healthy.

• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery at the beginning brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the soup.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as you go. This way, you can control the seasoning without overdoing it.

• Cook noodles separately (if desired): If you prefer your noodles to maintain their texture, consider cooking them separately and adding them to individual bowls when serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy in the broth.

• Make it ahead of time: Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the next day! Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy meal that’s ready when you are.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving up a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle these on top for a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon adds brightness and balances the richness of the broth.
• Croutons or toasted bread: Add crunch with croutons or serve alongside toasted bread for dipping—perfect for sopping up the savory broth!

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful broth—a true comfort food pairing!
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your meal without overwhelming flavors.
• Rice or Quinoa: A small serving of rice or quinoa can be a great addition if you want something hearty on the side that pairs well with chicken noodle soup.

There you have it! Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this easy chicken noodle soup will surely warm hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty comfort food throughout the week. You can easily make a big batch and store it for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.
• For best results, freeze without noodles as they may become mushy upon reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about making this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup.

Can I use leftover chicken for Easy Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time. Simply add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.

What can I substitute for egg noodles in this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup recipe?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions!

How do I make this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort during chilly days. Enjoy every spoonful and feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Happy cooking!