Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or simply craving a warm and nourishing meal. This classic recipe is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, making it a delicious and wholesome dish. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken (bone-in or boneless, such as thighs or breasts)
• Egg noodles
• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Water
• Bay leaves
• Fresh or dried thyme
• Fresh or dried parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil or butter

Directions

1. Cook the chicken – In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear until lightly browned.
2. Sauté the vegetables – Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, then stir in minced garlic.
3. Add the broth and seasonings – Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the chicken is tender.
4. Shred the chicken – Remove the cooked chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.
5. Cook the noodles – Add the egg noodles and let them cook in the broth until tender.
6. Final touches – Stir in fresh parsley, adjust seasoning to taste, and remove bay leaves before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Make it creamy – Stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk for a richer texture.
• Low-carb option – Swap the egg noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy version – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Gluten-free – Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of traditional egg noodles.
• Slow cooker method – Cook everything (except noodles) in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours, then add noodles at the end.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the soup without noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water.

FAQs

How can I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl before serving to keep them from absorbing too much broth.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred and add it to the broth.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are classic, but you can use any pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even rice.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more over time. Just store it properly and reheat when needed.

How can I thicken the broth?

For a thicker soup, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the broth.

What vegetables can I add?

Peas, corn, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.

Is this soup good for colds?

Yes! The warm broth and nutritious ingredients can help soothe a sore throat and provide comfort.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, just avoid adding cream or butter, and use olive oil instead.

How can I add more flavor?

Use homemade broth, add a parmesan rind while simmering, or stir in a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer, and reheat with a little extra broth to refresh the flavors.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or to help fight off a cold, this classic dish never disappoints. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a warm bowl of homemade goodness!

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