Chicken noodle soup is a warm and cozy dish perfect for chilly days. It’s loaded with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and colorful veggies to fill your tummy with comfort!
Nothing beats the smell of chicken noodle soup bubbling away on the stove. I love making a big pot to share or freeze for later. It’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich flavor, but you can substitute it with any vegetable oil or even butter if you prefer a creamier taste. Each will bring a different essence to the soup!
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience, but feel free to use leftover roasted chicken or boil chicken breast at home. Skinless chicken thighs can also add extra flavor.
Noodles: For noodles, egg noodles are traditional, but you can try whole wheat noodles, gluten-free pasta, or even rice if you’re looking for healthier or alternative options.
Broth: While homemade chicken broth gives the best taste, low-sodium options are great for keeping it healthy. You can even use vegetable broth for a lighter soup.
Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley add great flavor, but if you have fresh herbs on hand, they’re even better! Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor right before serving.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup?
Making chicken noodle soup is simple, but there are a few techniques to ensure it turns out delicious! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot pot—this helps to sauté your veggies nicely and brings out their flavors.
- Don’t skip the sautéing! Cooking onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil softens them and releases their natural sweetness.
- Add broth after softening the veggies to create a strong base for your soup. Simmering allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Watch the noodle cooking time—overcooked noodles can become mushy. They’re best when just tender.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
Enjoy creating your comforting chicken noodle soup! It’s sure to warm both your heart and stomach. 🍲
Delicious Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled chicken breast)
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide egg pasta strips
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken noodle soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so you can have a warm, comforting bowl ready in just 40 minutes! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onion and forms the base of our soup!
2. Add the Garlic and Other Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook everything together for another 4-5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. The aroma will be amazing!
3. Pour in the Broth and Season:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Also, toss in the dried thyme, dried parsley, and the optional bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are nice and tender.
4. Add Chicken and Noodles:
Once the veggies are tender, stir in the shredded cooked chicken and egg noodles. Cook everything together for an additional 7-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them so they’re just right!
5. Final Seasoning:
Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf at this stage!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup!
This recipe is a classic for a reason—it’s nourishing, hearty, and absolutely delightful! Perfect for any day of the week. 😊🥣
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The quickest way is to place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Once thawed, you can shred it and add it to the soup as directed!
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this chicken noodle soup gluten-free by substituting regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options like rice noodles or gluten-free egg noodles. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook differently.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, leave out the noodles and freeze the broth and chicken mixture separately. When you’re ready to eat, reheat everything on the stove and add freshly cooked noodles to avoid mushiness.
Can I Use Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn to customize the soup to your liking. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so everything cooks evenly.