Chicken Noodle Soup

Introduction

Few dishes are as universally loved and comforting as a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. Known for its soothing warmth, nourishing ingredients, and timeless flavor, it’s often considered the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re under the weather, craving something light yet filling, or simply looking for a hearty homemade meal, this soup delivers every time.

The base is made with tender pieces of chicken, classic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, and egg noodles that soak up all the savory broth. Seasoned with herbs like thyme and parsley, each spoonful feels both wholesome and deeply satisfying. It’s a dish that brings back childhood memories, warms your body, and comforts your soul.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile. It requires everyday ingredients yet produces flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering in a grandmother’s kitchen for generations. I adore how customizable it is—you can use fresh herbs, add extra veggies, or swap noodles for rice, and it will still be absolutely delicious.

Another reason I cherish this recipe is how it always makes people feel cared for. Serving Chicken Noodle Soup is like giving someone a hug in a bowl. It’s light enough not to feel heavy, but hearty enough to be a full meal on its own. And best of all, it’s ready in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because:

• Universal appeal – kids and adults alike love it.
• Healing properties – often called “nature’s penicillin” for its ability to comfort during colds.
• Wholesome & balanced – protein, veggies, and carbs all in one.
• Customizable & versatile – adapt it with noodles, rice, or even dumplings.
• Perfect make-ahead meal – stores and freezes well for busy days.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: ~280 per serving
• Course: Main Dish / Soup
• Cuisine: American comfort food

Ingredients

Chicken & Broth

• 1 ½ lbs (700g) chicken thighs or breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, low-sodium preferred)
• 1 bay leaf

Vegetables & Herbs

• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Noodles

• 3 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of choice)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the chicken: In a large pot, add chicken, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked. Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
2. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add seasonings & broth: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Add thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in broth (if you set some aside). Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook noodles: Add egg noodles directly into the soup and cook according to package directions (usually 6–8 minutes).
5. Taste & adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.
6. Serve hot: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls with crusty bread, garlic toast, or saltine crackers.
• Add a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Perfect as a light dinner, lunch, or starter course for gatherings.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for richer flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the noodles—add them just before serving to prevent mushiness.
• Add lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
• If making ahead, cook noodles separately and add when serving.

Variations

1. Classic Rice Soup: Replace noodles with white or brown rice.
2. Herby Chicken Soup: Add rosemary, dill, or basil for unique flavor.
3. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in ½ cup cream or milk at the end.
4. Spicy Chicken Soup: Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce for a kick.
5. Vegetable-Loaded Soup: Add peas, corn, zucchini, or spinach.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, freeze without noodles for up to 3 months. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board & sharp knife
• Ladle for serving

Conclusion

Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a remedy all in one. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and hearty noodles, it’s a dish that nourishes the body and soul. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a friend in need, this soup delivers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen—a true classic that never goes out of style.

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Chicken Noodle Soup

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Soup & Drinks

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 6 Calories: 280 per serving

Description

Few dishes are as universally loved and comforting as a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. Known for its soothing warmth, nourishing ingredients, and timeless flavor, it’s often considered the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Chicken & Broth

• 1 ½ lbs (700g)
• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, low-sodium preferred)
• 1 bay leaf

Vegetables & Herbs

• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Noodles

• 3 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of choice)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

1. Cook the chicken: In a large pot, add chicken, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked. Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
2. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add seasonings & broth: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Add thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour in broth (if you set some aside). Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook noodles: Add egg noodles directly into the soup and cook according to package directions (usually 6–8 minutes).
5. Taste & adjust: Add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.
6. Serve hot: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.

Keywords: Chicken Noodle Soup