Warm and cozy, chicken noodle soup is a classic favorite. Tender chicken and soft noodles swim in a delicious broth, making it perfect for any chilly day!
I love how this soup feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s super easy to whip up and is my go-to remedy when I’m feeling under the weather! Who needs a fancy dinner when you have this? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: A flavorful chicken broth is the base of this soup. If you’re short on time, low-sodium store-bought broth works fine. You can even swap it for vegetable broth for a lighter version!
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken because it’s easy and packed with flavor. If you have leftover cooked chicken, go ahead and use that instead. You can also use turkey for a tasty twist!
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but any noodle like whole wheat or even gluten-free options work well. Adjust cooking time based on the type you choose. I like using spinach noodles for a pop of color!
Vegetables: The mix of carrots, onions, and celery is classic. Feel free to add in other veggies like peas or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor!
How Do You Make Sure the Noodles Don’t Get Mushy?
A common issue with chicken noodle soup is mushy noodles. To avoid this, you can cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving. This keeps them firm and prevents them from soaking up too much broth.
- Boil noodles in salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- When serving, add the noodles to the bowl first, then ladle the hot soup over them. This way, they stay just right!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup! It’s a fantastic dish that warms both the heart and the soul. 😊
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled chicken breast)
- 2 cups egg noodles or any preferred noodle type
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley, plus extra fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken noodle soup recipe will take about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking them, plus a bit of time for simmering the soup to perfection. It’s a quick and hearty meal that doesn’t keep you in the kitchen for long!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, and the onions turn a little translucent. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and it’s smelling good already!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the garlic cooking. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Prepare the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and turn up the heat until it reaches a boil. Watch out for bubbling—they can happen quickly!
4. Mix in Chicken and Herbs:
Now, add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This gives the chicken and herbs time to mingle and let all those flavors come alive!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Time for the noodles! Add them into the pot and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally until they’re tender, which will take about 7-10 minutes. If you’re using a different type of noodle, adjust cooking time as necessary.
6. Season the Soup:
Once the noodles are cooked, give your soup a taste. This is the moment to season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Make sure it’s just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your chicken noodle soup is just about ready! Ladle it into bowls, and add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of happiness!
This delightful recipe promises a golden broth filled with tender chicken pieces, soft noodles, and veggie goodness, just like the comforting image you shared. Perfect for a cozy day!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, shred it and add it to the soup as directed.
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Make sure your chicken broth is also gluten-free, as some store-bought varieties might contain gluten. Cook the noodles separately to maintain their texture, if desired!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies or legumes to enhance the flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. If the noodles soak up too much broth, feel free to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up when reheating.
