This Chicken Noodle Soup is warm, cozy, and perfect for brightening your day! With tender chicken, soft noodles, and lots of veggies, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
Whenever I’m feeling under the weather, this soup is my go-to. A little broth goes a long way, and it warms my soul—plus, it’s super simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer olive oil for its light flavor, but butter adds a rich taste. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium broth is a favorite of mine since it allows you to control the saltiness. Homemade broth is even better if you have time. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth.
Egg Noodles: They’re classic, but you could use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time, as different pastas may vary.
Vegetables: Adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers can boost the nutrients and color! If you don’t have fresh veggies, frozen ones work great too.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Tender Vegetables in My Soup?
The key to tender vegetables is to sauté them properly. Start by cooking the onions, carrots, and celery first. This gives them time to soften and release their flavors. Here’s how:
- Heat your oil or butter in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
- Next, add the garlic and cook for just a minute—this helps keep the garlic from burning.
This method creates a flavor base that makes your chicken noodle soup even more delicious!
Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup to Feel Better Fast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 ½ cups egg noodles or any short pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
- Optional: lemon juice or fresh herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Noodle Soup will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes total to cook. That makes it a perfect quick meal that’s comforting and satisfying when you’re not feeling your best!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they are nicely tender.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This step adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the soup!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaf (if you’re using it), along with the dried thyme and parsley. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 15 minutes to soften the vegetables and let the flavors blend together.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they are tender yet firm (al dente).
6. Stir in the Chicken:
Gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken and allow it to heat through for 2-3 minutes. This makes your soup hearty and filling!
7. Season to Taste:
Check the soup for seasoning and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Don’t forget to take out that bay leaf!
8. Add a Touch of Brightness:
If you’d like, finish off your soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor. This little touch can brighten up the entire dish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the hot soup into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth. It’s perfect for when you need a little boost to feel better fast!
This Chicken Noodle Soup is so nourishing and easy to digest. It’s guaranteed to soothe your tummy and warm your heart!
FAQ about Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or dice the chicken and add it in step 6. This also adds extra flavor, making your soup even more delicious!
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of great options available; just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute. You can also use water, but consider adding extra seasonings to enhance the flavor, such as more herbs or a dash of soy sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the noodles absorb too much broth, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!
