There's something truly magical about the first sip of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup that instantly transports me back to my grandmother's kitchen, where the warm aroma of savory broth and tender chicken filled the air. This classic comfort food is not only a hearty meal, but it's also a go-to remedy for chilly days or when you need a little extra love in a bowl. With a quick prep time and simple ingredients, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or those moments when you crave something nourishing and familiar. Imagine gathering around the table, sharing stories while savoring each delightful spoonful. Are you ready to create a bowl of warmth that will leave your heart and soul feeling satisfied? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why is Chicken Noodle Soup So Comforting?
Nostalgic warmth: The aroma of simmering broth fills your home, evoking cherished memories of family gatherings.
Quick prep time: With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up this cozy dish in under an hour.
Hearty satisfaction: Packed with protein from chicken and wholesome noodles, it’s a filling meal that comforts the soul.
Versatile and customizable: Feel free to add seasonal veggies or spice it up with a dash of cayenne, making it your own.
Perfect for all occasions: Whether it's a weekday dinner or a remedy for the sniffles, this soup fits every moment beautifully. Enjoy it alongside a slice of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal experience!
Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts – The primary protein source; rotisserie chicken offers a convenient substitute.
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Provides a flavorful base; vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian twist.
- 1 small onion, diced – Builds a delightful flavor foundation; shallots can provide a milder taste.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and richness to the dish; garlic powder can be used if you’re in a hurry (1 tsp).
For the Vegetables
- 2 large carrots, sliced – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; frozen carrots are a handy alternative.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced – Brings crunch and refreshing flavor; feel free to skip it if celery isn’t your thing.
For the Noodles
- 2 cups egg noodles – Contributes heartiness and texture; you can swap in gluten-free pasta as needed.
For Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Perfect for sautéing your vegetables; butter can add delicious richness instead.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Infuses the soup with its earthy aroma; Italian seasoning can be a good substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing overall flavors; adjust according to your palate.
For Garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – A sprinkle of freshness and color on top; dried parsley can be a last-minute alternative.
Creating a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup has never been easier! Gather these fresh ingredients, and let the warmth of this classic dish fill your home.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery, then sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the enticing aroma to fill your kitchen as you start this cozy Chicken Noodle Soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Thyme
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the softened vegetables. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant and golden, stirring to ensure even cooking. This step enhances the flavors in your Chicken Noodle Soup, setting a rich base for the delicious broth that’s to come.
Step 3: Incorporate the Broth and Chicken
Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Carefully add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Let the soup come back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then return it to the pot. Stir the shredded chicken into the simmering Chicken Noodle Soup, which should now be bubbling enticingly, further integrating the flavors of the soup.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add 2 cups of egg noodles to the pot, stirring them into the savory broth. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Keep an eye on the pot to avoid overcooking the noodles, which are key to achieving that classic comfort in your Chicken Noodle Soup.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Once the noodles are just right, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness right before serving. Now your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is ready to be ladled into bowls, offering warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
What to Serve with Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Enhance your comforting bowl of soup with delightful sides that complement its warmth and heartiness.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this fresh loaf gives a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soup's velvety broth.
- Simple Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, these add flavor and an indulgent twist that's irresistible alongside your homemade soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender yet crisp, these greens add a nutritious touch and vibrant color, enhancing your meal visually and flavorfully.
- Savory Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, biscuits are excellent for soaking up the flavorful broth, turning each bite into a comforting delight.
- Apple Crisp: Satisfy your sweet tooth by finishing your meal with a warm apple crisp, creating a perfect blend of comfort food moments.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the entire soup base up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its delightful flavors. To prep ahead, simply sauté the vegetables and simmer them with the chicken and broth, then cool it down before refrigerating. The noodles can be cooked separately and added just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy. When you're ready to enjoy your comforting Chicken Noodle Soup, reheat the soup gently on the stove, adding additional broth if needed for the perfect consistency. This way, you'll have a cozy, heartwarming meal ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preventing a mushy texture from the noodles.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to reheat on busy days!
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed to regain its cozy texture.
Serve Fresh: For optimal flavor and texture, consume the soup within a few days. Over time, noodles may absorb broth, so adjust accordingly when reheating.
Expert Tips for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Noodle Perfection: Check doneness at 8 minutes for al dente noodles. Overcooked noodles can turn mushy, ruining your Chicken Noodle Soup.
- Enhance Flavor: Always season with salt and pepper at the end. This ensures the flavors shine without being muted during cooking.
- Vegetable Flexibility: If you dislike celery, no worries! Feel free to substitute or leave it out entirely; this soup is delicious with or without.
- Storage Savvy: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Note that noodles absorb broth over time, so you may want to add extra broth when reheating.
- Aromatic Boost: For extra depth, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering. Just remember to remove it before serving!
Chicken Noodle Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this comforting classic to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful soup.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian spin.
- Additional Veggies: Add frozen peas or corn for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
- Gluten-Free Noodles: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta for a safe alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
- Spicy Kick: For heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes—just the right amount will elevate your soup's flavor!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a different aromatic profile. They bring their unique warmth to this dish.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a luxurious, creamy texture that enhances the soup's heartiness.
- Asian Influence: Add soy sauce and switch egg noodles for rice noodles for an Asian-inspired twist, reminiscent of savory Chicken Teriyaki Noodles.
Whether you explore these substitutes or enhance with flavorful additions, your Chicken Noodle Soup can easily adapt to your preferences while still delivering that cherished comfort. If you’re looking for more homestyle recipes, check out my Chicken Adobo Again for another heartwarming dish!
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts, as they cook quickly and allow for easy shredding. Alternatively, you can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut without compromising on taste. If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs add a richer flavor but may require slightly longer cooking times.
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken noodle soup?
Very! After enjoying your homemade chicken noodle soup, let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the noodles may absorb some broth, so consider adding a splash of broth when reheating to revive the soup’s perfect consistency.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Of course! Freezing your chicken noodle soup is a fantastic way to have a comforting meal on hand during those busy days. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth as needed.
What should I do if my soup is too salty?
If your soup is too salty, don't worry! You can balance the flavors by adding more broth or water to dilute the saltiness. If you're using broth that is high in sodium next time, consider reducing the amount of added salt initially or using low-sodium broth. Adding a few slices of raw potato can absorb some saltiness; simmer it for about 10 minutes, then remove the potato before serving.
Are there any allergy considerations with chicken noodle soup?
Absolutely! This homemade chicken noodle soup generally contains common allergens like chicken and gluten from the egg noodles. For those with gluten sensitivities, feel free to substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. If you're serving it to kids or pets, ensure that you avoid any ingredients like onion or garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. Always check labels for any pre-made products to avoid hidden allergens!
Cozy Chicken Noodle Soup for Heartfelt Moments at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery, then sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the softened vegetables. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
- Pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Carefully add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Let the soup come back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then return it to the pot.
- Add 2 cups of egg noodles to the pot, stirring them into the savory broth. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).
- Once the noodles are just right, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley before serving.
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