This classic chicken noodle soup is warm and comforting. It’s filled with tender chicken, soft noodles, and fresh veggies, making it perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! I toss everything in one pot and let it simmer, filling the house with a yummy smell. A bowl of this soup feels like a hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Low sodium is better to control saltiness. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version. Homemade broth adds extra flavor and love!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. You can use turkey for a twist or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles are traditional. If you need a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Adjust cooking time as necessary!
Carrots & Celery: Fresh produce adds great flavor. Feel free to swap in other veggies like peas or green beans. Use whatever you have on hand!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chicken Noodle Soup?
Building flavor in your soup is key! Start by sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil or butter. This step brings out their sweetness and depth. Here’s how:
- Heat your pot over medium heat and add your oil or butter.
- Once hot, toss in the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften.
- Add the minced garlic last to avoid burning it, then combine with the broth to keep all those flavors intact!
Let’s not forget seasoning! Taste as you go and always adjust with salt and pepper to suit your preferences. Enjoy every comforting bowl!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups wide egg noodles
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this delicious chicken noodle soup ready in about 40 minutes!
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 for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. This will help create a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Bring in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and toss in the bay leaf if you’re using it. Bring the mixture to a boil. This will get everything nice and hot!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the dried thyme and parsley. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the carrots and celery are tender.
5. Add Chicken and Noodles:
Now, add the shredded cooked chicken and the wide egg noodles. Cook for another 7-9 minutes until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
6. Season and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and season it with salt and black pepper as desired. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into warm bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot and enjoy your comforting, homemade chicken noodle soup. It’s a hug in a bowl! 😊
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.
What if I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since different types of pasta may cook at different rates.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes! Chicken noodle soup freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove!
How Can I Make This Soup Healthier?
For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat noodles, add more veggies like spinach or kale, and use low-sodium broth. You can also reduce or omit the butter to cut down on fat!
