This Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and flavorful herbs. It’s perfect for cozy nights or sick days!
There’s nothing like a bowl of this soup to make you feel better! I love how easy it is to make—I just toss everything in, let it simmer, and enjoy the delicious smell wafting through the house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing veggies. If you need a substitute, avocado oil also works well, providing a nice flavor without overpowering the dish.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s easy and flavorful. You can also use leftover chicken or even turkey; both will work fine. If you’re vegetarian, you could use chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Pasta: I like rotini because it holds the broth and flavors well. However, you can replace it with any small pasta like ditalini, mini shells, or even rice if you prefer a gluten-free option.
Herbs: Dried herbs give good flavor, but fresh herbs like thyme and parsley are fresher and aromatic. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use double the amount!
How Do I Make Sure My Onions Are Perfectly Softened?
Getting those onions just right is key for a good base! Here’s how to soften them perfectly:
- Heat the olive oil and add the diced onions to a medium pot over medium heat.
- Stir them occasionally for 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent, not browned. If they start to brown, lower the heat.
- Patience is key! The gentler you are with the heat, the sweeter the flavor will be.
Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 1/2 cups rotini pasta (or any small pasta)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re translucent. This sets a lovely base for your soup. Next, stir in the minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until the veggies start to soften. It’s okay if the onions start to become aromatic—this is a good sign!
2. Add the Broth:
Now it’s time to add some liquid! Pour in the chicken broth and crank the heat up to bring the mixture to a boil. This will create a warm and bubbling soup that smells incredible.
3. Season and Simmer:
Once it’s boiling, add the dried thyme, dill, and parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Now, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Add Chicken and Pasta:
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and pasta of choice. Let it continue to cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is nice and tender. This is the part where your kitchen smells like a cozy restaurant!
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, take a moment to taste your soup and adjust any seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if you think it needs a little extra love.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. If you have fresh parsley, sprinkle some on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty and warming Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup!
This savory soup combines tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a rich broth, making it the perfect comforting meal for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight, or you can thaw it quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, cook it thoroughly before shredding for the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the soup a day ahead. Just cook it without the pasta, store it in the fridge, and add the pasta when you’re ready to serve. It will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to leave out the pasta if you plan to freeze it, as it can become mushy upon reheating.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Yes! If you prefer a different pasta, you can use any small shape like elbow macaroni or ditalini. For a gluten-free option, try using rice or gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose!
