Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic

There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, especially when it’s made from scratch with fresh ingredients. This recipe is all about creating the perfect balance of rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked vegetables. Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a wholesome meal, chicken noodle soup is the go-to dish that always hits the spot.

The key to an amazing homemade chicken noodle soup lies in the quality of your ingredients. A good chicken stock or broth serves as the flavorful base of the soup, while a combination of butter, carrots, celery, and herbs adds depth and richness. The addition of noodles provides that satisfying texture that completes the dish. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you’ll have a bowl of soup that’s far superior to any canned version.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this comforting soup from scratch. From the aromatic vegetables to the tender chicken, you’ll learn how to build a nourishing soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

this RECIPE

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Homemade Goodness

Using fresh ingredients and homemade chicken stock elevates the flavor of this soup, giving it a depth and richness that canned soups simply can’t match.

2. Simple and Wholesome

The recipe is straightforward with easy-to-find ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or as a comforting dish for a sick day.

3. Customizable

You can adjust the amount of vegetables, noodles, or seasoning to fit your taste preferences. Feel free to add extra herbs or even swap in different vegetables like peas or corn.

4. Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with lean protein from chicken, fiber from vegetables, and vitamins and minerals, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

5. Freezer-Friendly

Make a big batch and freeze some for later! This soup stores well and tastes just as good when reheated.

Ingredients

• Chicken stock or broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
• Unsalted butter
• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Garlic
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Egg noodles
• Fresh thyme or dried thyme
• Bay leaves
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add peas, corn, or parsnips for additional texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles to make this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Herb Variations: If you prefer, swap thyme for rosemary or add a sprig of fresh dill for a different flavor profile.
• Rich Broth: For a richer soup, you can replace part of the chicken stock with cream or coconut milk for a creamy chicken noodle soup version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Add minced garlic, fresh thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Add Chicken Stock

Pour in the chicken stock or broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Chicken

Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.

Step 5: Add Noodles

Once the chicken is shredded and returned to the pot, add the egg noodles and cook until they are tender, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Homemade Stock: If you have time, homemade chicken stock makes a huge difference in flavor. If using store-bought stock, opt for low-sodium to control the salt level.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, be sure to add them towards the end of cooking and monitor their doneness.
• Shred the Chicken: For a more tender and flavorful chicken, use a fork to shred it into bite-sized pieces once it’s cooked through.
• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered to reduce the broth and concentrate the flavors.

How to Serve

Chicken noodle soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm slice of sourdough or baguette for dipping.
• Salad: A light, refreshing side salad with lemon dressing complements the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese: For a classic pairing, enjoy the soup with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for an extra comforting meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup can also be stored in smaller containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Freezing

Chicken noodle soup freezes well. After cooling, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and can be used in place of raw chicken. Just shred the meat and add it to the soup once the broth is ready.

2. Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Frozen vegetables can be used, but fresh vegetables offer better texture and flavor. If using frozen, add them towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add the sautéed vegetables, broth, chicken, and seasonings to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and are great for this recipe. You can use either boneless, skinless thighs or bone-in thighs.

7. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the butter and use olive oil instead. You can also use a dairy-free broth or coconut milk for added creaminess.

8. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and color.

10. What’s the best way to store leftover soup?

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. With a flavorful, rich broth and tender chicken, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make soup will warm you up from the inside out.

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