This warm and comforting Chicken Rice Noodle Soup is perfect for a chilly day. With tender chicken pieces, soft rice noodles, and flavorful broth, it’s like a big hug in a bowl!
I always enjoy slurping up those noodles! They soak up all that delicious broth, making each bite so tasty. Plus, it’s super easy to make—a win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Choose a good quality chicken broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth is amazing, but store-bought works too. For a lighter option, low-sodium broth is a great choice!
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor. You can also use leftover cooked chicken or poach fresh chicken breasts in the broth.
Rice Noodles: Thin vermicelli or rice sticks are perfect for this soup. If you need a gluten-free option, these noodles are naturally gluten-free. You can substitute with egg noodles if preferred, but they will change the flavor a bit.
Vegetables: Carrots add sweetness and color. Feel free to add any other veggies you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or bok choy for more variety and nutrients!
Herbs: Fresh cilantro for garnish adds a burst of flavor. If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley or green onions work just as well!
How Do I Make Sure My Noodles Don’t Stick Together?
Cooking rice noodles can sometimes be tricky, as they can clump up if not handled properly. Here’s how to keep them nice and separate:
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, typically just a few minutes in boiling water.
- Immediately drain and rinse the noodles under cold water. This helps to stop them from cooking further and prevents sticking.
- Drizzle a tiny bit of oil on them if you want extra assurance against sticking.
- Combine the noodles with the soup just before serving to keep the texture nice and fresh!
How to Make Chicken Rice Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup rice noodles (thin vermicelli or rice sticks)
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup green peas
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Rice Noodle Soup takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and comforting meal that you can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and celery, stirring often. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until everything is softened and fragrant. This is the base of your soup and will add lots of flavor!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the carrots to start getting tender. This will add a lovely sweetness to your soup!
3. Create the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will cook the carrots until they are tender and let the flavors develop.
4. Incorporate Chicken and Peas:
Stir in the shredded chicken and green peas into the pot. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to heat through. This makes sure your chicken is warm and doesn’t dry out.
5. Prepare the Noodles:
While your soup simmers, cook the rice noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Remember to drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent them from sticking together!
6. Final Touches:
Give the soup a taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your liking for the perfect flavor!
7. Assemble and Serve:
In serving bowls, divide the drained rice noodles. Ladle the hot chicken soup filled with veggies over the noodles.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken Rice Noodle Soup!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe. Just shred the meat and add it to the soup for a quick and delicious option.
What Can I Use Instead of Rice Noodles?
If you don’t have rice noodles, you can substitute them with egg noodles or even soba noodles. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure they’re cooked properly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the noodles may soak up some broth, so you might want to keep the noodles separate when storing.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth, omitting the chicken, and adding more vegetables or tofu for protein. It’s still delicious and comforting!
