Chicken noodle soup is a warm and cozy dish that brings comfort on chilly days. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and tasty veggies, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
I love making this soup when I’m feeling under the weather. It’s quick to whip up, and the smell fills the house like a warm embrace from grandma. Plus, who doesn’t love noodles? 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil or butter: Both are great for sautéing. If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil is my go-to. Use butter for a richer flavor, especially if you’re feeling nostalgic!
Vegetables (Onion, Carrots, Celery): These make a classic mirepoix. However, you can swap in other veggies like bell peppers or peas if you want variety. If you’re short on fresh, frozen veggies work in a pinch!
Chicken broth: Homemade broth is the best if you have time, but low-sodium store-bought is just fine! For a lighter version, vegetable broth will also work well. Just keep the seasoning balanced.
Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient and adds great flavor. If you want, you can use leftovers from a previous meal. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu.
Egg noodles: These are traditional, but feel free to use whole wheat pasta or any other type of noodle you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Noodle Soup Is Flavorful?
Flavor is key in chicken noodle soup, and there are a few simple ways to enhance it. Start by properly sautéing your veggies; this builds a flavor foundation. Don’t rush this step!
- Cook your onions until they’re soft and slightly golden. This brings out their natural sweetness.
- Use fresh garlic to add depth — it only needs a minute for the flavors to bloom.
- Don’t skip on seasoning! Taste often and adjust with salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Add your herbs—thyme and parsley are favorites. Fresh herbs can really elevate the dish when added at the end.
With these tips, you’ll have a scrumptious and heartwarming soup every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie or boiled chicken breasts)
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide egg pasta noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (reserve some fresh for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for slight heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken noodle soup takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you can have a warm, comforting soup ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. This step adds flavor and richness to your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Just be careful not to burn the garlic; we want a nice aroma, not burnt bits!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where all the magic happens, as the flavors start to meld together!
4. Season It Up!
Stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add that pinch of crushed red pepper flakes here for a little kick if you like it spicy!
5. Noodle Time!
Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions—typically 7-8 minutes—until they are just tender. Watch them closely; you want them perfectly cooked without becoming mushy!
6. Add the Chicken:
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through and cozy.
7. Final Taste Test:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. This is your chance to make it just right for your taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy this comforting chicken noodle soup with your loved ones!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with any pasta you prefer, such as whole wheat noodles or gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Soup Heartier?
If you want to add more substance, consider throwing in some chopped potatoes or adding beans like cannellini or chickpeas. They will cook nicely in the broth and make the soup even more filling!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, leftovers freeze well! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It should keep in the freezer for about 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until hot. Enjoy your comforting soup again!
