Chicken noodle soup is a comforting, nourishing dish beloved for its warming qualities and its role in soothing colds or simply warming up on chilly days. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a savory broth, this soup is both wholesome and delicious. Perfect for any season, it’s adaptable with optional greens, spices, and add-ins. Let’s dive into making this classic, easy-to-make chicken noodle soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Olive oil or unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves: 3, minced
• Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and sliced
• Celery stalks: 2, chopped
• Chicken broth or stock: 8 cups
• Shredded cooked chicken: 2 cups (rotisserie or homemade)
• Egg noodles: 2 cups
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
• Bay leaf: 1
• Salt and pepper: To taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• Spinach or kale: 1 cup, chopped
• Peas or corn: 1 cup
• Turmeric: ½ teaspoon, for added color and health benefits

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or dill: Chopped
• Lemon juice: A squeeze for brightness

Steps to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion, stirring occasionally until it softens, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

1. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot, stirring well.
2. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften but are not mushy.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the chicken broth or stock, and add the dried thyme, dried parsley, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Noodles

1. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.
2. Bring the soup back to a simmer, then add the egg noodles. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

1. If you’re including spinach, kale, peas, corn, or turmeric, add them to the pot in the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Stir until the greens are wilted and the peas or corn are warmed through.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Vitamin A: 100% DV
• Vitamin C: 30% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to add the noodles only when you’re ready to serve to prevent them from getting too soft.

2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well, though you might want to leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

4. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. Fresh thyme or parsley adds an extra burst of flavor. If using fresh, double the quantity as they are less concentrated than dried herbs.

5. What can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can use other pasta shapes, rice, or even quinoa. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

• Choose the Right Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is convenient, but homemade shredded chicken works well too. Chicken thighs are especially flavorful.
• Add Noodles Last: To avoid soggy noodles, add them toward the end of the cooking process or cook them separately and add to individual bowls.
• Flavor Boosters: A squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of chili flakes, or a dash of soy sauce can enhance the soup’s flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Finish the soup with fresh parsley or dill for brightness and a hint of herbal freshness.
• For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy version of chicken noodle soup.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the soup cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving an inch of headspace. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth if the soup has thickened. For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food, beloved for its simplicity, rich flavor, and health benefits. This recipe provides a base with plenty of room for customization, from adding vegetables to tweaking the seasonings. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day, recover from a cold, or simply enjoy a nutritious meal, this soup has you covered. Serve with fresh bread or crackers and enjoy a satisfying, homemade bowl of comfort.