Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Madeline

Everyday Culinary Delights

Introduction

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that warms the heart and soul. It’s the perfect dish for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This homemade version is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wholesome meal for the entire family. Follow along to discover how to make this delicious soup from scratch, featuring tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant vegetables.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Carrots: 2 medium-sized, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Chicken broth: 8 cups, low-sodium
Egg noodles: 3 cups
Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
Parsley: 1/4 cup, fresh, chopped

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Slice the carrots, celery, and onion to uniform sizes for even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth

Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is completely submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Season the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat and add seasonings such as thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

After the chicken has cooked through, remove it from the pot and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Cook the Noodles

Bring the broth back to a boil, then add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, typically around 5-7 minutes, until al dente.

Step 7: Combine Everything

After the noodles are cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.

Step 9: Serve the Soup

Ladle the hot chicken noodle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Cooking Time

Ensure the chicken is cooked through completely. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Note 2: Noodle Type

You can use any type of noodles, but egg noodles are traditional. Adjust cooking time based on the noodle type used.

Note 3: Storage

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb broth, so you may need to add more liquid when reheating.

Note 4: Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze without the noodles. Cook the noodles fresh when you reheat the soup.

Note 5: Customizations

Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas or green beans. You can also substitute rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.

Cook techniques

Shredding Chicken

Shredding cooked chicken can be done easily using two forks or your hands. This technique helps to break down the meat into smaller, manageable pieces that can be dispersed evenly throughout the soup.

Sautéing Aromatics

Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the soup enriches the flavor base. Cook them until they are soft and slightly caramelized to enhance the soup’s overall taste profile.

Simmering Broth

Simmering the broth allows all the flavors to meld together. Ensure that the soup simmers gently to extract the maximum flavor from the ingredients without boiling vigorously.

Creamy Soup Addition

For a richer texture, cream or a dairy substitute can be added towards the end of the cooking process. This technique creates a velvety finish to the chicken noodle soup.

Adding Noodles

To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, add them towards the end of the cooking cycle. This technique ensures they remain al dente and retain their texture in the soup.

FAQ

How can I make chicken noodle soup gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional egg noodles and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor to the soup since it’s already cooked and seasoned.

What vegetables can I add to the soup?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?

Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup. However, it’s best to freeze it without the noodles, as they may become mushy upon reheating.

Conclusion

The homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and nourishment to any meal. With its savory broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, it’s ideal for cozy evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. This recipe can easily be customized to fit personal tastes, making it a versatile favorite in any kitchen.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Chicken Noodle Soup

Add a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots, peas, and spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.

Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha into the broth for a spicy kick that enhances the overall taste.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Transform your chicken noodle soup by adding tortilla strips, black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime for a Mexican-inspired twist.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Replace traditional noodles with orzo pasta and add fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup

Incorporate ginger, soy sauce, and bok choy for an Asian-inspired variation that is both flavorful and comforting.

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