Introduction

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that warms your soul and nourishes your body. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and hearty noodles in a savory broth. It’s perfect for chilly days, serving as a remedy for colds, or simply as a nourishing meal for your family. This recipe provides a simple yet flavorful approach to preparing chicken noodle soup at home, bringing the taste of homemade goodness to your kitchen.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 2 cups, cooked and shredded
Egg noodles: 8 ounces
Carrots: 2, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced
Onion: 1, chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Chicken broth: 8 cups
Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves: 2
Salt: to taste
Black pepper: to taste
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley: for garnish, optional

Prep Time

Prep time for this chicken noodle soup is approximately 15 minutes. This allows enough time to gather ingredients, chop vegetables, and prepare your workspace for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 30 minutes, making the total time for this recipe 45 minutes. This recipe yields about 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Enjoy this comforting soup and savor each delicious bowl!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water. Then, place it in a large pot and add enough water to cover the chicken. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Simmer the Chicken

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the chicken to simmer for about 20-30 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 3: Remove and Shred the Chicken

Using tongs, carefully take the chicken out of the pot and place it on a cutting board. After it cools down a little, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Add minced garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well and let it cook for an additional minute to release the garlic’s aroma.

Step 6: Add Broth and Shredded Chicken

Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture back to a boil. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken back into the pot.

Step 7: Cook the Noodles

Add egg noodles to the boiling soup. Follow the package instructions and cook until the noodles are tender, usually about 6-8 minutes.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves. If desired, stir in some fresh parsley for added flavor and garnish.

Notes

Storage Information

Leftover chicken noodle soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or corn for more nutrition. You can also replace egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot, paired with crusty bread or a side salad for a wholesome meal.

Cook techniques

How to Sauté Aromatics

Sautéing aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery in oil or butter adds depth of flavor to the soup. Be sure to cook them just until they are slightly softened and fragrant.

Poaching Chicken

Poaching chicken means cooking it gently in water or broth. This technique keeps the chicken tender and juicy, ideal for adding to your soup.

Building Flavor with Broth

Using homemade or store-bought broth enhances the soup’s flavor. Simmering the soup allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich taste.

Addition of Noodles

Cooking noodles separately and adding them to the soup ensures they maintain their texture. This prevents them from becoming mushy while the soup simmers.

Using Fresh Herbs

Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end of cooking brightens up the soup. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and freshness that dried herbs can’t replicate.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.

What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can substitute other types of noodles like rotini, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta according to your preference.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make the soup vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long can I store leftover chicken noodle soup?

Leftover chicken noodle soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?

Yes, chicken noodle soup can be frozen. However, it’s best to freeze without the noodles to maintain their texture; add fresh noodles after thawing.

Conclusion

This chicken noodle soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, soft noodles, and vibrant vegetables in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this comforting recipe can easily become a beloved staple in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal choice for both novices and experienced cooks alike.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Chicken Noodle Soup

Add an assortment of your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, and green beans to enhance the nutritional value and flavor.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Transform your soup into a creamy delight by stirring in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk for rich, velvety texture.

Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

For those who enjoy a kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce to spice things up.

Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup

Brighten the flavors by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest before serving for a refreshing twist.

Herb-Infused Chicken Noodle Soup

Try adding fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to elevate the taste and aroma of your soup.

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Make it easy by using a slow cooker. Just toss in the ingredients and let it simmer for a few hours for maximum flavor.

Asian-Inspired Chicken Noodle Soup

Incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian twist, and use ramen noodles instead of traditional egg noodles.