Introduction

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that warms the soul. With its savory broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, this dish is perfect for a cozy evening or when you’re under the weather. The simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and enjoyable for the whole family.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken – 1 whole chicken or 3-4 chicken breasts
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Carrots – 2 medium, sliced
Celery – 2 stalks, sliced
Onion – 1 large, diced
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Chicken broth – 8 cups
Egg noodles – 2 cups
Bay leaves – 2
Thyme – 1 teaspoon, dried
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley – for garnish, chopped

Prep Time

Preparation time for this homemade chicken noodle soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables and prepping the chicken for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The total time from start to finish is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe yields around 6 to 8 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers for lunch the next day. Enjoy the warm embrace of this delightful soup!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the required ingredients for the chicken noodle soup. This includes fresh vegetables, noodles, chicken, and broth.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Add boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs) to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Cook the chicken for a few minutes until it’s no longer pink.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Pour in chicken broth or stock to the pot, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add salt, pepper, and any desired herbs such as thyme or parsley for flavor. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through.

Step 7: Remove the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 8: Cook the Noodles

Add your choice of noodles to the pot. Follow the instructions on the noodle package for cooking time. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Combine Chicken and Soup

Once the noodles are cooked, return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir everything together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 10: Serve the Soup

Ladle the hot chicken noodle soup into bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.

Notes

Storage

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

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but consider adding the noodles only when serving, as they can become mushy upon freezing.

Substitutions

Feel free to substitute the chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quicker version, or swap out the vegetables based on your preference.

Spice Level

For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup before serving.

Cook techniques

Choosing the Right Chicken

Selecting the best chicken for your soup is crucial. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for richer flavor. Whole chickens add depth, while rotisserie chicken can save time.

Preparing the Broth

Start by simmering the chicken and aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery. This slow cooking process enhances the flavor, allowing the ingredients to infuse the broth.

Straining the Broth

Once cooked, strain the broth to remove solids, ensuring a smooth consistency. This step is key to achieving a clear, flavorful soup base.

Addition of Vegetables

Incorporate fresh vegetables during the final stages of cooking. This keeps them vibrant and prevents overcooking, maintaining their texture and nutrients.

Cooking Noodles

Cook your noodles separately to avoid them becoming mushy in the soup. Adding them directly into the broth allows for better control over their doneness.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Yes, store-bought chicken broth can be a convenient alternative, but homemade broth infuses better flavor.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it.

Can I add other types of noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different noodles such as egg noodles or whole wheat pasta, based on your preference.

How can I make the soup richer?

To enhance richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a bit of butter at the end of cooking.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with vegetables or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

This homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that warms the soul. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, it is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the delightful flavors and aromas as you cherish the homemade goodness.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Chicken Soup

Combine your chicken noodle soup with a variety of seasonal vegetables for a nutritious twist. Consider adding kale, broccoli, or zucchini to enhance the flavors and texture.

Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Add a bit of heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This spicy version will appeal to those who enjoy a little kick in their soup.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

For a richer, creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This variation brings a luxurious texture to the dish.

Lemon Herb Chicken Soup

Infuse your soup with fresh flavors by adding a splash of lemon juice and a handful of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley. This brightens the dish and adds refreshing notes.

Chicken and Rice Soup

Substitute noodles with rice for a comforting chicken and rice soup. This is a satisfying alternative that still retains all the flavors of the original recipe.