Introduction
Homemade chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms the heart and soothes the soul. Perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting noodles in a rich, flavorful broth. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, you can create a delicious pot of chicken noodle soup right in your kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
Noodles: 8 ounces of egg noodles or any preferred pasta
Broth: 6 cups of chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
Carrots: 2 medium carrots, sliced
Celery: 2 stalks of celery, sliced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves
Thyme: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Parsley: 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 to 6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients, including chicken, vegetables, broth, and herbs.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, combine the chicken with plenty of water. Bring it to a simmer and cook until the chicken is cooked through, which usually takes about 25 minutes.
Step 3: Remove and Shred Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Broth and Season
Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you prefer, such as thyme or rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Add Noodles
Once boiling, add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions until they are tender.
Step 7: Combine and Heat Through
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir well to combine and allow everything to heat together for a few minutes.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.
Step 9: Serve
Ladle the chicken noodle soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Options
You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken for more flavor, or boneless chicken breasts for a lighter version.
Note 2: Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover chicken noodle soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
Note 4: Freezing
This soup freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add additional broth or water upon reheating.
Cook techniques
Roasting Chicken for Flavor
Using roasted chicken adds depth of flavor to the soup. A rotisserie chicken works well, as it already has a rich, cooked flavor.
Simmering for Broth Development
Allow the broth to simmer gently. This helps to extract flavors from the chicken, vegetables, and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful soup.
Chopping Vegetables Properly
Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster, while larger chunks will take longer.
Using Fresh Herbs
Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme and parsley at the end of cooking. This preserves their bright flavors and aromas.
Thickening the Soup with Noodles
Add noodles towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy. Cooking them just right ensures a pleasant texture.
Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the broth before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile of the soup.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover chicken can be used. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it towards the end of the cooking process.
What type of noodles work best in chicken noodle soup?
Egg noodles are commonly used, but you can use any pasta varieties that you prefer or have on hand.
How long can I store chicken noodle soup?
Chicken noodle soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal. Just be mindful of cooking the noodles separately if you plan to store it for a few days.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas based on your preference.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it is perfect for any occasion, especially during colder months. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also uplifts the spirit, making it a beloved classic in many households.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Noodle Soup
Swap out chicken for a medley of vegetables to create a vibrant and healthy vegetable noodle soup that is both filling and nourishing.
Chicken and Rice Soup
Incorporate rice into your chicken soup for a heartier meal. The addition of rice enhances the texture and adds to the overall flavor.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Add some heat by incorporating spices like red pepper flakes or sriracha, giving your soup a delightful kick that spices up the traditional recipe.
Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup
Brighten your soup with the zesty flavor of lemon juice and zest. It adds a refreshing twist that complements the chicken perfectly.
Asian-Style Chicken Noodle Soup
Use rice noodles and add ingredients like bok choy, ginger, and soy sauce to create a delicious Asian-inspired version of chicken noodle soup.