There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup when you need a meal that’s comforting, nourishing, and delicious. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a cozy dinner, or looking for a simple homemade recipe, this classic dish is always a winner. Made with tender chicken, soft noodles, and savory vegetables in a rich, aromatic broth, this soup warms both the body and soul.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to make the perfect Chicken Noodle Soup, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, serving suggestions, and helpful tips to customize your soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Timeless Comfort Food
This classic Chicken Noodle Soup brings back feelings of warmth, home, and comfort. It’s the ultimate meal for cold days or when you need a bit of extra care.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
3. Nutritious and Filling
Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken and vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s easy to store and reheat for quick, healthy meals.
5. Customizable
Add your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or use different types of noodles to suit your preferences.
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup
For the Soup Base
-
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
-
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for a burst of freshness
- Cracked black pepper for extra spice
For another comforting chicken dish, check out this easy chicken casserole for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, dried parsley, and bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes to develop the flavors.
3. Add the Chicken and Noodles
- Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot.
- Continue simmering for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
4. Season and Finish
- Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and cracked black pepper.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or buttery crackers for dipping.
For another easy, nourishing soup, try this creamy tomato gnocchi soup for a comforting twist.
Serving Suggestions
1. With Fresh Bread
Pair the soup with a warm loaf of crusty bread, garlic bread, or buttermilk biscuits for dipping.
2. Side Salad
Serve with a simple green salad or Caesar salad to round out the meal.
3. Crackers
Top with buttery crackers or saltines for an extra bit of crunch.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.
For more delicious comfort food, try this creamy chicken carbonara for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Recipe Variations
1. Add More Vegetables
Incorporate peas, green beans, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
2. Make It Creamy
Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy version of Chicken Noodle Soup.
3. Use Different Noodles
Try whole wheat noodles, rotini, or orzo for a twist on the classic recipe.
4. Spice It Up
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
5. Low-Carb Version
Replace the noodles with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- To Freeze: Allow the soup to cool completely. Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Tip: For best results, freeze the soup without the noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat until hot. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed.
For more freezer-friendly meal ideas, check out this hearty chicken casserole for another comforting option.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Use High-Quality Broth
A rich, flavorful broth is key to a great chicken noodle soup. If you have the time, making homemade chicken broth will elevate your soup. Otherwise, opt for a low-sodium store-bought broth for better control over seasoning. Adding a splash of chicken bouillon or stock concentrate can deepen the flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Noodles can easily turn mushy if left in the soup too long. For best results, cook the noodles until just al dente. If you plan to store leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual servings.
3. Add Fresh Herbs
Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill at the end of cooking gives the soup a burst of flavor and freshness. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and make it taste even more homemade.
4. Shred the Chicken Properly
For the best texture, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. This allows the chicken to absorb more broth and makes each spoonful satisfying.
5. Layer the Flavors
Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery before adding the broth helps develop a richer flavor base. Don’t skip this step, as it makes a significant difference in the overall taste.
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Boosts Immunity
Chicken noodle soup is packed with vitamins and minerals that support your immune system, making it an ideal meal when you’re feeling under the weather.
2. Hydrating and Soothing
The warm broth helps keep you hydrated and soothes a sore throat, while the steam can help relieve congestion.
3. Nutrient-Rich
- Protein: Chicken provides essential protein for muscle repair.
- Vitamins: Carrots and celery add vitamin A, C, and K.
- Carbs: Noodles provide the energy boost you need to keep going.
4. Easy to Digest
The light, savory broth is gentle on the stomach, making it perfect for those recovering from illness or needing a mild meal.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Ideas
1. Prepare the Broth Ahead
Make a big batch of the broth and freeze it in portions. When you’re ready to make soup, simply thaw the broth, add fresh vegetables, noodles, and chicken, and you have a quick meal.
2. Separate Components for Storage
If you’re meal prepping, store the broth, chicken, and noodles separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve to keep everything tasting fresh.
3. Freeze for Future Meals
Chicken noodle soup freezes well, but it’s best to freeze it without the noodles. Cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
4. Quick Reheat Options
Store the soup in microwave-safe containers for easy reheating at work or on the go. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of flavor.
For another freezer-friendly meal option, check out this hearty chicken and vegetable stir-fry for a quick and healthy dinner.
Fun Ways to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup
1. In a Mug
Serve the soup in a large mug for a cozy, handheld meal perfect for sipping by the fireplace or while watching a movie.
2. In a Bread Bowl
Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or French bread and ladle the soup inside. The bread soaks up the delicious broth for an extra-special treat.
3. With Toppings Bar
Create a toppings bar with options like:
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives)
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed crackers or croutons
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
4. Paired with a Sandwich
Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a turkey club for a satisfying and complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use rotini, fusilli, orzo, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Use gluten-free noodles or substitute with rice or quinoa. Ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
3. How Long Does Chicken Noodle Soup Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, chicken noodle soup will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
4. Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! Add raw chicken breasts or thighs to the pot when you add the broth. Simmer until fully cooked, then shred the chicken and return it to the soup.
5. How Do I Prevent the Noodles from Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy noodles, cook them separately and add them to the soup just before serving.
Final Thoughts: A Timeless Comfort Food
This Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate classic comfort food, offering warmth, nourishment, and a sense of home with every spoonful. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for everything from family dinners to sick days and meal prep.
Whether you’re following the classic recipe or adding your own twist with extra veggies and herbs, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. For more comforting meal ideas, explore this creamy chicken carbonara for a quick, satisfying dinner option.
Enjoy the cozy, soothing goodness of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup!