Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Comfort
This is the best homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe ever! There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. This easy chicken noodle soup is not only flavorful and hearty but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What I love most about this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is how simple it is to make. In under an hour, you can create a delicious meal that fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or enjoying it as the main course, this soup is versatile enough for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick and easy: This soup cooks in one pot and can be ready in about 60 minutes.
– Healthy and nourishing: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a meal that warms both body and soul.
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand.
– Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting classic!
– Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh ingredients is key to making this soup truly delicious. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
For the Soup Base
– 2 Tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup onion (diced)
– 1 cup carrots (peeled & diced)
– 1 cup celery (finely diced)
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
For the Broth
– 2 quarts chicken broth (8 cups)
– 1 Tablespoon chicken base (better than bouillon recommended)
For the Chicken
– 2 Pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 bay leaves
Seasoning
– ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley
For the Noodles
– 4 cups egg noodles
Variations
One of the best parts about cooking is having the freedom to mix things up! Here are some fun variations you can try:
– Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of raw chicken breasts for an even quicker option.
– Add more veggies: Toss in leafy greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
– Change up the noodles: Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta based on your dietary needs.
– Spice it up: If you enjoy some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty kick.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large stockpot, combine olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until onions are translucent, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Sautéing these vegetables first helps to develop their flavors and creates a delicious base for your soup.
Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken Base
Add chicken broth and better than bouillon to the stockpot and whisk together until well combined. This step enriches your soup with deep flavor right from the start!
Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Herbs
Next, add chicken breasts, parsley, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir everything together gently so that all ingredients are evenly distributed. The herbs will infuse their lovely aroma into both the broth and chicken while it cooks.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. It’s important at this stage to get everything bubbling nicely; this ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer and let it cook for about 45 minutes or until chicken is fork-tender. Simmering allows time for flavors to develop fully while keeping your chicken juicy and tender.
Step 6: Remove Bay Leaves and Thyme Sprigs
After simmering, remove and discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs from your pot. These herbs have done their job imparting flavor but aren’t pleasant bites!
Step 7: Shred Chicken
Take out the cooked chicken breasts from the pot. Shred them using two forks—this makes them easier to distribute throughout your soup—and return them back into the pot. Shredded chicken ensures that every spoonful has plenty of meaty goodness.
Step 8: Cook the Noodles
Bring your mixture back to a boil once more before adding in those egg noodles! Boil them for about ten minutes or until they’re perfectly cooked. Noodles absorb broth flavors wonderfully while adding heartiness to your dish.
Step 9: Serve Warm
Once cooked through, ladle your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls while it’s still warm. Enjoy every spoonful of comfort that comes with this classic dish!
And there you have it—a wholesome homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that’s sure to bring warmth into any moment!
Pro Tips for Making Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Making homemade chicken noodle soup is an enjoyable experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some handy suggestions to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors of your soup. Whenever possible, opt for organic produce for the best taste.
– Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the chicken to simmer for a full 45 minutes helps to develop rich flavors and tender chicken. Patience is key!
– Customize your noodles: While egg noodles are classic, feel free to substitute them with whole wheat or gluten-free options based on dietary preferences.
– Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure your soup is perfectly seasoned. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
– Add veggies: Consider adding peas, corn, or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Serving homemade chicken noodle soup is all about presentation and creating a cozy atmosphere. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish:
Garnishes
– Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds both color and a burst of flavor.
– Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the soup and enhances its freshness.
Side Dishes
– Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the broth.
– Simple salad: A light garden salad pairs beautifully with this hearty soup.
– Grilled cheese sandwiches: The classic combination of grilled cheese and soup makes for a comforting meal.
– Crackers: Offer a side of crunchy crackers for those who enjoy a bit of crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping this homemade chicken noodle soup not only saves time but also ensures you have delicious meals ready when you need them. Here’s how to store it properly:
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
– Let the soup cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
– Label each container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing noodles separately as they may become mushy upon reheating.
Reheating
– Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– Warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making homemade chicken noodle soup that might help you out:
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply shred it and add it towards the end of cooking.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment! Vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers work wonderfully in this recipe.
How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients (except noodles) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts
Homemade chicken noodle soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With its soothing flavors and heartwarming aroma, it’s perfect for any day of the week. I encourage you to try this recipe; you’ll find that nothing beats the comfort of homemade goodness! Enjoy every spoonful!
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large stockpot, combine olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until onions are translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and chicken base to the stockpot and whisk together until well combined.
- Add chicken breasts, parsley, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, salt, and pepper into the pot. Stir gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer and let it cook for about 45 minutes or until chicken is fork-tender.
- Remove and discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs from your pot.
- Take out the cooked chicken breasts from the pot, shred them using two forks, and return them back into the pot.
- Bring your mixture back to a boil before adding in the egg noodles. Boil for about ten minutes or until cooked.
- Ladle your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls while it's still warm.
