Introduction
Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, a classic dish known for its soothing qualities and nourishing flavors. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, flavorful broth, and soft egg noodles, it’s a go-to meal for chilly days, sick days, or anytime you crave something warm and wholesome. Homemade chicken noodle soup is simple to make and far superior to anything from a can.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
½ tsp dried parsley (or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
6 oz egg noodles (about 3 cups)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another minute.
Add broth and seasonings: Pour in chicken broth. Add bay leaves, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
Add chicken and noodles: Stir in shredded chicken and egg noodles. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
Finish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves. Add a splash of lemon juice if desired.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Description
This Chicken Noodle Soup is warm, comforting, and filled with hearty goodness. The tender chicken and vegetables in a flavorful broth make it nourishing, while the egg noodles add the perfect bite. It’s a classic recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl — cozy, filling, and timeless.
Tips and Variations
Shortcut option: Use rotisserie chicken and pre-chopped vegetables for quick prep.
Make it creamy: Add ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk for a richer soup.
Extra veggies: Add peas, corn, or spinach for more nutrition.
Herbal twist: Add rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-free option: Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Make-ahead tip: Cook soup without noodles if storing for later — add noodles just before serving so they don’t get mushy.
Correction
Some recipes boil noodles too long in the broth, causing them to absorb too much liquid and become mushy. Instead, cook noodles just until tender and serve immediately, or cook separately and add them to bowls before ladling in the soup.
Enjoy
Serve Chicken Noodle Soup with warm bread, biscuits, or crackers for a hearty, comforting meal. Whether you’re under the weather or simply in need of cozy comfort, this soup is sure to satisfy.