Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, it's a classic dish that warms the heart.
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe has been passed down through generations. It's a family favorite that not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together. The combination of flavors and aromas will remind you of home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A warm and comforting bowl that soothes the soul
- Loaded with fresh ingredients and hearty noodles
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of homemade soup. Chicken Noodle Soup, in particular, has the power to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a day spent nursing a cold, this soup provides a soothing embrace with every spoonful. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty noodles creates a symphony of flavors that not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your soul.
Making soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that every bite is packed with nutrition. Unlike store-bought options that can be high in sodium and artificial flavors, this homemade version is brimming with wholesome goodness. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is enough to make anyone feel at home.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the greatest joys of making Chicken Noodle Soup is its versatility. While this recipe provides a classic foundation, it invites creativity. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or even kale. Each addition brings its own unique flavor and texture, allowing you to tailor the soup to your taste preferences or seasonal availability.
Moreover, if you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. For a heartier meal, you could even toss in some cooked beans or lentils. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to adapt and evolve, keeping it exciting every time you make it.
Storing and Reheating
Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for meal prep or making in large batches. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve as it sits, making it an excellent option for lunch the next day.
When reheating, you might find that the noodles have absorbed some of the broth. To remedy this, simply add a splash of water or additional chicken broth while warming it on the stove. This will help restore the soup's original consistency without losing any of the delicious flavor.
Ingredients
Gather all the fresh ingredients before you start cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to check your pantry for any additional seasoning you might want to add!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Chicken Noodle Soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add Garlic and Broth
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Combine Chicken and Seasonings
Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Cook the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Serve and Garnish
Once the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with some crusty bread!
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The ingredients in this recipe are rich in nutrients that can help boost your immune system, especially during cold and flu season. Chicken is a great source of protein, while vegetables like carrots and celery provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Additionally, homemade broth is known for its hydrating properties, making it an ideal choice for those feeling under the weather. The warmth of the soup can also help soothe sore throats and alleviate congestion, making it a go-to remedy for many.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your Chicken Noodle Soup experience, consider pairing it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad. A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the soup perfectly, adding a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty dish.
If you're in the mood for something extra, homemade biscuits or garlic bread can add a delightful touch. These pairings not only enhance your meal but also make it feel more complete and satisfying.
A Family Favorite
Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless classic that has been passed down through generations. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a family favorite, ideal for serving during gatherings or cozy family dinners. As you prepare this dish, you’ll likely find that it sparks conversations and creates lasting memories around the dinner table.
Encouraging kids to help in the kitchen while making this soup can also be a wonderful bonding experience. They can assist with washing vegetables, measuring ingredients, or even stirring the pot, making them feel involved and excited about what’s cooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, the noodles may become mushy when reheated, so you may want to cook the noodles separately.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add peas, corn, or green beans for more variety and nutrition.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, it's a classic dish that warms the heart.
Created by: Adeline Morris
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Once the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g