Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, with its rich broth, tender chicken, and slurp-worthy noodles. Just imagine the warm, fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This chicken noodle soup recipe will wrap you in a cozy hug on a chilly day or soothe your soul when you’re feeling under the weather.
Thinking back to my childhood, I remember my grandmother’s kitchen bustling with activity as she stirred her famous soup. The way the steam danced and swirled in the air was magical. It felt like love in a bowl, perfect for family gatherings or just a rainy afternoon. Buckle up your aprons; we’re about to take this culinary journey together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken noodle soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, you’ll feel like a gourmet chef
- Its golden broth and vibrant veggies make it visually appealing and comforting at the same time
- Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand
I still remember the first time I made this chicken noodle soup recipe for my friends—watching their eyes light up after the first spoonful was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on your crowd size.
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Fresh Carrots: Choose crisp carrots that add sweetness and color; no one wants sad-looking veggies in their soup.
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Celery Stalks: Fresh celery brings a crunchy texture and aromatic flavor that compliments the broth beautifully.
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Onion: Use yellow onions for their mild sweetness; they add depth and richness to the base of your soup.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves provide that unmistakable aroma and flavor; crushed or minced works best here.
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Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth makes all the difference; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
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Egg Noodles: These are perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth while adding a hearty texture.
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Dried Thyme: Thyme adds an earthy flavor; fresh thyme can be used if available for an extra punch.
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Bay Leaves: Adding bay leaves offers subtle notes that enhance the overall flavor profile—don’t forget to remove them later!
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Salt & Pepper: Season generously but taste as you go; every palate is different!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start with prepping your ingredients: Chop your carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the soup.
Sauté Your Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onion and sauté until translucent—about 5 minutes—and watch those aromas fill your kitchen!
Add Chicken & Vegetables: Stir in diced chicken breasts along with carrots and celery. Cook until chicken is lightly browned on all sides—this should take about 6-7 minutes.
Pour in Chicken Broth: Add enough chicken broth to cover everything by an inch. Toss in bay leaves and dried thyme then bring everything to a gentle boil.
Add Noodles: Once boiling, reduce heat back down to medium-low; stir in egg noodles and let them cook until tender—this should take about 8-10 minutes.
Season & Serve: Before serving, remove bay leaves. Taste your masterpiece and adjust salt and pepper as needed—trust me, this step is crucial! Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
With each spoonful of this delightful chicken noodle soup recipe, you’ll find yourself transported back to simpler times filled with warmth and laughter. Trust me when I say this bowl of happiness will not only fill bellies but also hearts!
You Must Know
- This chicken noodle soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a hug in a bowl
- It’s a versatile dish that warms your soul and satisfies your cravings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the onions and garlic to release their flavors, then add the chicken. Once it’s cooked, toss in the vegetables before adding broth and noodles for a harmonious blend.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add spinach instead of carrots. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist that suits your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding extra broth if necessary to maintain consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavor, use homemade broth instead of store-bought; it makes all the difference
- Ensure you cook noodles separately if planning to freeze leftovers to avoid mushiness later
- Fresh herbs added at the end provide bright flavor bursts!
Sharing my first attempt at this chicken noodle soup recipe brings back fond memories of my grandma’s kitchen where laughter and delicious aromas danced together, creating pure joy.
FAQ
How long does this chicken noodle soup recipe take to prepare?
This chicken noodle soup recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead; flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight!
What can I add for extra nutrition?
Consider adding kale or zucchini to boost nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Chicken noodle soup is the quintessential comfort food that warms the heart and soul. With a savory broth, tender chicken, and slurp-worthy egg noodles, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy hug in a bowl. Experience the nostalgic aroma that fills your kitchen and brings everyone together for a delightful meal. Let’s embark on this easy culinary adventure together!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh carrots, diced
- 2 cups celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Dice carrots, celery, onion, and mince garlic.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chicken & vegetables: Stir in diced chicken breasts along with carrots and celery. Cook until chicken is lightly browned on all sides (6-7 minutes).
- Pour in broth: Add chicken broth to cover everything by an inch. Toss in bay leaves and dried thyme; bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook noodles: Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in egg noodles and cook until tender (8-10 minutes).
- Season & serve: Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, ladle into bowls, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider adding leafy greens like spinach or kale. Swap out chicken for turkey or try different herbs like rosemary to customize flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.