This warm chicken noodle soup is like a big hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, soft noodles, and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re under the weather.
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Who knew comfort food could be so simple? My secret? A sprinkle of love (and maybe some extra pepper)! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Great for sautéing veggies. You could substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even butter for a richer flavor. I find olive oil gives a nice subtle taste.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth. If you’re not a fan, you could use shallots or even green onions for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used instead. Just adjust to taste.
Carrots and Celery: Essential for that classic soup flavor. Feel free to swap with bell peppers or add more veggies like peas or green beans.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works too. Low-sodium broth can be good for flavor control. In a pinch, water with spices can substitute.
Cooked Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for ease. If you have leftover turkey, that works great too! Canned chicken is also an option in a hurry.
Egg Noodles: Traditional choice, but feel free to use any pasta or whole grains. If gluten-free, there are many options available now, like rice noodles or quinoa pasta.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chicken Noodle Soup?
The key to flavorful chicken noodle soup starts with the aromatics: onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these first to build the base flavor before adding liquid.
- Heat olive oil in a pot, then add chopped onion. Cook until soft.
- Add garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until they soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Pour in the broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. This enhances flavor!
Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning! Taste as you go and add salt and pepper gradually to achieve your desired taste. A final sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances presentation and flavor.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Noodle Soup requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 40 minutes. A perfect quick meal that will warm your heart!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, introduce the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook this mixture for another 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and their delightful aromas fill your kitchen.
2. Add Chicken Broth:
Next, pour in the 8 cups of chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. This is where the flavors start to come together, making your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Incorporate the Chicken and Seasonings:
Once boiling, stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Now, it’s time to add the egg noodles to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package instructions until they are tender, which usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Stir gently so the noodles don’t clump together.
5. Final Adjustments:
After the noodles are cooked, take a moment to taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper as you desire. This step is essential in making sure everything tastes just right!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chicken Noodle Soup is now ready to be served! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing each with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. For a complete meal, pair it with slices of toasted bread. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it first for even cooking. You can thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in cold water. If you prefer, you can also cook the chicken directly in the soup, just be aware that it may take longer to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chicken noodle soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the noodles from getting too mushy, it’s best to store the noodles separately if possible. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to rejuvenate.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just follow the recipe up until adding the noodles, store in the refrigerator, and then add the noodles just before serving to ensure they don’t become overcooked.
What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?
You can add or substitute with a variety of vegetables! Peas, corn, green beans, or even spinach work wonderfully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you add to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
