Chicken Noodle Soup

This Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little extra warmth. With tender shredded chicken, hearty noodles, and a medley of vibrant vegetables simmered in delicious broth, this soup brings joy to any table. It’s not just tasty; it’s also versatile, suitable for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead. Each bowl is filled with nourishing flavors that are sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This chicken noodle soup comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup bursts with flavor in every spoonful.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your soup by adding extra veggies or using different types of noodles based on your preference.
• Healthy Comfort Food: A wholesome option that combines lean protein and nutritious vegetables without sacrificing taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious chicken noodle soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly; it retains heat well and allows for slow simmering.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precision when chopping vegetables, making preparation quick and safe.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving soup into bowls without spilling.

Ingredients

This flavorful and cozy chicken noodle soup is packed with tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, crisp celery, onions, and carrots, all simmered in a savory, warm broth.

Soup Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (thinly sliced)
• 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)

Broth Ingredients

• 10 to 12 cups low sodium chicken broth (I normally use 12 cups because I like a brothier soup)
• 4 thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves

Chicken Ingredients

• 2 pounds skinless, bone-in chicken breasts
• 1¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

Noodles & Garnish

• 10 ounces carba-nada noodles (low carb noodles) (or use regular wide egg noodles)
• chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat the olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, sliced celery, and carrots; cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds.

Step 2: Stir in the Broth and Herbs

Add the chicken broth to the pot. Make sure to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaves; increase heat to high until it reaches a simmer.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Cook

Introduce the chicken breasts into the pot along with salt and pepper. Stir gently then cover. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Remove the Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and place them onto a cutting board.

Step 5: Adding Noodles

If you’re using regular egg noodles, toss them into the broth now and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes until al dente. If using Carba-Nada noodles, wait until you add back in the shredded chicken since they only take about 4 to 5 minutes to cook.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

While waiting for the noodles to finish cooking, shred the cooked chicken meat using two forks. Discard any bones.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Stir shredded chicken back into the pot. Cover again and let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat; discard thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Taste test before serving – adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect any day of the year!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving chicken noodle soup can be a delightful experience, enhancing the cozy feeling it brings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds flavor and texture.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens the dish.
• Chives or Green Onions: Adding chives gives a mild onion flavor.

Accompanied by Sides

• Salad: A light green salad pairs well for a refreshing contrast.
• Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses for a savory touch.

For Extra Flavor

• Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup for brightness.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can add a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting chicken noodle soup is about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make your soup exceptional.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and onions for vibrant flavors.
• Cook Chicken Right: Ensure chicken is cooked until tender but not overdone to maintain juiciness.
• Season Gradually: Taste during the cooking process and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: If using regular noodles, add them at the right time to avoid mushiness.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit briefly after cooking; flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with chicken noodle soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A mix of greens with vinaigrette offers freshness.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty cheese complements the soup’s warmth perfectly.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet cornbread adds a comforting touch.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide added nutrition and flavor.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad serves as a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken noodle soup can be a simple task, but there are common mistakes you should avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the vegetables first can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always sauté your onions, celery, and carrots to enhance their flavors.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor broth can ruin your soup. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option and better flavor control.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Make sure to monitor the cooking time and remove the chicken once it’s no longer pink.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to season your soup before serving can make it bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Forgetting to Remove Herbs: Leaving thyme sprigs and bay leaves in the soup can create an unpleasant texture. Remember to discard these before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chicken noodle soup in an airtight container.
• It keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of noodles work best for Chicken Noodle Soup?

You can use egg noodles, whole wheat noodles, or even low-carb options like Carba-Nada noodles depending on your dietary needs.

Can I use leftover chicken for this Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and will save you time in preparation.

How do I make Chicken Noodle Soup gluten-free?

For gluten-free chicken noodle soup, substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.

How long does homemade Chicken Noodle Soup last in the fridge?

Homemade chicken noodle soup lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables to my Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This chicken noodle soup recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust it based on dietary preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness that brings everyone together!