Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather.
This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It’s hearty, flavorful, and made with love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty broth that warms the soul
- Tender chicken pieces and fresh vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers creates a sense of warmth and nostalgia. This dish is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly day or a remedy when you're feeling under the weather. Each spoonful is packed with hearty flavors and nutrients, making it a go-to for families everywhere.
Using fresh ingredients enhances the taste and nutritional value of your soup. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory broth not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Whether you're serving it for dinner or packing it for lunch, this soup guarantees satisfaction.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Homemade chicken noodle soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for any occasion. It's perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a comforting dish for friends in need. You can easily double the recipe to feed a crowd or prepare a batch to freeze for later. The flavor only improves after a day in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy leftovers that taste just as good, if not better!
This soup also adapts beautifully to your dietary preferences. Feel free to swap in gluten-free noodles or add more vegetables like spinach or peas for a nutritious twist. With a few simple adjustments, you can create a meal that everyone will love.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the standout features of this recipe is its ease of preparation, making it ideal for meal prep. Spend a little time on the weekend preparing this soup, and you’ll have nourishing lunches or quick dinners ready to go throughout the week. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days and can be frozen for longer storage, ensuring you always have a comforting meal at your fingertips.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. This convenience means you can enjoy the homemade goodness without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Chicken and Noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to taste!
Instructions
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Broth
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme and bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
Cook Noodles
Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Add Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve
Remove the bay leaf, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Enjoy your warm and delicious soup!
Storing and Reheating
Proper storage is key to enjoying your homemade chicken noodle soup later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will last for about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers. This way, you can easily thaw just the amount you need for a quick meal.
When reheating, be mindful that the noodles might absorb some broth, making the soup thicker. Adding a little extra broth or water while reheating will restore the desired consistency. Always heat thoroughly until steaming, and enjoy the comforting flavors once again!
Customizing Your Soup
One of the joys of making chicken noodle soup is the ability to customize it according to your taste. Consider adding different herbs and spices such as rosemary or dill for an extra layer of flavor. You could also experiment with various vegetables; zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can all be great additions.
If you're looking for a spicy kick, a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the dish. Don't hesitate to adjust the chicken quantity or substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a canvas for your culinary creativity!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It's a great time-saver.
→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the noodles before freezing.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for more variety.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Chicken and Noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme and bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the bay leaf, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g