Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any time of year, especially during the colder months.
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe has been passed down through generations, offering a warm and hearty meal that brings comfort and joy. It's perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for cold days
- Homemade broth that enhances the flavor
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth creates a nurturing experience that warms both the body and soul.
Making your own soup allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring a wholesome meal that caters to your tastes. The process of simmering the broth fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste along the way. Plus, there's a certain joy in crafting a dish from scratch, knowing exactly what goes into your food.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the great things about Chicken Noodle Soup is its versatility. While this recipe provides a classic base, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn, or even throw in some spinach for a nutritious boost. You can also adjust the herbs and spices to create a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours.
If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. Additionally, you can swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a go-to recipe that you can adapt season after season.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Chicken Noodle Soup is an excellent choice for meal prepping. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can easily be frozen for later use. Preparing a large batch means you always have a comforting meal ready to go, saving you time on busy weeknights. Just be sure to add the noodles fresh when you're reheating, as they can become mushy if left in the soup for too long.
To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave until it reaches your desired temperature. You can always add a splash of broth or water if it thickens up too much during storage. This ensures that each serving remains deliciously hearty, just like the first bowl.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 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
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add Garlic and Broth
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil.
Cook Noodles
Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Allow the soup to cool before storing leftovers in the refrigerator.
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing Chicken Noodle Soup, it's best to keep the noodles separate if you plan to make a large batch in advance. This helps prevent them from becoming overly soft and mushy when reheated. Store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months for longer-lasting freshness.
To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion as the soup freezes. When you're ready to enjoy a warm bowl, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal experience, consider serving your Chicken Noodle Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
If you're hosting guests, you can elevate the dining experience by setting up a soup bar with optional toppings like grated Parmesan cheese, croutons, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing twist. This interactive approach not only enhances the flavors but also allows everyone to tailor their bowl to their liking.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken Noodle Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health, and celery contributes to hydration due to its high water content.
Moreover, homemade broth is known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion and promoting joint health thanks to its collagen content. This makes Chicken Noodle Soup a nourishing option, especially during colder months or when you're feeling under the weather, providing both comfort and health in every spoonful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and adds great flavor.
→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or omit the noodles entirely.
→ Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, it freezes well, but it's best to freeze without noodles. Add noodles when reheating.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any time of year, especially during the colder months.
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil.
Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g