Comfort Food Recipes With Chicken And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Recipes With Chicken And Noodles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of half a lemon

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I’ve always found comfort in a warm bowl of chicken and noodles, especially during colder days. For me, this dish is not just about taste; it’s a nostalgic journey that reminds me of family gatherings and cozy evenings. The savory broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles create a harmonious blend that's both satisfying and nourishing. Each bite is like a warm hug, and I've perfected this recipe over the years to ensure it brings a smile to every table. You'll want to share it with loved ones, too!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-22T07:37:11.894Z

In my quest to craft the ultimate chicken and noodles dish, I spent countless evenings experimenting with different broths and seasoning blends. What truly makes this recipe shine is the way I allow the chicken to simmer in the broth, infusing it with deep flavors that elevate the entire dish. I've learned that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the taste and balances the richness beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to use homemade or store-bought roasted chicken. The subtle smoky flavor it brings cuts through the richness of the noodles, creating an unforgettable taste experience. This dish is a reminder of the power of simple ingredients working in harmony to create something extraordinary.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich flavors that evoke nostalgia
Perfectly tender chicken paired with comforting noodles
Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting chicken for this dish, consider using a rotisserie chicken for added convenience and richness in flavor. This can save you time while ensuring that the chicken is infused with herbs and spices. If you prefer to cook your own chicken, poaching boneless chicken breasts in the broth adds moisture and allows the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors from the beginning.

Pairing your chicken with the right seasonings during cooking is crucial. A sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary can enhance the overall depth of flavor, particularly when sautéing it alongside the vegetables. Remember, the more aromatic the broth and chicken are, the more flavorful the final dish will be.

Mastering Your Noodles

Egg noodles are ideal for this soup due to their ability to hold up without becoming mushy. When cooking the noodles, keeping an eye on the clock is essential. Aim for al dente — they should be just tender with a slight bite left, especially since they will continue cooking in the hot broth after being added. Overcooked noodles can turn the soup gummy and less appealing.

If you can't find egg noodles, medium shells or even whole wheat varieties can work as substitutes; just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the package instructions, which may differ. To avoid sticky noodles, rinse them with cold water before adding them to the soup if they're precooked.

Storing and Reheating Your Soup

This chicken and noodle soup is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the soup base in advance and simply add the noodles closer to serving time. Storing the soup without noodles prevents them from becoming overly soft. Cool your soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.

When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to avoid boiling, which can ruin the texture of the noodles. If the soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to recreate this comfort food classic:

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of half a lemon

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Cook the Noodles and Chicken

Add the egg noodles and shredded chicken to the pot. Cook according to noodle package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.

Finish with Seasoning

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and stir in the lemon juice just before serving for a fresh kick.

Serve hot and enjoy your bowl of comfort!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley just before serving. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.

Creative Serving Suggestions

For a delightful twist, consider garnishing your chicken and noodle soup with freshly chopped parsley or chives. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh, vibrant flavor that brightens the dish. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can also enhance the savory elements of the soup, creating a luxurious finish.

Pairing your soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad can turn it into a well-rounded meal. This not only makes it comforting but also allows for a satisfying balance of textures.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this comfort dish! Adding frozen peas or corn towards the end of the cooking process can introduce a sweet crunch and additional nutrients. Alternatively, you could mix in some spinach or kale just before serving for a healthy green boost that wilts nicely without losing texture.

For those desiring a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh jalapeño added with the garlic can turn this familiar recipe into a comforting spicy bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, such as rice noodles or spaghetti.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, the chicken and noodles can be frozen. Just be aware that noodles may become softer upon reheating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.