30-minute Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

When you’re craving something warm, spicy, and incredibly satisfying, this 30-minute spicy chicken noodle soup recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, and comforting noodles, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or whenever you need a quick, delicious meal that warms you up from the inside out. It’s easy to make, customizable to your spice preferences, and ready in just half an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals but don’t have a lot of time to cook. It combines the comforting, familiar flavors of classic chicken noodle soup with a spicy kick from jalapenos, chili powder, and hot sauce. The result is a soup that’s both soothing and invigorating, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this 30-minute spicy chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ medium white or yellow onion, diced (about ½ cup)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (about ½ cup)
• 2 celery ribs, diced (about ½ cup)
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped (2-3 tablespoons)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 6 ounces egg noodles
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce, or to taste
• Cilantro, chopped (optional, for serving)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Required

• 3-quart Dutch oven or stock pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a 3-quart Dutch oven or stock pan. This will help prevent the vegetables from sticking and bring out their flavors.
2. Saute the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, and chopped jalapeno to the pan. Saute for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened. This step enhances their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base for your soup.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow the spices to bloom, releasing their aromatic flavors.
4. Pour in the Chicken Broth: Add the 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. This creates a rich, savory base for your soup.
5. Add Chicken and Noodles: Once the broth is boiling, add 2 cups of diced or shredded cooked chicken and 6 ounces of egg noodles. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the noodles are tender.
6. Season to Taste: Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting as needed. Taste the soup and add more hot sauce, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired, for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce or omit the jalapeno, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or more hot sauce.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and jalapenos enhance the overall flavor profile of the soup. Avoid pre-chopped or canned versions if possible.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: The noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Check them frequently and remove the soup from the heat as soon as they are tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Sautéing the vegetables for too long can make them lose their texture and flavor. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally.
• Using Too Much Spice: Be cautious when adding spices and hot sauce. Start with smaller quantities and adjust based on your taste.
• Forgetting to Taste as You Go: Taste the soup at every stage to ensure the seasoning is balanced. This will help you catch any adjustments needed before it’s too late.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the Noodles: You can substitute egg noodles with rice noodles, whole wheat noodles, or even gluten-free pasta for a different texture or dietary preference.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving and Presentation Suggestions

Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the heat, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerating: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Be aware that the noodles may become softer after freezing and reheating. Consider cooking the noodles separately if you plan to freeze portions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different noodles?
  Yes, you can use any type of noodles you prefer, such as rice noodles, whole wheat pasta, or gluten-free noodles.
• How spicy is this soup?
  The spice level is moderate, but you can easily adjust it by adding more or less jalapeno, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce.
• Can I make this soup ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

This 30-minute spicy chicken noodle soup recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful meal. With its customizable spice levels and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

Print