Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. This delicious and nourishing recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a soothing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather. Packed with tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and flavorful vegetables, this chicken noodle soup is easy to make and sure to warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you through every step to create the perfect bowl of soup.

Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is Special

This chicken noodle soup recipe stands out for its simplicity, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients. Unlike many store-bought versions, this homemade soup is free from preservatives and loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and tender pieces of chicken. The combination of dried herbs and fresh parsley enhances the taste, while the slow simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it’s versatile—you can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup

To make this comforting chicken noodle soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced: Provides a natural sweetness and adds a pop of color.
• 2 ribs of celery, chopped: Adds a crunchy texture and complements the carrots.
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped: Enhances the savory base flavor of the soup.
• 10 cups chicken stock: Forms the base of the soup. Use a high-quality stock or homemade for the best flavor.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a warm, peppery note that complements the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
• 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the soup and adds a fresh herbal note.
• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe.
• 8 oz egg noodles: Provides a chewy texture; can substitute with gluten-free noodles if needed.
• Salt and pepper to taste: To season the soup perfectly.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

• Large stockpot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and onion. Sauté these vegetables for 5-6 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
2. Add the Broth and Herbs: Once the vegetables are tender, pour in the chicken stock. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried basil, and half of the chopped parsley. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 to 40 minutes. The longer you let it simmer, the richer the flavor will become.
3. Incorporate the Chicken and Noodles: After the soup has simmered and the flavors have melded together, add the uncooked egg noodles and the shredded chicken to the pot. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the noodles are fully cooked and the chicken is heated through.
4. Season and Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use Quality Stock: The chicken stock is the heart of your soup. Opt for a good-quality store-bought broth or, even better, make your own. This adds a depth of flavor that is hard to beat.
• Cook the Noodles Separately for Leftovers: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to each bowl individually. This prevents the noodles from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End: While dried herbs are perfect for simmering and infusing flavors, fresh herbs like parsley should be added at the end to keep their vibrant color and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long before adding the broth can make them too soft and mushy. Aim for a tender but firm texture by sautéing them just until they are tender.
• Boiling Instead of Simmering: Once you’ve added the chicken stock, reduce the heat to a simmer. Boiling can cause the chicken to become tough and the broth to turn cloudy.
• Adding Noodles Too Early: To avoid soggy noodles, add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking, just enough time to cook through but not overcook.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your chicken noodle soup even more inviting, consider these presentation ideas:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thyme leaves can add color and freshness.
• Add a Slice of Lemon: Serve with a lemon wedge on the side for a burst of citrus that can brighten up the flavors.
• Serve with Fresh Bread: A side of warm, crusty bread or a soft roll can make this meal even more satisfying.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free noodles or even rice.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep the soup fresh:

• Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: Warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Freeze: Chicken noodle soup freezes well, but it is best to freeze it without the noodles. Cook the noodles fresh when you are ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup? Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy when thawed and reheated.
• Can I Use Different Vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, spinach, or zucchini.
• Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker? Yes, you can. Add all ingredients except the noodles to the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Now that you have this ultimate chicken noodle soup recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start cooking! This recipe is perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or any time you need a little extra comfort in a bowl. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with us! Leave a comment below, share the recipe with your friends, and subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes.

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