Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound bone-in chicken thighs (or chicken breasts if preferred)
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 a yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
- 12 ounces frozen egg noodles (or fresh if available)
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large stockpot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and discard the skin. Set the chicken aside.
- Prepare the Base: Remove the pan drippings, reserving 2 tablespoons, and return them to the pot. Add the diced celery, sliced carrots, and chopped onion to the pot. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried basil. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in 8 cups of chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, reduce the heat, and let the soup simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. The soup should have a light, steady bubble — not a rapid boil.
- Cook the Noodles: Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Increase the heat and bring the soup back to a boil. Add the frozen egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 20 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Shred the Chicken and Finish the Soup: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces. When the noodles are cooked, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well to combine, and serve hot!
Notes
Presentation Ideas for Serving Chicken Noodle Soup
Serve this delicious soup in deep bowls with a garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper on top for extra flavor. Pair with crusty bread, a side salad, or some homemade crackers to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Lunch