Chicken noodle soup is the perfect cozy dish for any day. Loaded with tender chicken, soft noodles, and fresh veggies, it’s comforting and delicious, just like a warm hug!
When I make this soup, my whole house smells amazing! I love enjoying a big bowl with some crusty bread. It’s like a mini celebration of warmth on a chilly day. 🍲❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work great for sautéing! I usually prefer olive oil for a lighter taste, but butter adds richness. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil for a delightful flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth, but you can swap in shallots or green onions if you like a milder taste. I’ve even used leeks for a twist!
Carrots and Celery: These are classic veggies for flavor. If you’re out, feel free to toss in bell peppers or even spinach for a different texture.
Chicken Broth: I recommend low-sodium broth to control the salt level, but homemade is the best for depth of flavor! You can also use vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to since it’s so convenient. You can use leftover chicken or even a can of chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles give that classic feel, but you can also use rice noodles or whole wheat pasta if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Do You Ensure Flavor in Your Chicken Noodle Soup?
The key to a flavorful chicken noodle soup lies in the sautéing process. Take your time to sauté those veggies until they soften and grow fragrant. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with medium heat and let the olive oil or butter melt completely.
- Add your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until they soften.
- Don’t skip the garlic! Add it last during the sauté and cook just until fragrant.
- When you pour in the broth, bring it to a gentle boil so all those flavors can mingle.
Finally, let the soup simmer to ensure all the flavors really come together. A little patience goes a long way!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 carrots, sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached chicken breast/thigh)
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide egg pasta noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken noodle soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20-25 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll have a warm, comforting pot of soup ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Your Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant. This step is key to building flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Broth:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until it’s aromatic. Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. The smell will start making your kitchen feel cozy!
3. Flavor it Up:
Once boiling, add in the dried thyme, dried parsley, and the bay leaf (if you’re using it). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the soup bubble gently for about 10-15 minutes. This will help soften the carrots and develop all those wonderful flavors.
4. Cook the Noodles:
After simmering, it’s time to add the egg noodles. Stir them into the soup and cook according to the package instructions—this is usually around 6-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
5. Stir in Chicken and Serve:
When the noodles are ready, stir in the shredded chicken and heat everything through for a few more minutes. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf if you added one! Taste your soup and add more salt or pepper if it needs it. Now, it’s time to serve!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a little extra black pepper for that finishing touch. Serve your comforting chicken noodle soup hot, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it first. The best way is to let it sit in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water until thawed. Just ensure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the soup!
What Can I Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you’re out of egg noodles, you can easily substitute them with other pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be mindful of the cooking times—they may differ slightly from egg noodles!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or microwave. If the noodles absorb too much broth while stored, add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating to bring back its soupiness!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for protein. Toss in some extra veggies, like spinach or zucchini, for added flavor and nutrition!
