This hearty Chipotle Chicken Noodle Soup is packed with tender chicken, lots of flavors, and a hint of spice from smoky chipotle peppers. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
Every spoonful is a cozy hug! I love to pair it with some crusty bread for dipping. Plus, it’s simple to make—just mix, simmer, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing vegetables, but you can use butter or avocado oil if you prefer. Both will add a nice flavor!
Onion: The medium onion gives a classic flavor. If you’re out, shallots or a couple of green onions can work in a pinch.
Carrots & Celery: These add sweetness and crunch to the soup. If you don’t have them, any other veggies like bell peppers or corn can also be nice. Even frozen mixed vegetables could work!
Chipotle Peppers: These are what give the soup a nice smoky kick. If you want less heat, try using just one pepper or chili powder instead for flavor without too much spice.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine. For a healthier option, consider low-sodium broth.
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles add texture, but you can substitute with whole wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even gluten-free options if needed.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Veggies?
Cooking the vegetables correctly sets the foundation for this soup’s delicious flavor. Sautéing them helps release their natural sugars and deepens the flavors.
- Use medium heat and give the veggies enough time; about 5-7 minutes is ideal until they are soft.
- Start with the onion and garlic first, then add carrots and celery to cook all together.
- Don’t rush this step! Patience here makes a big difference in flavor.
How Do I Cook the Chicken So It Stays Tender?
To keep your chicken juicy and tender, it’s important not to overcook it.
- Cook the chicken in the broth at a simmer, not a rolling boil, which helps it cook evenly.
- Check for doneness after 15 minutes; chicken should be cooked to 165°F (73.8°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep moisture inside!
Enjoy making this warm and inviting Chipotle Chicken Noodle Soup!
Chipotle Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
- 6 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces egg noodles or your preferred noodles
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’ll need about 40 minutes to whip up this delicious soup from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This will create a delicious base for your soup!
2. Add Spice and Flavor:
Next, stir in the minced chipotle peppers, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Let everything cook together for an additional minute, allowing those wonderful aromas to fill your kitchen!
3. Boil the Broth:
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. The fragrant broth is about to make a tasty soup!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the whole chicken breasts to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. You can check that it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (73.8°C).
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken, then set it aside while we move on to the next step.
6. Cook the Noodles:
Add the noodles to the simmering broth in the pot. Make sure to cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they’re tender. This is when the soup truly starts to come together!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the shredded chicken back to the pot and give everything a good stir to combine. Taste the soup and add salt and black pepper to your liking. The flavors should blend beautifully here!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. It looks great too!
9. Add a Zesty Touch:
Provide lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze some fresh lime juice over their soup. This adds a zesty kick that complements the chipotle perfectly!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Chipotle Chicken Noodle Soup!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Raw Chicken?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, use about 2 cups shredded chicken. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through, skipping the initial cooking step for the chicken.
What If I Don’t Have Chipotle Peppers?
If you’re out of chipotle peppers or prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky taste or use mild chili powder. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with your choice of beans—like black beans or chickpeas—and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add extra veggies for heartiness, such as corn or bell peppers.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
