Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
A Cozy Classic to Warm Your Soul
One of my all-time favorite comfort foods has to be classic chicken noodle soup. Picture this: a chilly evening, maybe a rainy weekend, or a day when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s during these moments that a soothing bowl of chicken noodle soup works its magic. This hearty and wholesome dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every sip. Cooking this recipe will fill your home with inviting aromas and create lasting memories, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire.
Reasons to Try This Dish
You might wonder what sets this classic chicken noodle soup apart. Well, let me tell you—a few simple ingredients come together to create something truly special! This recipe is quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, making it the ideal choice for those weeknight dinners when you want something fulfilling without spending hours in the kitchen. And trust me, you’ll love how the flavors meld together, delivering a comforting meal in under an hour.
“This classic chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food! It’s become a family favorite, especially during the winter months. The flavor is incredible, and it’s so easy to make!” – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Making classic chicken noodle soup is easier than you might think! It involves just a few key steps that lead to a bowl of warmth and comfort. Allow me to walk you through the process: you’ll be sautéing some veggies, simmering flavorful broth with chicken, and finishing with egg noodles. In no time, you’ll be ladling this delightful soup into bowls and enjoying the fruits of your labor!
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking, gather the following key ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta you like)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: juice of 1/2 lemon for brightness
Feel free to swap out the vegetables or use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of classic chicken noodle soup:
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In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil or butter and heat it until shimmering. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté them for about 5–7 minutes until they soften. Now, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Next, add the chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, and then lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through.
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks, and return the shredded meat back to the soup.
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Stir in the egg noodles and let them cook for 6–8 minutes, or until they are tender to your liking.
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Finally, remove the bay leaves, mix in the chopped parsley, and add lemon juice if desired. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Now that your soup is ready, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into warm bowls and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad for a balanced meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, offer a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top or a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch. A sprinkle of more fresh herbs can also brighten the presentation—especially if you have extras lying around.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you happen to have any soup left over (though I doubt it!), proper storage is key! Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to separate the noodles if you plan to freeze it—this helps prevent them from becoming mushy upon reheating.
Pro Chef Tips
For the best results, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of white wine before adding the chicken broth. It adds depth to the soup and enhances the flavor profile.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill added at the end for a fresher taste.
- Make Ahead: The soup is great for meal prep! You can make a larger batch and divide it into individual portions for quick lunches.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead. Add more vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy chicken noodle soup!
- Asian Twist: Add soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version, and use udon noodles instead of egg noodles.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prep this recipe?
Preparation usually takes around 10-15 minutes, with total cooking time being about 40–50 minutes.
Can I use frozen chicken for this soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time a little, so it’s fully cooked through.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze portions for up to three months.
Can I substitute the egg noodles?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, like fettuccine or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.
Enjoy creating your own classic chicken noodle soup, and may each bowl be as heartwarming as the memories you’ll make along the way!
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil or butter and heat until shimmering. Toss in diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return the shredded meat back to the soup.
- Stir in egg noodles and let cook for 6–8 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove bay leaves, mix in chopped parsley, and add lemon juice if desired. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
