Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s comforting, nourishing, and packed with flavor.
Whether you need a quick meal or something to soothe a sore throat, this soup is a go-to dish. Plus, making it from scratch ensures fresh ingredients and no unnecessary preservatives.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or fresh)
- 2 cups egg noodles or any preferred pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ teaspoon turmeric for extra color and health benefits
Substitutions and Variations:
- Use vegetable broth for a lighter taste
- Substitute egg noodles with rice or gluten-free pasta
- Add lemon juice for a fresh twist
- Make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients before cooking.
- Chop the vegetables – Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
- Choose your noodles – Egg noodles are traditional, but any pasta works.
- Prep the chicken – If using fresh chicken, cook and shred it. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
If you’re using raw chicken, cook it first.
Boiling Method:
- Place 2 chicken breasts in a pot with 4 cups of broth.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove, let it cool, and shred with a fork.
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut:
- Simply shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time!
Step 3: Making the Broth
The broth is the heart of the soup, so make it flavorful!
- If using store-bought broth, enhance it by simmering with garlic, onion, and herbs.
- For homemade broth, simmer chicken bones with veggies for a few hours.
- Add dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables
For the best texture, cook the vegetables properly.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 5: Adding the Noodles
To avoid soggy noodles:
- Add them at the end, about 8-10 minutes before serving.
- If storing leftovers, cook noodles separately and add them when reheating.
Step 6: Combining Everything Together
Now, bring all elements together:
- Pour the chicken broth over the sautéed veggies.
- Add the shredded chicken.
- Stir in the noodles and cook until tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 7: Serving the Soup
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use fresh ingredients – The fresher, the better.
- Avoid overcooking the noodles – They absorb liquid quickly!
- Enhance the broth – Simmer longer for richer flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Noodle Soup
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze (without noodles) for up to 3 months.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat.
Variations of Chicken Noodle Soup
- Creamy Version: Add heavy cream or milk.
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Keeps you hydrated and soothes sore throats.
Boosts immunity with vitamins from veggies.
Provides protein for muscle repair.
FAQs about Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
What are the essential ingredients for easy chicken noodle soup?
The essential ingredients for a basic chicken noodle soup include chicken (breast or thigh), noodles, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Herbs like parsley or thyme add extra flavor but are optional.
How long does it take to make chicken noodle soup?
You can prepare a simple chicken noodle soup in about 30 to 45 minutes. If using pre-cooked chicken and vegetables, the cooking time can be reduced to 20 minutes.
Can I use store-bought chicken broth for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought chicken broth is perfect for this recipe and saves time. For a richer flavor, consider using a low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.
Is chicken noodle soup healthy?
Chicken noodle soup is generally healthy as it contains protein-rich chicken, various vegetables, and broth which helps hydration. It’s often considered a good option for a nutritious meal, especially when made with whole-grain noodles and lots of vegetables.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles as they can become mushy when reheated. Add fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve it after thawing.
What can I serve with chicken noodle soup?
Chicken noodle soup pairs well with a variety of sides such as crusty bread, a green salad, or a light sandwich. It’s hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker, place all ingredients except the noodles into the cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How can I make my chicken noodle soup more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your chicken noodle soup, you can sauté the vegetables in olive oil before adding the broth, use homemade chicken broth, or add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking for a bright touch.
