The best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe

If you’re looking for comfort in a bowl, then you’ve come to the right place! The best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is like a warm hug, perfect for those chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. This delightful soup is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with wholesome ingredients that make it a family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering of loved ones, this soup brings everyone together around the table.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s simple, nourishing, and full of love. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles creates a symphony of flavors that will fill your home with the most inviting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this tasty soup simmering on your stove in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every spoonful of this comforting classic.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean chicken, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this heartwarming soup. You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen or at your local grocery store!

For the Soup

• 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken breast
• 8 cups of homemade chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 to 3 celery stalks
• 1 small onion
• 3 medium carrots
• 3 cups of egg noodles (uncooked)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for a different flavor, try using turkey or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: A dash of red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick if you like your soup with some heat.
• Use different noodles: Swap out egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.

How to Make The best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing, drying, and dicing your carrots, onions, and celery. This step is crucial because fresh vegetables add vibrant flavor and nutrition to our soup. Plus, chopping them into uniform pieces helps ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat up your favorite oil—be it olive oil or coconut oil. Once hot, sauté the diced carrots, onions, and celery until the onions become translucent. This process enhances their natural sweetness and lays a flavorful foundation for our soup.

Step 3: Combine Everything in a Stock Pot

Transfer the sautéed vegetables into a large stock pot. Add in your homemade chicken broth along with the shredded chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bringing all these elements together creates that rich flavor profile we love in chicken noodle soup.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Set your pot over medium heat and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, toss in those uncooked egg noodles. Cooking them directly in the broth allows them to absorb all that delicious flavor!

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Let everything cook for about 15 minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the noodles are tender but still have a nice bite. This step ensures each serving offers that perfect mix of chicken and noodles.

Step 6: Serve as Desired

Once done cooking, serve up this delightful soup warm! Enjoy it on its own or pair it with some crusty bread for an even heartier meal.

Now that you know how to make The best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe let me know how yours turns out! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making The best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe

Making homemade chicken noodle soup is not only comforting but also a delightful experience. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth enhance the flavor of your soup, making it more aromatic and nutritious.

• Sauté your veggies: Taking the time to sauté the onions, carrots, and celery brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your broth.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your broth before adding more salt or spices, as the flavors will develop during cooking.

• Cook noodles separately if needed: If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately. This prevents them from becoming mushy when reheated.

• Add herbs at the end: For a burst of freshness, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving. This adds vibrant flavor and color.

How to Serve The best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe

Serving this hearty chicken noodle soup can be as simple or as elegant as you wish. Here are some ideas for presenting this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh herbal note that complements the soup beautifully.
• Lemon wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests who enjoy a zesty kick. A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors wonderfully!
• Cracked black pepper: Offering freshly cracked black pepper allows everyone to customize their spice level, enhancing the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It adds a wonderful texture contrast and makes for a satisfying meal.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: For a classic combo, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich. The melted cheese complements the warm broth perfectly.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies provide additional nutrition and flavor while complementing the heartiness of the chicken noodle soup.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to make and enjoy what truly is the best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and store it for those busy days when you need a quick and nourishing meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the noodles separate if possible, as they may become mushy when stored in the broth.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.
• Label each container with the date and contents to keep track of your supplies.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between until evenly heated.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting recipe!

What makes this the best homemade chicken noodle soup recipe?

The combination of homemade chicken broth, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken makes this soup incredibly flavorful and wholesome. It’s a warm hug in a bowl!

Can I customize this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like peas or green beans. You can also adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences!

How long does this chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?

This delicious chicken noodle soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container!

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still delivering great flavor. Just shred it and toss it into your broth!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting bowl of goodness as much as I do! This recipe is not just about filling your belly; it’s about warmth, family, and cherished memories. So gather your loved ones around the table, savor every spoonful, and create moments that will last a lifetime. Happy cooking!