Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is my go-to on chilly nights and busy weeknights alike. There’s something so heartwarming about a bowl of this savory soup bubbling away on the stove, filling your home with delicious aromas. It’s perfect for family gatherings or just a simple dinner at home. Not to mention, this recipe is super easy to follow, making it a favorite for cooks of all skill levels.

What truly makes this chicken noodle soup special is its rich flavor and wholesome ingredients. It’s not just tasty; it’s also healthy and satisfying. I love how you can whip it up in one pot in under an hour, which means more time to enjoy with your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavorful Comfort: Packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to enjoy later.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily tweak it based on what you have in your pantry!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These are the building blocks of our delicious homemade chicken noodle soup. Each one adds its own unique flavor to the dish.

For the Soup

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 1 cup carrots (peeled & diced)
• 1 cup celery (finely diced)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 quarts chicken broth (8 cups)
• 1 Tablespoon chicken base (better than bouillon recommended)
• 2 Pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley
• 4 cups egg noodles

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients based on what you have or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Spinach, peas, or corn can brighten up your soup while adding extra nutrition.
• Change the noodles: Try whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta depending on dietary needs.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your soup a delightful kick!

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large stockpot, combine olive oil, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until the onions are translucent (about 5-7 minutes). Sautéing these vegetables first not only enhances their flavors but also builds a fantastic base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken Base

Next, add the chicken broth and better than bouillon to the stockpot. Whisk them together until well combined. This step ensures that all those rich flavors meld beautifully into your soup.

Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Herbs

Now it’s time to add in the chicken breasts along with parsley, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently—you want each ingredient to be well-distributed throughout the pot for optimal flavor.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Bring this delicious mixture to a boil! Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is fork-tender. This slow cooking process allows all those wonderful flavors to deepen.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove and discard bay leaves and thyme sprigs from your pot. Carefully take out the chicken breasts—shred them with forks before returning them back into the pot. Shredding helps distribute tender pieces throughout your soup.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Bring everything back up to a boil once more before adding in those egg noodles. Boil for about 10 minutes or until they are perfectly cooked. This final step transforms our hearty broth into a complete meal that’s ready to serve!

Step 7: Serve Warm

Your homemade chicken noodle soup is now ready! Ladle it into bowls while it’s warm and enjoy every comforting spoonful with family or friends.

This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe will surely become a cherished part of your meal rotation—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Making chicken noodle soup is a comforting experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors of your soup, making it taste more vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t skip the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer for an adequate amount of time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning towards the end: Tasting before serving lets you fine-tune the salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring that every bowl is perfectly seasoned.
• Consider adding lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors, giving your soup a refreshing twist.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Serving homemade chicken noodle soup is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas to help you present this heartwarming dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your soup.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavor profile and adds a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of crusty bread or baguette pairs perfectly with chicken noodle soup, allowing for delightful dipping and soaking.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwich: The classic combo of grilled cheese adds comfort and indulgence, perfect for dunking in your flavorful broth.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy side that complements the richness of the soup while adding extra nutrients.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your homemade chicken noodle soup! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This homemade chicken noodle soup is perfect for meal prep! Making a large batch not only saves time but also ensures you have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious soup later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you notice any separation of broth and noodles, give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then pour it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container or bag to allow for expansion as it freezes.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also use a microwave; heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our homemade chicken noodle soup recipe:

Can I make this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Adjust cooking times as needed according to package instructions.

How can I make the Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit chicken. You can add more vegetables or legumes for protein and heartiness.

Can I use leftover chicken in this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works great. Simply add it towards the end of cooking after you bring the broth to a boil, then add noodles. Adjust cooking time as necessary.

What herbs can I substitute in this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano if thyme isn’t available. Fresh herbs may provide varied flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe! It’s not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort on chilly days or anytime you need a little pick-me-up. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking!