There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup to soothe the soul and bring comfort, whether you’re battling a cold, warming up on a chilly day, or simply craving something cozy. This easy, wholesome recipe is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft egg noodles in a flavorful broth. It’s a timeless favorite for a reason!
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
For Flavor and Texture:
1 cup uncooked egg noodles
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Soup Base:
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the chicken broth, water, chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
Bring to a Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a boil.
2️⃣ Simmer for Flavor:
Reduce Heat: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
3️⃣ Add the Noodles:
Cook the Egg Noodles: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are soft and tender.
4️⃣ Final Touches:
Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this soup with crusty bread or buttered dinner rolls for a heartier meal.
Add a light, crisp green salad for a fresh contrast.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor of this classic soup.
Customize Your Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to substitute with pasta shapes like ditalini or fusilli.
Thicker Soup: If you prefer a heartier soup, stir in a slurry made of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water during the simmering stage.
Cook Noodles Separately (Optional): To prevent the noodles from soaking up too much broth in leftovers, cook them separately and add to each serving.
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: For an even quicker option, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: ~250 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
Fat: ~6g
Fiber: ~2g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome ingredients.
Comforting & Versatile: Perfect as a starter, light lunch, or complete dinner.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!