Growing up, Chicken Noodle Soup was a constant in our household. Whenever someone in the family was feeling under the weather, my mom would spring into action, simmering a big pot of her famous homemade broth. The aroma of sautéed onions, celery, and fragrant herbs would fill the air, instantly lifting our spirits and reminding us of the comfort and love that only a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup can provide.
I can still remember sitting around the kitchen table, eagerly awaiting a steaming hot bowl, the tender chunks of chicken and perfectly cooked noodles beckoning me to dive in. It was the ultimate restorative elixir, soothing our sore throats and nourishing our bodies. Whether we were battling a nasty cold or simply craving a cozy, satisfying meal, that beloved Chicken Noodle Soup was always there for us.
Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
Over the years, I’ve perfected my own version of this timeless classic, and I’m excited to share it with you. What sets this Chicken Noodle Soup recipe apart is the depth of flavor in the broth, achieved through a combination of slow-simmering and carefully selected ingredients. The secret? A touch of white wine and a blend of aromatic herbs that infuse the stock with an irresistible savory complexity. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll be hooked.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Whole Chicken: The foundation of the soup, providing the perfect balance of tender meat and rich, gelatinous broth.
- Onions, Carrots, and Celery: The classic “holy trinity” of aromatic vegetables that form the flavor base.
- Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory note that enhances the overall depth of the broth.
- Thyme and Parsley: These fragrant herbs lend a delightful herbaceous note and complement the chicken beautifully.
- White Wine: A splash of dry white wine adds a subtle complexity and balances the richness of the soup.
- Egg Noodles: Tender, curly egg noodles are the perfect pairing for the chicken and broth.
Step-by-Step Chicken Noodle Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Chicken Noodle Soup
Crafting the perfect Chicken Noodle Soup is a labor of love, but I promise it’s well worth the effort. This recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish, including the time needed to simmer the broth to perfection. You’ll need a large stock pot or Dutch oven, a sharp knife, and a bit of patience, but the end result will be a comforting, nourishing soup that will warm your soul.
1- Start by placing the whole chicken in a large stock pot and cover it with cold water. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the meat is cooked through and falling off the bone.
2- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Skim any foam or impurities that have risen to the surface of the broth, then add the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and a splash of white wine. Let the vegetables simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, use your hands to remove the meat from the bones, shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken meat to the simmering broth and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt and pepper to your liking. You’re looking for a rich, savory flavor that coats the back of your spoon.
5- Finally, add the egg noodles to the pot and let them cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re tender but still have a bit of bite.
6- Ladle the steaming hot Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve it up with crusty bread or a simple salad for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to the best Chicken Noodle Soup is in the broth, so be sure to simmer it low and slow to extract maximum flavor. Resist the urge to rush the process – the longer you let it simmer, the richer and more velvety the final result will be.
Another pro tip? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different noodle shapes and sizes. While classic egg noodles are a delicious choice, you can also try using small pasta shapes like orzo or even whole wheat noodles for a nutritional boost.
Serving and Storing Your Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a crusty piece of sourdough bread for dipping. For a heartier meal, consider adding a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of roasted vegetables.
And let’s not forget the drinks! A steaming mug of herbal tea or a glass of crisp white wine can take your Chicken Noodle Soup experience to the next level.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is that it reheats and stores beautifully. Simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.
You can also make this soup in advance and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a bit of headspace in the container to allow for expansion, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Chicken Noodle Soup
Creative Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
While this classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of fun ways to switch it up. Try adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale for a nutrient boost, or experiment with different noodle shapes like orzo or small shells.
For a heartier version, stir in some diced potatoes or a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings – a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon can take your soup in an entirely new direction.
Making Chicken Noodle Soup Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this Chicken Noodle Soup a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini noodles.
To reduce the carb count, you can omit the noodles altogether and serve the soup over a bed of cauliflower rice. And for a vegan or vegetarian option, simply use a high-quality vegetable broth in place of the chicken stock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: Absolutely! Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is a great option if you’re short on time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts will cook more quickly than a whole bird.
Q: How can I make this soup more filling?
A: To make your Chicken Noodle Soup more substantial, try adding a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or a handful of diced potatoes. You can also increase the amount of egg noodles or serve the soup over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this Chicken Noodle Soup freezes beautifully! Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: How do I know when the soup is done?
A: The key signs that your Chicken Noodle Soup is ready are a rich, flavorful broth and tender, fully cooked chicken. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed, and make sure the noodles are cooked through but still have a bit of bite.
Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4
Description
Enjoy a steaming bowl of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, a classic comfort food that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This delicious recipe features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and delicate noodles in a savory broth.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. – Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
3. – Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. – Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. – Add the cooked chicken, egg noodles, thyme, and bay leaf. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
6. – Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. – Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes or mushrooms. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup to warm the body and soothe the soul. With this foolproof recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a comforting, nourishing batch anytime the craving strikes. So grab your stock pot, round up the family, and get ready to savor the delicious, time-honored flavors of this beloved classic. Bon appétit!