Growing up, Classic Chicken Noodle Soup was always the ultimate comfort food in my family. Whenever someone was feeling under the weather or just needed a little extra TLC, my mom would whip up a big batch of her signature chicken noodle soup, and the entire house would fill with the most incredible aroma. I can still vividly remember coming home from school on a chilly autumn day, my nose leading me straight to the kitchen where a pot of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup was simmering away on the stove. The steam would fill the air, and I’d eagerly grab a bowl, the hot broth warming me from the inside out.
There was just something so nourishing and comforting about that Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. The tender chunks of chicken, the perfectly cooked egg noodles, the vibrant vegetables – it was like a big hug in a bowl. And of course, no classic chicken noodle soup would be complete without that rich, flavorful broth. Mom always took the time to make hers from scratch, simmering the bones and aromatics for hours to extract every last bit of goodness. That’s the secret to her soup’s unparalleled flavor.
Why This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
Decades later, I still find myself craving that Classic Chicken Noodle Soup from my childhood. It’s the kind of dish that just hits the spot no matter what. That’s why I’m so excited to share my mom’s tried-and-true recipe with you. This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is not only incredibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make at home. With a few simple techniques and high-quality ingredients, you can recreate that authentic, homemade flavor in your own kitchen.
The Secret Behind Perfect Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
The secret to this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe lies in the broth. By simmering the chicken bones and aromatic vegetables for an extended period, you’ll extract all the rich, flavorful goodness that makes this soup so comforting and satisfying. It’s a labor of love, but the end result is well worth it. I also like to add a touch of fresh thyme and a pinch of celery seed to really elevate the classic flavors.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Whole chicken or chicken bones: The foundation of the soup, providing a deeply flavorful broth.
– Onion, carrots, and celery: The holy trinity of aromatic vegetables that add depth and sweetness.
– Egg noodles: For that quintessential Classic Chicken Noodle Soup texture.
– Fresh thyme: Lending an earthy, herbal note to the broth.
– Celery seed: A subtle yet essential spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
– Salt and pepper: To season the soup to perfection.
Step-by-Step Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup comes together in a few simple steps. You’ll start by simmering the chicken bones and aromatic vegetables to create a rich, flavorful broth. Then, you’ll add in the chicken meat, egg noodles, and final seasonings to complete the dish. The entire process takes around 2 hours, but the majority of that time is hands-off simmering.
1- Place the whole chicken or chicken bones in a large stockpot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the broth simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, skimming any foam or fat that rises to the surface.
2- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and continue simmering for 30 minutes to 1 hour, until the vegetables are very tender and the broth is deeply flavorful.
3- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
4- Return the shredded chicken to the pot, along with the egg noodles. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
5- Stir in the fresh thyme and celery seed, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6- Ladle the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
– For an even richer broth, roast the chicken bones before simmering.
– Don’t be tempted to skip the long simmering time – it’s essential for developing the deep, complex flavor.
– Be sure to skim the surface of the broth regularly to remove any impurities or excess fat.
– Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – the amount of salt can vary depending on the saltiness of your chicken.
Serving and Storing Your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfect Pairings for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. A fresh, crisp salad or some crusty bread are always welcome companions. For a heartier meal, you could serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a plate of roasted vegetables. And of course, no bowl of classic chicken noodle soup is complete without a few crackers or oyster crackers sprinkled on top.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe makes a large batch, so you can enjoy it all week long. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The soup also freezes exceptionally well – just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Creative Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
While this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is pretty much perfect as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a heartier version, you could add in some diced potatoes or a handful of wild rice. Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. And if you’re a fan of herbs, try mixing in some fresh parsley, oregano, or even a bit of rosemary.
Making Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a low-carb version, skip the egg noodles and use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead. You can also reduce the amount of chicken and amp up the veggies for a lighter, more vegetable-forward soup. And for a vegan or vegetarian take, simply omit the chicken and use a vegetable broth as the base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine in this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe. Just be sure to adjust the simmering time accordingly, as boneless, skinless chicken breasts will cook much faster than a whole chicken.
Q: How long does the soup need to simmer?
A: The key to this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the long simmering time, which allows the broth to develop its rich, complex flavor. You’ll want to simmer the chicken bones for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, then add the vegetables and simmer for another 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect make-ahead meal. The flavors actually improve after a day or two in the fridge. Just be sure to store the noodles separately and add them when reheating to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Q: How much does this recipe make?
A: This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe makes a large batch, approximately 6-8 servings. It’s a great option for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Q: What should I do if the soup is too salty?
A: If your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup ends up being too salty, you can easily fix it. Simply add a bit more water or low-sodium broth to the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes to dilute the saltiness. You can also try stirring in a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance out the flavors.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6
Description
Savor the perfect blend of tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, and hearty noodles in this classic, comforting chicken noodle soup recipe. Enjoy a speedy, no-fail meal that’s sure to warm your soul.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. – In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. – Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. – Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. – Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. – Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. – Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender.
7. – Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. – Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a heartier soup, add in extra vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time. Garnish with extra parsley, croutons, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There’s a reason why Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food – it’s warm, nourishing, and downright delicious. With this recipe, you can recreate that authentic, homemade flavor right in your own kitchen. The secret lies in the rich, flavorful broth and the perfect balance of tender chicken, egg noodles, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re under the weather or just craving a cozy, comforting meal, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is sure to hit the spot. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today and let me know how it turns out!