Few dishes can rival the heartwarming comfort of a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re battling a cold, warming up on a chilly day, or simply craving something wholesome and delicious, this classic recipe has you covered. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, this homemade chicken noodle soup is a must-try. Let’s get cooking!
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Tools Needed, Servings, and Cooking Time
Tools Needed:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps to Make the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, mince the garlic, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, water, chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, and thyme. Stir well to mix the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil and Simmer
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and the chicken to cook through, infusing the broth with flavor.
Step 4: Add the Egg Noodles
Stir in the uncooked egg noodles and let them cook in the simmering soup for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember to taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade chicken noodle soup!
Recommendations for Recipe Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables, herbs, and chicken enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the noodles at the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Customize with Add-Ins: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, peas, or corn for added variety.
- Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth makes a significant difference in flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
- Add a side salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, tangy finish.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the noodles) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat, adding fresh noodles when reheating.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken? A: Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through.
Q2: Can I make this soup gluten-free? A: Absolutely. Substitute gluten-free noodles and ensure the chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
Q3: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? A: Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley as a substitute for fresh.
Q4: How do I make the soup richer in flavor? A: Simmer the soup with a bay leaf or a splash of white wine for added depth of flavor.
Q5: Can I use frozen vegetables? A: Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Add them directly to the simmering soup and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth, nourishment, and a touch of nostalgia in every spoonful. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or soothing moments when you need a little extra care. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready to delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!
