Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Introduction
If there is one dish that screams warmth, love, and comfort in every spoonful, it is chicken noodle soup. It’s a classic recipe passed down through generations, and for good reason – it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. This chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for when you need a cozy bowl of goodness, whether it’s to fight off a cold or enjoy a hearty meal on a chilly day. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that bring both nourishment and incredible flavors together.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Chicken breast
Approximately 2 medium-sized, cooked and shredded
Carrots
2 medium-sized, thinly sliced
Celery
2 stalks, chopped
Onion
1 medium-sized, finely chopped
Garlic cloves
3 cloves, minced
Chicken broth
8 cups
Dried thyme
1 teaspoon
Dried parsley
1 teaspoon
Salt
To taste
Pepper
To taste
Wide egg noodles
About 2 cups, uncooked
Olive oil
1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley
Chopped, for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
Preparing this soup is quick and straightforward. The prep time for this recipe is about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your fresh ingredients, chopping vegetables, and ensuring all elements are ready for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this chicken noodle soup is approximately 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. The total time, including preparation and cooking, amounts to 40 minutes – a short span for such a delightful and hearty dish. This recipe yields four to six servings, making it the perfect choice for a family meal or to have leftovers for the next day.
A Perfect Comfort Dish
This classic chicken noodle soup recipe is the ultimate go-to when you’re looking to indulge in a meal that is both comforting and nutritious. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, it ticks all the boxes for a wholesome meal that’ll warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of a hearty treat, this easy recipe is all you need. It’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire, bringing comfort to the table time and again.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Chop your vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery into small, evenly sized pieces. Mince the garlic to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the soup.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, then sauté them for about 4-5 minutes or until the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or two to release its aroma.
Step 3: Add Broth and Chicken
Pour the chicken broth or stock into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Place uncooked chicken thighs or breasts into the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid. Add bay leaves as well for added flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook thoroughly and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the soup pot.
Step 6: Add Noodles
Add egg noodles or your preferred type of pasta to the pot. Cook the noodles in the soup according to the package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, or any additional herbs like parsley or thyme according to your preference.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles are fully cooked and the soup is well-seasoned, ladle the soup into bowls. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Noodle Choices
Egg noodles are traditionally used in chicken noodle soup, but you can substitute them with other types of pasta or gluten-free options if desired.
Note 2: Chicken Options
For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken pieces and removing the bones after cooking. You can also use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation time.
Note 3: Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of additional broth to maintain the soup’s consistency, as the noodles might absorb liquid over time.
Note 4: Adding Vegetables
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added variety and nutrition in your soup.
Note 5: Freezing the Soup
If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the noodles. Noodles can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Simply add fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve the soup.
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Cook Techniques
Prepare the Ingredients
Before starting, ensure all your ingredients are chopped, diced, and ready to go. Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion should be uniformly cut to ensure even cooking.
Sauté Vegetables
Use a large pot or Dutch oven to sauté your aromatic vegetables until they soften and become fragrant. This step lays the foundation for your soup’s flavor.
Simmer the Broth
Pour in your chicken stock or broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the flavors of the vegetables and broth to meld together over low heat.
Add the Chicken
Incorporate cooked shredded chicken into the pot. Let it heat through while absorbing some of the broth’s flavor.
Cook the Noodles
Add the noodles towards the end of the cooking process to avoid any sogginess. Cook until tender but still firm to the bite.
Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, such as salt and pepper, to suit your preferences.
FAQ
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Using pre-cooked shredded chicken such as rotisserie chicken is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness and flavor, but any cooked chicken will work.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute the noodles with egg noodles, pasta, or even a gluten-free variety, depending on your preference.
How can I make this soup more flavorful?
To boost the flavor, try adding fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or rosemary, and ensure you’re using a high-quality chicken broth.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to omit the noodles beforehand and add freshly cooked ones when reheating to avoid sogginess.
How long will this soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
What can I serve with chicken noodle soup?
Pair the soup with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Conclusion
Chicken noodle soup stands as a timeless and comforting dish that brings warmth, nourishment, and joy to any table. Its classic combination of tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and flavorful broth showcases simplicity at its best, delivering a home-cooked meal that resonates with both tradition and taste. This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, making it an ideal choice for family meals, cozy nights, or even when you’re feeling under the weather. Enjoy every spoonful of this classic dish that continues to be a favorite across generations.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Add diversity to your meals by trying a creamy twist on the traditional chicken soup. Combining tender chicken with wild rice and a velvety broth is sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Herb-Infused Chicken and Vegetable Medley
Transform your soup by incorporating fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley to create exciting flavor dimensions. Pair it with a variety of bright vegetables for a fresh and aromatic experience.
Zesty Lemon Chicken Soup
Brighten up your soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and the zest for an invigorating, tangy option perfect for lighter meals or springtime gatherings.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Elevate your chicken soup by adding a Southwestern flair. Include ingredients like black beans, corn, and spices, and top it off with crunchy tortilla strips.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Noodles
Take your noodle soup on an exciting global journey by incorporating ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and bok choy for a deliciously exotic twist.
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