Healing Chicken Noodle Soup
Introduction
Chicken noodle soup. Just reading those words can instantly conjure up a feeling of comfort and warmth. The Healing Chicken Noodle Soup recipe from Jam Jar Kitchen is a revelation for those in search of a wholesome, flavorful, and soothing meal. Perfect for chilly days, times of illness, or simply when you’re craving a little nourishment for your soul, this recipe combines time-tested ingredients with simple preparation.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
This recipe features a blend of classic and fresh ingredients that come together harmoniously. Here’s what you need to bring this Healing Chicken Noodle Soup to life:
– Olive oil
– Chopped onion
– Minced garlic cloves
– Sliced celery stalks
– Peeled and chopped carrots
– Fresh grated ginger
– Cooked and shredded chicken
– Egg noodles
– Low-sodium chicken broth
– Water
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Lemon juice
– Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Prep Time
With a focus on simplicity, this Healing Chicken Noodle Soup doesn’t take long to prepare. The process of chopping vegetables, shredding chicken, and combining the ingredients will have your kitchen filling up with an irresistible aroma. It’s the ultimate quick-fix recipe that still manages to feel luxurious and comforting.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for this heavenly soup is beautifully practical. After preparing the ingredients, the total cooking and simmering together to create the perfect fusion of flavors doesn’t take overly long. An ideal recipe for serving a small, hungry family or keeping leftovers for reheating on the next day.
Making a bowl of this Healing Chicken Noodle Soup from scratch is not only a therapeutic experience but also a commitment to self-care and nourishment. Rich with vibrant vegetables, aromatic spices, and warm broth, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the chicken
1. Place chicken breasts into a large pot with stock, water, and bay leaves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly before shredding or chopping into smaller pieces. Set aside for later.
Prepare the base of the soup
1. In the same pot, add olive oil and turn to medium heat.
2. Add chopped yellow onion, celery, and carrots. Saute for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become slightly softened.
Add the garlic and seasonings
1. Stir in minced garlic, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
Return chicken and add noodles
1. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
2. Add in the uncooked egg noodles and stir to distribute them evenly.
3. Let the noodles cook according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until tender.
Finalize the soup
1. Once the noodles are cooked, turn off the heat.
2. Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, reserving some parsley for garnish if desired.
3. Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning to your preference.
Notes
Substituting the chicken
You can use already-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Simply skip the first step and add the pre-cooked chicken when adding noodles.
Optional vegetables
Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Add these toward the end so they don’t overcook.
Storing and reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave for convenience.
Gluten-free option
Substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free noodles if needed. Cook them separately and stir them into the soup when serving to avoid them becoming too soft.
Freezing instructions
This soup can be frozen without the noodles for up to 3 months. When reheating, add freshly cooked noodles to avoid them absorbing too much liquid during freezing.
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Cook Techniques
Sautéing Vegetables
To build a flavorful base for the soup, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil or butter until they are soft and translucent. This process extracts and enhances their natural flavors.
Cooking the Chicken
For tender pieces of chicken, simmer chicken thighs or breasts directly in the broth until fully cooked. Removing and shredding the chicken afterwards ensures it is evenly distributed in the soup.
Layering Seasonings
To achieve the best flavor, add salt, pepper, garlic, and other seasonings gradually during the cooking process. This allows the flavors to develop and prevents over-seasoning.
Using Fresh Herbs
Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme towards the end of cooking. This will preserve their vibrant flavor and elevate the soup’s taste.
Cooking the Noodles
Cook the noodles separately and only combine them with the soup when serving. This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy or absorbing too much broth.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken for added convenience. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup toward the end of cooking.
What type of noodles should I use?
Egg noodles are the classic choice for chicken noodle soup, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it is best to freeze the soup without the noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the noodles separate to preserve their texture.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can easily be made in advance. Prepare the base soup and add fresh noodles just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta or noodles and ensure that any broth or stock you use is also gluten-free.
What can I use as a substitute for fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs are not available, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
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Conclusion
This healing chicken noodle soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for colder seasons or when you’re feeling under the weather. Its blend of wholesome ingredients and rich flavors makes it an ideal go-to recipe for both its health benefits and delightful taste. Prepare it for yourself or your loved ones to enjoy a warm and satisfying meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Side of Homemade Crusty Bread
Perfect for dipping into your soup and elevating the entire dining experience.
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