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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of homemade Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day. This beloved dish combines tender chunks of chicken, vibrant fresh vegetables, and soothing noodles swimming in a fragrant and flavorful broth, creating the perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a timeless, soul-satisfying meal, this recipe brings all the familiar flavors to your kitchen with ease and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to making this soup unforgettable. Each component plays an essential role: the chicken provides protein and richness, the vegetables add brightness and crunch, and the noodles bring that comforting, chewy texture we all adore. With just a handful of staples you probably already have on hand, this soup comes together with delightful simplicity and incredible flavor.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Use whatever you prefer—breasts for leaner, thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth that forms the backbone of your broth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: They lend natural sweetness and vibrant color to enliven the soup.
- 2 stalks celery, diced: Provides a subtle, earthy crunch that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A small addition that infuses the broth with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The soul of the soup, it creates a savory, comforting base.
- 2 cups water: Helps stretch the broth while keeping flavors light and fresh.
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles: These noodles cook in the broth and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Sprinkled at the end for a bright, herbal finish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy, fragrant note that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring forward every flavor in the soup.
How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add your diced onions, carrots, and celery and sauté them until they become soft and fragrant—this step unlocks their full flavor potential and builds a savory foundation for the soup. Stir in the minced garlic just before they finish cooking, allowing it to release its aromatic essence without burning.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth
Next, add your bite-sized pieces of chicken to the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then sprinkle in the dried thyme. Bringing everything to a gentle simmer allows the chicken to cook tenderly while the broth absorbs all those wonderful flavors, creating the heartwarming base you love.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Let the soup simmer gently for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking melds the ingredients beautifully, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and all the flavors have blended into a delicious, comforting broth that feels like it took hours to make.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Once the chicken and vegetables are tender, stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cook them right in the bubbling broth until they’re perfectly al dente—usually about 7 to 8 minutes. This final step adds that signature nostalgic texture that makes the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe so special.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish the soup with a generous pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley right before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Ladle the soup into your favorite bowls and get ready to dig into a timeless classic that feels like home in every spoonful.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your soup to restaurant-quality comfort food, add garnishes that enhance both flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thyme leaves adds brightness, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the broth’s richness. For an extra touch, freshly cracked black pepper or even a dash of grated Parmesan creates wonderful contrast.
Side Dishes
A bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its warmth. Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide refreshing balance, and for heartier meals, roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next gathering? Serve the soup in charming bread bowls or individual mini casserole dishes for a personal touch. You could also arrange a “soup bar” with toppings like shredded cheese, chopped scallions, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their bowl. These little extras turn a classic favorite into a fun, interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which often happens because this soup is just too good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days, allowing the flavors to intensify even more overnight.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe! For best results, cook the soup without adding the noodles, freeze the broth and chicken mixture in portions, then add fresh noodles when reheating. Frozen soup will last up to 3 months while keeping its comforting flavor intact.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers or thawed frozen soup, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. If the soup feels thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency. Add fresh noodles then let them cook through during reheating for that freshly made feel.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and infuses the soup with added flavor. Just shred the chicken and add it during the last few minutes of simmering to warm through.
What type of noodles work best in this soup?
Traditional egg noodles are ideal because they hold up well in broth without turning mushy. However, feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo if you prefer.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can easily adapt this recipe for a vegetarian diet by substituting vegetable broth and adding hearty mushrooms or tofu in place of the chicken. The herbs and vegetables still create a satisfying flavor.
How do I make the broth more flavorful?
Simmering the chicken with some additional aromatics like bay leaves, whole peppercorns, or fresh herbs can deepen the broth’s flavor. Also, using homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth makes a big difference.
Is it okay to add noodles earlier in the cooking process?
It’s best to add noodles toward the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming overly soft and mushy. Noodles absorb liquid quickly, so adding them last keeps their texture just right.
Final Thoughts
There’s no substitute for a bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe made from scratch—the tender chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful broth come together in a way that’s just pure comfort. I warmly encourage you to try this recipe yourself and discover how a simple combination of humble ingredients can create a heartwarming meal that’s perfect any day of the year.
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Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food that combines tender pieces of chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles in a flavorful homemade broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a soothing meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for family dinners and meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent, releasing their flavors into the base.
- Add Chicken and Liquids: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and stir briefly to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. This step helps develop the rich broth while cooking the chicken thoroughly.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld harmoniously.
- Add the Noodles: Uncover the pot and stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Continue to simmer the soup, uncovered, for an additional 7-8 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still firm to the bite.
- Season and Garnish: Stir in the dried thyme and chopped fresh parsley. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well and cook for another minute to allow the seasoning to blend.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy your comforting classic chicken noodle soup, perfect for any day when you crave a soothing, nourishing meal.
Notes
- You can substitute egg noodles with any other pasta of your choice or even use gluten-free noodles for dietary needs.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or bone broth if available.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, fresh touch.
- To make it a one-pot meal, add diced potatoes or other vegetables like peas or corn.
