Imagine this: a chilly evening, the kind where the wind howls like it’s auditioning for a horror movie, and all you want is something warm and comforting. Enter Chicken Noodle Soup, the superhero of soups! With its tender chicken pieces swimming in a sea of savory broth, adorned with colorful carrots and celery, this dish doesn’t just warm your belly; it warms your soul. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a cozy hug, enticing everyone to gather around the table in eager anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this spicy jalapeno popper soup recipe.
This recipe isn’t just any old soup; it’s a nostalgic journey back to childhood, where my grandmother would whip up a batch whenever anyone dared to sneeze. I still remember the joy on my mother’s face when I made my first pot—like she had just witnessed a miracle! Perfect for battling colds or simply enjoying on a lazy Sunday afternoon, Chicken Noodle Soup is your go-to comfort food that never disappoints. White chicken chili alternative Slow cooker chili recipe. For more inspiration, check out this hearty wild rice soup recipe recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This delightful Chicken Noodle Soup is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. The rich flavor profile will have you coming back for seconds. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and irresistibly inviting. Enjoy it as is or customize with your favorite veggies; the possibilities are endless! [/info_box]
I remember making this soup one winter night when friends dropped by unexpectedly. They loved it so much that they practically licked their bowls clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Ideal for tenderness and easy shredding; use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for that robust flavor; roasted garlic is fantastic too if you’re feeling adventurous!
Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add sweetness and color; slice them thinly for quick cooking.
Celery Stalks: These add crunch and depth; opt for crunchy stalks to enhance the texture.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor; homemade broth elevates this dish!
Egg Noodles: These are classic in Chicken Noodle Soup; they soak up the broth beautifully.
Dried Thyme: A staple herb that provides an earthy aroma; feel free to substitute with fresh thyme if available.
Bay Leaves: Toss in a couple for added complexity in flavor during cooking.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; use them generously but taste as you go along.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, chop vegetables into small cubes, and mince garlic finely. This sets you up for success!
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute—then toss in diced onions until they turn translucent. The smell will have you salivating!
Add Veggies & Chicken: Stir in carrots and celery next, cooking them until softened—approximately 5 minutes—before adding diced chicken breasts. Cook until no longer pink for safety.
Pour in Broth & Seasonings: Pour in chicken broth along with thyme and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—you’ll love how cozy it smells!
Add Egg Noodles & Simmer Away!: Once boiling, add egg noodles followed by salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and let simmer until noodles are tender—about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.
Serve & Enjoy!: Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired! Enjoy immediately while wrapped in your favorite blanket—it’s pure bliss!
With each spoonful of this Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll find warmth both inside and out. It’s not just food; it’s comfort served in a bowl!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This classic chicken noodle soup recipe warms your soul while being easy to make. It brings comfort with every slurp, and you can personalize it with your favorite veggies. The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making it an instant family favorite. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery for flavor. Then, add chicken and broth before cooking the noodles separately to prevent mushiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free options. Toss in some spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave until hot.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To ensure your chicken noodle soup is top-notch, always use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor. Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be al dente. Taste as you go to perfect seasoning! [/info_box]
Creating this chicken noodle soup recipe brings me back to cozy winter nights spent with family. Everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories while savoring each bowlful, created memories I cherish. Chicken tortellini soup recipe.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken for chicken noodle soup?
Rotisserie chicken soup variation.
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves cooking time significantly.
How do I thicken chicken noodle soup?
Add a cornstarch slurry or a bit of flour mixed with water to thicken your soup.
What herbs work best in chicken noodle soup?
Thyme, parsley, and dill are excellent choices that enhance the flavor beautifully.
Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. This hearty soup features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and egg noodles all simmered in a savory broth that envelops you in warmth. It’s not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic embrace that brings loved ones together at the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by dicing chicken and chopping vegetables.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add onions and cook until translucent. Stir in carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink.
- Pour in chicken broth along with thyme and bay leaves; bring to a gentle boil.
- Add egg noodles, salt, and pepper to taste. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
