If you’ve ever craved a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is going to become your new go-to. With tender pieces of chicken, hearty vegetables, and delicate egg noodles all swimming in a fragrant broth, this soup manages to be both nourishing and incredibly satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a starring role in creating a soul-soothing dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings, feeling under the weather, or just whenever you want to treat yourself to a timeless classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering basic, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to bring this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe to life. Each component not only adds layers of flavor but also builds texture and vibrant color to make the soup as beautiful as it is delicious.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a leaner option; both provide tender, flavorful pieces.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the broth when sautéed at the start.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Offer a subtle earthiness and bright orange color that make the soup inviting.
- 2 stalks celery, diced: Bring a mild aromatic crunch that balances the sweetness of the carrots and onions.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuse the soup with a gentle pungency that elevates the overall flavor.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The soul of the soup, providing a rich, savory base.
- 2 cups water: Helps adjust the soup’s consistency and ensures a lighter broth.
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles: Classic addition that tenderly absorbs the flavors and adds comfortable chewiness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, fresh finish and vibrant green contrast.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers a subtle herbal note that makes the soup memorable.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base Vegetables
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add a splash of oil and toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots slightly soften, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step develops a rich foundation for the soup and lets the vegetables release their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs
Next, stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. This brief step infuses the broth with subtle herbal and aromatic notes, enhancing the depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and gently stir to combine. Allow the chicken to brown slightly on the outside as it begins cooking, about 3 to 4 minutes. This ensures the meat stays tender and juicy later, while also adding a bit of savory caramelization to the soup’s flavor profile.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Water
Pour the 8 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water over the chicken and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This slow simmer allows all the ingredients to meld, enriching the broth and ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Add Noodles
Once the broth has developed, stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cook uncovered for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Adding the noodles at this stage ensures they perfectly soak up the flavorful broth without becoming limp.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Seasoning
Finally, mix in the chopped fresh parsley to bring an inviting brightness to the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final touch balances all the flavors and makes your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe truly shine.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper on top can elevate your bowl of soup both visually and flavor-wise. For a bit of richness, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a splash of lemon juice for a subtle zing that heightens the broth’s freshness.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or homemade crackers for dipping into that delicious broth. A simple green salad dressed lightly is also a fantastic side that complements the hearty, comforting nature of the soup without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl—this adds a rustic charm that’s sure to impress guests. Another idea is to ladle the soup into small cups or mugs for a cozy appetizer or snack option during gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will maintain its best quality for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, especially if you keep the noodles separate before freezing to avoid sogginess. Freeze the broth, chicken, and vegetables in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook fresh noodles to toss in after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly warm the soup. If you froze the noodles separately, cook them fresh and add just before serving to preserve their texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that can save cooking time. Just add shredded rotisserie meat during the final few minutes of cooking so it warms through without drying out.
What type of noodles work best in this soup?
Traditional egg noodles are classic, but any small pasta like ditalini or small shells can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this soup gluten free?
Simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles for a lighter version. Be mindful of the broth ingredients if purchasing pre-made to ensure they are gluten free.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute the chicken with tofu cubes or hearty mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian adaptation.
How long does it take to prepare Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
The entire process, from prep to finish, takes about 40 minutes. It’s a relatively quick recipe that comes together fast enough for weeknight dinners yet comforting enough to feel like homemade soul food.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the warm, inviting aroma of a homemade bowl when it comes to soothing both body and soul. This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl that’s easy to make and endlessly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite comfort food!
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Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish made with tender chicken pieces, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. Perfect for warming up on cold days or soothing a sore throat, this soup combines the wholesome goodness of carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs in a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Seasonings
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Dice the onion, peel and dice the carrots, and dice the celery. Mince the garlic cloves and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and sauté the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This build-up of flavor is the foundation of the soup.
- Add chicken and liquids: Add the cut chicken pieces to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to turn white. Then pour in the chicken broth and water, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are fully covered.
- Season and simmer: Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Add noodles and parsley: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or according to package instructions, until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving for a fresh herbal finish.
- Adjust seasonings and serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Notes
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs; thighs will give a richer flavor and juicier texture.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or cook uncovered to let some liquid evaporate.
- Egg noodles are traditional, but you can substitute with other pasta types or gluten-free noodles if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the flavor.
