Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

This homemade chicken noodle soup is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. It’s great for cold days or when you’re not feeling well. It’s made with tender chicken, hearty veggies, and egg noodles in a rich broth.

This recipe is ready in just 30-40 minutes. It’s easy and convenient. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick, nourishing dinner, this easy recipe hits the spot.

Key Takeaways

Homemade chicken noodle soup ready in just 30-40 minutes
Features tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a rich, savory broth
Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather
Uses rotisserie chicken for enhanced flavor and convenience
Comforting and nourishing classic comfort food dish

Introduction to Classic Comfort Food

Chicken noodle soup has been a favorite in American homes for years. This homemade version is quick and tastes great, perfect for busy nights or cold winter days. It’s ready in just 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This chicken noodle soup uses top-quality, wholesome ingredients. It has tender chicken and a flavorful broth, making it a comforting and satisfying experience. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a quick recipe or a comfort food classic.

Time-Saving Benefits

Preparing a homemade meal can be hard in today’s fast world. This chicken noodle soup makes it easy, offering the taste of homemade food without long prep times. Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time, so you can enjoy a nutritious soup quickly.

Health Benefits and Nutrition

This chicken noodle soup is not just tasty; it’s also healthy. It has lean chicken, fresh veggies, and homemade broth, packed with nutrients. It’s a great choice for a balanced diet, offering protein, vitamins, and minerals with every serving.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

Making a delicious chicken noodle soup starts with the right ingredients. At its core, a few key components make the dish stand out. Let’s explore the must-haves for the perfect homemade chicken noodle soup.

The soup’s base is chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease or fresh chicken for a homemade touch. The chicken broth, preferably low-sodium, is essential for flavor.

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken Broth	12 cups
Rotisserie Chicken (or Cooked Chicken)	3 cups, shredded
Egg Noodles	2 cups, uncooked
Onion	1 large, diced
Carrots	3 medium, sliced
Celery	3 stalks, sliced
Garlic	3 cloves, minced
Herbs (Thyme, Oregano, Parsley)	2 tbsp, chopped
Bay Leaves	2
Olive Oil	2 tbsp
Salt and Pepper	To taste

The onions, carrots, and celery form the aromatic base. Garlic, herbs, and bay leaves add unique flavors. Egg noodles add texture and heartiness.

With these ingredients, you can make a comforting chicken noodle soup. It will warm your soul and please your taste buds. By mixing the right flavors and textures, you’ll create a dish loved by all.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make delicious homemade chicken noodle soup, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A large soup pot or Dutch oven is key for cooking the broth and chicken. You’ll also need a sharp knife for chopping veggies and a wooden spoon for stirring.

Essential Cookware

Large stock pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity)
Sharp chef’s knife for vegetable prep
Wooden spoon for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons

Optional Helpful Tools

Soup ladle for serving
Airtight storage containers for leftovers
Skimmer for removing foam from the broth

With these kitchen tools, making homemade chicken noodle soup is easy. Whether you use a soup pot or a Dutch oven, the right tools make cooking simple.

Preparing the Base: Vegetables and Aromatics

The heart of a tasty chicken noodle soup is its aromatic vegetable base. Start by sautéing diced onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery in a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. This mix, known as mirepoix, adds sweetness and flavor to the broth.

After the sautéed vegetables soften, add minced garlic. Garlic’s aroma will boost the soup’s flavor. Cook until the garlic smells great, but don’t let it burn.

Ingredient	Quantity
Extra-virgin olive oil	1 tablespoon
Onion, diced	1/2 yellow onion
Carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick coins	5 medium carrots
Celery, thinly sliced	5 stalks
Garlic, grated	2 cloves

By carefully preparing this aromatic vegetable base, you’ll make a flavorful foundation. This step is crucial for a rich, full soup.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Choosing the right chicken is key to making great chicken noodle soup. Rotisserie chicken is a top pick for its convenience and flavor. The slow-roasting process makes the meat rich and savory, perfect for the soup.

Rotisserie Chicken Tips

Using a rotisserie chicken saves you time in the kitchen. Just pull the meat off the bones and cut it into small pieces. You can also use the bones to make a tasty homemade stock for your soup.

Alternative Chicken Options

Leftover cooked chicken: If you have leftover chicken, it’s easy to add it to the soup.
Raw chicken: For a more hands-on option, use raw chicken breasts or thighs. Add them to the broth and cook until done, then shred or dice.

Proper Preparation Methods

It’s crucial to prepare the chicken right, no matter your choice. Cut the chicken into small pieces for easy eating. If using raw chicken, cook it in the broth first. This ensures the soup is full of chicken flavor.

“The key to a truly satisfying chicken noodle soup is the right balance of tender chicken, savory broth, and perfectly cooked noodles.”

Chicken Noodle Soup Broth Basics

Making a tasty homemade chicken broth is key to a great chicken noodle soup. While store-bought broth is easy, homemade stock adds a special touch. It brings out rich, comforting flavors.

To make your own broth, start with chicken bones from a rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken. Add onions, carrots, celery, and herbs. Simmer for 45 minutes to an hour. This makes a flavorful homemade chicken broth.

For a quicker fix, you can improve store-bought soup stock. Just add a tablespoon or two of “Better Than Bouillon” paste or a bouillon cube. This trick instantly adds depth and a homemade taste to your broth.

Season the broth with salt, pepper, and herbs or spices to taste. The goal is a savory broth that’s the base of your chicken noodle soup.

Ingredient	Cost
2 split chicken breasts, bone-in	$6.64
6 oz. egg noodles	$1.00
1 onion, diced	$0.50
3 cloves garlic, minced	$0.30
2 carrots, peeled and sliced	$0.60
2 stalks celery, sliced	$0.40

“The secret to a truly exceptional chicken noodle soup is in the broth. Taking the time to build a flavorful, homemade stock is well worth the effort.”

By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious homemade chicken broth. This will help you create the ultimate chicken noodle soup. It’s sure to warm your heart and soothe your soul.

Best Noodle Options and Cooking Techniques

Choosing the right noodles is key to making great chicken noodle soup. Wide egg noodles are a classic choice. But, other pasta options can also be great in this comforting dish.

Types of Noodles

Egg Noodles: The classic choice, wide egg noodles provide a rich, satisfying texture that absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully.
Farfalle (Bow-Tie Pasta): These small, bowtie-shaped noodles add a playful element to the soup, with their ability to scoop up both broth and chicken.
Elbow Macaroni: These compact, curved noodles are a fun alternative, perfect for capturing the essence of the soup in each bite.
Rotini: The spiral shape of rotini noodles provides an interesting textural contrast, while still complementing the overall flavor profile.

Cooking Time Guidelines

It’s important to cook noodles right to keep them perfect in the soup. Add noodles to boiling broth and cook until they’re al dente. This way, they won’t get mushy. For soups you make ahead, cook noodles separately to keep them firm.

“The best type of noodles for chicken noodle soup are wide egg noodles, providing richness and convenience by absorbing flavors directly in the soup.”

Try different noodles and learn how to cook them well. This will make your homemade chicken noodle soup even better.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making homemade chicken noodle soup is a fun and rewarding task. Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in a big pot or Dutch oven. This step is key to making the soup’s broth flavorful.

Next, add your preferred chicken broth, whether homemade or store-bought. Bring it to a boil. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer. This step takes 20-25 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften and the flavors to blend.

Sauté the aromatic vegetables in a large pot or Dutch oven.
Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Add the noodles of your choice and continue simmering until they are cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Gently stir in the cooked chicken and fresh herbs, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
Serve the delicious homemade chicken noodle soup and enjoy!

After the veggies are soft, it’s time to add the noodles. Choose your favorite, like egg noodles, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Then, add the cooked chicken and herbs like parsley or thyme. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and your homemade chicken noodle soup is ready to enjoy.

Nutritional Information (per serving)	Value
Calories	206 kcal
Carbohydrates	19 g
Protein	18 g
Fat	7 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Cholesterol	54 mg
Sodium	620 mg
Potassium	435 mg
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	4 g
Vitamin A	3594 IU
Vitamin C	5 mg
Calcium	52 mg
Iron	1 mg

This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is easy to follow. It ensures a delicious and comforting meal. By following these steps, you can make a nourishing bowl of soup for any occasion.

Seasoning and Herbs Guide

Improving a classic chicken noodle soup’s taste is about finding the right mix of herbs and seasonings. This soup herbs guide helps you balance seasoning tips carefully. This way, each ingredient can add its special flavor enhancers to the soup.

Essential Herbs

Three fresh herbs – thyme, oregano, and parsley – are the base of this comforting soup. Thyme and oregano bring earthy, minty and woody scents to the broth. Parsley adds a fresh, grassy taste. Don’t miss the bay leaf, which adds a unique depth of flavor.

Seasoning Balance Tips

Start with a light hand when adding salt and pepper. You can always add more, but it’s difficult to correct over-seasoning.
A splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice at the end brightens the soup without making it overly tart or lemony.
Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasonings gradually until you achieve the perfect balance of savory, herbaceous, and slightly acidic flavors.

With a little care and attention to the seasoning tips, your homemade chicken noodle soup will become a comforting, flavor-packed bowl of goodness that will satisfy the soul.

Storage and Freezing Methods

Chicken noodle soup is a favorite comfort food that can last for days. To keep it fresh and tasty, it’s important to store it right. Once it’s cooled down, put it in airtight containers or bags and refrigerate for 4-5 days.

Chicken noodle soup also freezes well. Cool it down first, then put it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space for it to expand. This way, your soup can stay good for up to 6 months in the freezer.

Freezing tip: Store the noodles separately. This keeps them from getting too soft or mushy when you reheat the soup. Cook the noodles fresh on the day you plan to eat the soup.

Storage Method	Shelf Life
Refrigerator	4-5 days
Freezer	Up to 6 months

By following these easy tips, you can enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup whenever you want. Whether you’re stocking up your fridge or freezer, these methods keep your soup fresh and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that pairs well with many side dishes. It’s great for a hearty meal or a lighter side. Check out tasty options to enhance your soup experience.

For a classic choice, serve the soup with crusty bread, saltine crackers, or homemade rolls. For a bigger meal, try it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a fresh salad. Add fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor and a nice look.

Side Dish Ideas

Kale Caesar Salad
Crostini
Arugula Salad
Cherry Tomato Salad
Erewhon Kale White Bean Salad
Italian Chopped Salad
Sautéed Spinach
Italian Radicchio Salad
Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad
Sautéed Zucchini and Squash
Grilled Bell Peppers
Fennel and Chickpea Salad
Shirazi Salad
Tomato Cucumber Salad
Grilled Broccolini
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts with Balsamic
Olive Spread
Grilled Artichokes
Sunchokes
Fennel Celery Salad
Garlic Bread

For a filling meal, try the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich, potato puffs, or pigs in a blanket. These add extra substance to your meal.

Chicken noodle soup goes well with many sides, from bread to veggies. Try different combinations to find the best match for your soup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Making homemade chicken noodle soup can be rewarding, but sometimes you might face issues. Here are some tips to help your soup turn out perfectly every time.

Broth Clarity Problems

If your soup broth looks cloudy or murky, there are easy fixes. Start by straining the soup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. This removes any impurities or sediment.

Also, skim off any foam or scum that forms during cooking. This keeps your broth clear and transparent.

Noodle Texture Solutions

Getting the right noodle texture in chicken noodle soup can be tricky. To avoid mushy noodles, cook them separately and add them just before serving. This keeps them al dente.

If your soup is too thick, add more broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.

Lastly, adjust the seasoning as needed for a balanced and flavorful soup. A bit more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs can make a big difference.

“The key to great soup is in the details – from the clarity of the broth to the texture of the noodles. With a little troubleshooting, you can master the art of chicken noodle soup perfection.”

Conclusion

This easy homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for busy days. It’s quick to make and tastes homemade. You can also make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients.

Studies show that chicken soup is good for you. It helps with inflammation and congestion. It also keeps you hydrated and boosts your mood.

Looking for a quick, healthy meal? Or just want something comforting? This chicken noodle soup recipe is the answer. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with health benefits. It’s the perfect mix of homemade soup benefits, comfort food recipe, and easy cooking.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in this chicken noodle soup recipe?

The main ingredients are chicken, preferably rotisserie for taste and ease. You’ll also need vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots. Don’t forget chicken broth, egg noodles, and herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.