easy chicken noodle soup recipe
The Best easy chicken noodle soup recipe
I love this recipe because it’s flexible enough to fit into any day, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch. The broth is light but rich, the chicken is tender, and the noodles soak up all the goodness. Plus, it’s loaded with veggies, so I feel good about serving it to my family. It’s one of those meals that just makes the house smell like home, and honestly, that’s half the reason we all love it so much. If you’re looking for a go-to soup that’s nourishing, satisfying, and always a hit, this is the one.
Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
A comforting and quick homemade chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a soothing meal. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, this recipe comes together in under an hour.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups egg noodles (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. -
2
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. -
3
Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts, thyme, dried parsley, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. -
4
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). -
5
Remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks. -
6
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the egg noodles. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. -
7
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf and discard it. -
8
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
🔧Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking to warm through. This also adds extra flavor from the seasoned chicken.
2. How long does this chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
This soup will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. The noodles may absorb some broth over time, so you can add a little extra chicken broth or water when reheating to thin it out if needed.
3. Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to omit the noodles before freezing, as they can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the broth and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Cook fresh noodles separately when ready to serve and add them to the reheated soup.
4. What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use rice noodles, pasta (like small shells or macaroni), or even ditalini. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta or rice. Adjust cooking times based on the package instructions for the noodles you choose.
5. How can I make this soup thicker or heartier?
To make the soup thicker, you can:
– Mash a few cooked carrots or potatoes into the broth.
– Stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water and simmer until thickened.
– Add a handful of uncooked rice or barley and cook until tender.
For extra heartiness, add diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or extra veggies like celery or mushrooms.
