Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your kitchen with the delightful aroma of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. This comforting classic combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and wholesome egg noodles simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather, this soothing soup is a family favorite that brings everyone together. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, it’s a must-try for any home cook looking for easy and delicious meals.
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is cherished by families everywhere for its comforting taste and heartwarming aroma. Made with love and the freshest ingredients, it serves as a perfect remedy for chilly days.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make
- Healthy and nutritious
- Family-friendly
- Comforting and satisfying
- Perfect for meal prep
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. It's not just the taste; it’s the whole experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers away is enough to remind anyone of home. When the cold weather rolls in or when you're feeling under the weather, a homemade soup like this works wonders. Each spoonful wraps you in warmth, offering not just nutrition but also a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction.
Making Chicken Noodle Soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the tender chicken create a visual feast, setting the stage for a delicious meal. Plus, with just one pot needed, clean-up is a breeze, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken Noodle Soup isn’t just for chilly days or when you're under the weather; it’s a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Host a casual dinner gathering or serve it as a comforting side dish to elevate a simple meal. Its familiar flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Leave it to simmer while you finish up other meal preparations, and your guests will be drawn in by the delicious smells.
Additionally, Chicken Noodle Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Make a large batch over the weekend, and you'll have delicious lunches or quick dinners ready to go during the week. Simply store in individual containers and reheat as needed. This not only saves time but also encourages healthier eating habits.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of Chicken Noodle Soup is its adaptability. Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. Want more protein? Adding diced tofu or chickpeas is a great option. Prefer more greens? Toss in some kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding a bit of rosemary for an aromatic twist or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. Such alterations can transform a classic into something uniquely your own, allowing you to enjoy a completely different experience each time you make it.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started with your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can proceed to the cooking steps.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Chicken Noodle Soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes.
Finish with Chicken and Peas
Stir in the shredded chicken and green peas, and allow to heat through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Your Chicken Noodle Soup is now ready to be served. Enjoy with your favorite bread!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers after enjoying your Chicken Noodle Soup, storing them properly is key to keeping the flavors intact. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or if you'd like to save it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Just remember to leave some headspace in the containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
When it's time to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, feel free to add a bit of chicken broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency.
Nutrition Boosters
Chicken Noodle Soup is naturally a healthy option, packed full of low-fat protein from the chicken and essential vitamins from the vegetables. To enhance its nutritional value further, consider adding some superfoods. A handful of spinach or kale can introduce additional nutrients without altering the flavor significantly. Likewise, incorporating a variety of vegetables increases fiber content and overall health benefits.
If you're looking to reduce the carbs, substitute the egg noodles with whole-grain alternatives or use zucchini noodles. This simple swap can make the dish more suitable for specific dietary preferences while maintaining that comforting essence of homemade soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up your kitchen with the delightful aroma of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. This comforting classic combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and wholesome egg noodles simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather, this soothing soup is a family favorite that brings everyone together. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, it’s a must-try for any home cook looking for easy and delicious meals.
Created by: Aubrey Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup green peas, frozen or fresh
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken and green peas, and allow to heat through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g