Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting and nutritious classic that warms the soul. This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with family and friends. It’s loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of creating your own wholesome soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup on the table in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for the whole family.
• Customizable Flavor: Easily adjust spices and herbs to suit your personal taste preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The tender noodles and savory broth are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential kitchen tools before you dive into this recipe. Having everything at hand will help streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for simmering your soup ingredients together to develop rich flavors.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Helps you slice through ingredients quickly and safely for faster preparation.

Ingredients

Homemade chicken noodle soup is healthy and nutritious classic soup loaded with chicken and vegetables.

For the Broth

• 8-9 cups homemade chicken stock
• 2 tbsp canola oil

For the Vegetables

• 1 yellow onion
• 2 long celery ribs
• 2 medium carrots
• 4 garlic cloves

For the Chicken

• 2-3 cups cooked chicken meat (saved from cooking stock)

Seasonings and Herbs

• salt
• fresh cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh minced parsley
• 1 tbsp fresh minced dill weed
• 1/2-1 lemon – juice only

For the Noodles

• 8 oz wide egg noodles

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the canola oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the vegetables are softened, add minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in Chicken Stock

Next, carefully pour in your homemade chicken stock. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken

After reaching a boil, add cooked chicken meat into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Season Your Soup

Season with salt, fresh cracked black pepper, minced parsley, minced dill weed, and squeeze lemon juice into the broth. Adjust seasoning according to taste.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Add wide egg noodles to the boiling broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once noodles are cooked through, taste one last time for seasoning adjustments. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Serving chicken noodle soup is all about enhancing the comforting flavors of this classic dish. There are plenty of ways to present it that can make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Dill Sprigs: Garnish with dill sprigs for a fragrant touch, complementing the soup’s flavors.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the warm broth.
• Garlic Bread: Offer garlic bread as a delightful side that pairs well with the hearty soup.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, making it a perfect companion.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

In a Fun Presentation

• Bread Bowls: For an interesting twist, serve chicken noodle soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible serving option.
• Mason Jars: Present individual servings in mason jars for a rustic look at gatherings or casual dinners.

How to Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect chicken noodle soup requires attention to detail and a few handy tips.

• Use Homemade Stock: Homemade chicken stock enhances flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
• Cook Vegetables First: Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the broth builds depth in flavor.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper levels gradually for better control over seasoning.
• Add Noodles Last: Incorporate noodles towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and vegetables for brighter flavors that elevate your soup.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Pairing your chicken noodle soup with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic make for a tasty accompaniment.
2. Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese or cheese toasties provide gooey goodness that complements the soup perfectly.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers add a nutritious element alongside the comforting soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional texture and flavor to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with broth-based dishes.
6. Coleslaw: A light coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the warmth of chicken noodle soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Homemade chicken noodle soup is simple, but there are common missteps that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using low-quality stock: A rich homemade chicken stock enhances the soup’s flavor. Always opt for fresh or well-prepared stock instead of store-bought versions.
• Overcooking the noodles: Noodles can become mushy if overcooked in the soup. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoned soup lacks depth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for a better flavor.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavors. Don’t skip them; instead, chop and add parsley and dill right before serving for freshness.
• Not using enough vegetables: Veggies provide nutrients and flavor. Ensure you use a balanced mix of carrots, celery, and onion for a hearty base.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Chicken noodle soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

• You can freeze chicken noodle soup for up to 2-3 months.
• Divide it into portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until hot.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reaches your desired temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of chicken for Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

For this recipe, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs works best as they are tender and cook quickly.

Can I use frozen vegetables in my Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient option. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

How do I make my Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles instead of regular egg noodles. Check your stock for gluten-free ingredients as well.

How long does Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe last?

When properly stored, chicken noodle soup lasts for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-3 months when frozen.

Can I customize my Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different veggies like peas or corn or incorporate spices such as thyme or bay leaves for added flavor.

Conclusion

This chicken noodle soup recipe is a nourishing delight that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize with various vegetables and herbs according to your taste. Give it a try; you’re sure to enjoy its comforting flavors!

---