Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting hot dish made with tender chicken, soft noodles, and tasty vegetables in a warm broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling a little under the weather.
I like to add a little extra pepper or lemon for a bright touch. Sometimes I sneak in a spoonful of hot sauce just to make it more exciting!
For an easy tip, I freeze leftovers in small containers. That way, I can enjoy a cozy bowl anytime without all the cooking again.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer thighs for more flavor, but breasts are leaner. If you’re low on time, rotisserie chicken works great—just shred and add! Sub with cooked turkey or tofu for a different twist.
Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles add a soft, hearty bite. I like wide egg noodles, but thin ones work too. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid over-softening.
Chicken Broth: Rich and flavorful, I use low-sodium broth to control salt. It’s easy to swap with vegetable or even homemade broth for extra depth. For a quick fix, broth concentrate mixed with water works well.
Vegetables: The common choice is carrots, celery, and onion for flavor and texture. I suggest chopping them small so they cook faster and blend nicely. Frozen diced vegetables save prep time—just add straight from the bag.
Herbs & Seasonings: Garlic, salt, and pepper are essential. Fresh garlic adds great aroma; I recommend mincing it finely. Dried thyme or parsley can brighten the dish. Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender in the soup?
Coat chicken briefly in oil, then add to boiling broth. Boil gently over medium heat—avoid high heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until no longer pink. Remove chicken, let it rest for a few minutes, then shred. This keeps it juicy and tender.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 mins, Cooking: 30 mins, Total: 40 mins
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove, let cool slightly, then shred or dice.
2. Sauté vegetables
Add remaining olive oil to the pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broth and chicken
Pour in chicken broth. Return cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Cook noodles
Add egg noodles to the soup. Cook according to package instructions, usually 7-8 minutes, until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley if you like. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup.
