Name: Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: Soup Base:; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion; 2 carrots; 2 celery stalks; 3 garlic cloves; 8 cups chicken stock; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp parsley; 1/2 tsp pepper; salt; Chicken:; 1 lb chicken breast; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; Noodles: 6 oz egg noodles; Optional: Parsley (lemon wedges); Suggested Pairings: Bread (salad,)

Introduction

Chicken noodle soup is a timeless comfort food, cherished for its warm, savory broth, tender chicken, and hearty egg noodles. Perfect for cold days, sick days, or cozy family dinners, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it ideal for cooks of all levels. This recipe delivers a classic homemade chicken noodle soup, adaptable for dietary needs, best served hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme leaves (or 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh leaves)
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Noodles:

6 oz wide egg noodles (about 3 cups dry)

For Serving:

Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley leaves
Optional garnish: Lemon wedges for brightness
Suggested Pairings: Crusty bread, saltine crackers, or green salad
Suggested Beverage: Sparkling water

Steps-by-Step Process

Cook: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Build Broth: Pour in chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the pot. Add bay leaves, thyme, parsley, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
Cook Noodles: Add egg noodles to the pot and simmer uncovered for 6-8 minutes, or until al dente (check package instructions). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Combine: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and additional pepper if needed. Remove bay leaves.
Serve: Ladle soup into 6 bowls. Garnish with optional parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot with suggested pairings like crusty bread or a salad, and a beverage like sparkling water.

Tips for Better Chicken Noodle Soup

Use low-sodium stock to control salt levels; homemade stock adds deeper flavor if available.
Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking; smaller pieces cook faster.
Don’t overcook noodles; they’ll continue to soften in the hot stock after cooking.
Shred chicken while warm for easier handling; use thighs for juicier meat.
Add a splash of stock or water when reheating to adjust consistency, as noodles absorb liquid over time.
Taste stock before serving; adjust with salt, pepper, or a pinch of lemon juice for balance.
Make ahead and store without noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy; cook noodles fresh when serving.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching and ensure even heat distribution.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Soup: Use gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles; ensure stock is gluten-free.
Vegan Soup: Omit chicken, use vegetable stock, and add 1 cup diced mushrooms or tofu for protein.
Low-Sodium Soup: Use unsalted stock and reduce added salt; boost flavor with extra herbs or a splash of soy sauce.
Spicy Soup: Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce with the garlic.
Vegetable-Packed Soup: Add 1 cup diced zucchini, green beans, or peas during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Herb-Infused Soup: Add 1 tsp fresh dill or rosemary for a unique flavor twist.
Creamy Soup: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or a slurry of 1 tbsp cornstarch and 1/4 cup water for a thicker texture.
Instant Pot Soup: Sauté vegetables and chicken in Instant Pot, add stock and seasonings, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then quick-release and add noodles to cook on sauté mode for 6 minutes.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; noodles may soften over time.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between; add stock if thickened.
Freeze soup (without noodles) for up to 3 months; cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and thaw in the fridge overnight. Cook fresh noodles when reheating.
Serve hot for maximum comfort; let cool slightly for younger diners.
Use leftovers as a base for casseroles or mix with rice for a hearty bowl.
Avoid leaving at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Pair with a light beverage like lemon water to complement the savory stock.
Serve in deep bowls to keep soup warm longer; offer extra herbs for customization.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (about 1 1/2 cups each, without optional garnishes):

Calories: 280 kcal
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 680mg (varies with stock)
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 22g
Vitamin A: 60% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 8% Daily Value
Calcium: 6% Daily Value
Iron: 10% Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands and optional add-ins. This dish is moderate in calories and high in protein. For dietary needs, try gluten-free or vegan variations. It’s vitamins from vegetables that add nutritional value.

Conclusion

This chicken noodle soup recipe delivers a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from sick days to family gatherings. Its simple preparation and wholesome flavors make it a favorite for home cooks. The tender chicken, hearty noodles, and flavorful stock create a nourishing meal. This recipe is sure to become a go-to, cherished for its simplicity and heartwarming appeal.