Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this comforting and hearty Chicken Noodle Soup recipe that will remind you of home. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, flavorful broth, this dish is ideal for cozy nights or when you're feeling under the weather. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, it's a classic favorite that brings the whole family together.
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a family heirloom that has warmed hearts for generations. It brings back memories of chilly evenings where the whole family gathered around the table to enjoy a steaming bowl of soup.
The Comfort of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup has long been considered a comforting staple, often associated with home-cooked meals that evoke warmth and care. This dish is not just about the ingredients; it's about the memories created around the table. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a day when you need a mood boost, a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup helps lift spirits and nourish the soul.
What makes this Chicken Noodle Soup truly special is its balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and soft, hearty noodles create a symphony of tastes that combine in each spoonful. Beyond its deliciousness, this soup is versatile. You can easily swap ingredients based on seasonal produce or your family's preferences, making it an adaptable recipe for any occasion.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and overall health. The vegetables present in this recipe, such as carrots and celery, are rich in vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal that can bolster your immune system.
Moreover, homemade chicken broth is known for its health benefits, particularly when it comes to hydration and soothing sore throats, making it an ideal meal during flu season. The combination of wholesome ingredients ensures that each bowl of soup is not just comforting but also a beneficial choice for your diet.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the great things about this Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is its flexibility for meal prep. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week, store it in individual portions, and easily reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner. This not only saves time but also ensures you always have a healthy meal on hand, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish anytime you're short on time. Just be sure to leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze it; you can cook fresh noodles when you're ready to reheat the soup, ensuring they retain their texture and don’t become mushy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to adjust the broth according to the number of servings you'd like!
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Chicken
Stir in minced garlic and shredded chicken, then cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in Broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add egg noodles.
Cook Noodles and Season
Cook the noodles for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!
How to Customize Your Soup
Customizing your chicken noodle soup can be a fun way to experiment in the kitchen. Want some extra greens? Add spinach or kale for a nutrient boost. Prefer a different protein? Turkey or even tofu can work well. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to cater it to your taste.
If you're looking for a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. You can also switch up the herbs; while fresh parsley is a classic garnish, thyme or dill can bring unique flavor profiles to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serving your chicken noodle soup with crusty bread or a side salad can elevate your meal experience. A warm, toasted baguette complements the soup perfectly, ideal for dipping into the rich broth. On the other hand, a light salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty soup.
If you want to impress, consider topping your soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving. This can add an extra layer of flavor and richness that takes the dish to a whole new level.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just ensure it is cooked thoroughly before shredding.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and hearty Chicken Noodle Soup recipe that will remind you of home. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, flavorful broth, this dish is ideal for cozy nights or when you're feeling under the weather. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, it's a classic favorite that brings the whole family together.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and shredded chicken, then cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add egg noodles.
Cook the noodles for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g