There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm, comforting embrace. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken swimming in a rich broth, with noodles that are just the right amount of chewy, and vibrant veggies peeking through like they’re ready to party. hearty comfort food options It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights or when you just need a little TLC.
I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a rainy Sunday afternoon. My kids were running around like caffeinated squirrels, and I needed something to calm the chaos. As the soup bubbled away on the stove, I could already hear the “oohs” and “aahs” from my family. They didn’t even wait for it to cool down before diving in! This soup promises not just flavor but also endless smiles and warmth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The robust flavor will keep your taste buds dancing long after your last spoonful
- With its colorful ingredients, this soup is as visually appealing as it is delicious
- Versatile enough to use leftover chicken or vegetables, this recipe adapts to what you have on hand effortlessly
I still chuckle when I think about how my youngest insisted on “helping” me, which meant throwing noodles everywhere but into the pot!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crew’s appetite.
- Carrots: Use fresh carrots for sweetness; slice them thin for quicker cooking.
- Celery: Crisp and refreshing; it adds crunch and depth to the soup. refreshing salad option.
- Onion: A medium onion adds wonderful flavor; chop finely for even distribution.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the broth; don’t skip this fragrant gem!
- Egg Noodles: Choose wide egg noodles for heartiness; they soak up flavors beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your soup.
- Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy note; feel free to adjust based on preference.
- Pepper and Salt: Essential seasoning; add according to taste for a balanced flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and dice your veggies into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Sauté Your Veggies: In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become aromatic—about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Chicken: Stir in minced garlic followed by diced chicken. Cook until chicken turns white on all sides—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add chicken broth along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring occasionally.
Add Noodles and Simmer Away!: Once boiling, add egg noodles to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer until noodles are cooked—around 8-10 minutes should do it.
Taste Test & Serve Up!: Before serving, taste your soup one last time; adjust seasonings if necessary. Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately while it’s hot!
This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience! Whether you’re chasing away chills or simply craving something cozy, this delightful dish will be your go-to comfort food throughout any season. similar comforting chicken soup Happy cooking! For more inspiration, check out this Mexican Corn Chicken Soup recipe.
You Must Know
- Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup brings comfort and warmth, transforming your kitchen into a cozy haven
- The aroma of simmering chicken fills the air, making it impossible to resist
- Perfect for chilly nights, this dish warms both the heart and soul
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken and broth. Cook until tender, then stir in veggies and noodles for optimal flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to elevate flavor without added calories.
Storing & Reheating
Store soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best chicken flavor, use bone-in pieces
- Avoid overcooking noodles; they become mushy when reheated
- Fresh vegetables enhance nutrition and texture, making your soup more vibrant
Cooking this homemade chicken noodle soup always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter echoed alongside simmering pots. perfect side for soup It’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together, even on a rainy day.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great in homemade chicken noodle soup.
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
Pasta alternatives like rice noodles or quinoa can be delicious substitutes in this soup. For more inspiration, check out this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup recipe.
How can I make it low-sodium?
Use low-sodium broth and season to taste with herbs instead of salt for healthier options.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and soul. With tender chicken, chewy egg noodles, and a medley of vibrant vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little TLC. In just one pot, you’ll create a cozy meal that brings smiles to the table and transforms your kitchen into a haven of delicious aromas.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and dice vegetables.
- 2. Sauté Veggies: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat; add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- 3. Add Garlic & Chicken: Stir in minced garlic and diced chicken; cook until chicken is no longer pink (5-7 minutes).
- 4. Pour in Broth & Seasonings: Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil while stirring occasionally.
- 5. Add Noodles: Once boiling, stir in egg noodles; reduce heat and simmer until noodles are cooked (8-10 minutes).
- 6. Taste & Serve: Adjust seasonings as needed and ladle soup into bowls. Enjoy hot!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. For gluten-free options, substitute egg noodles with rice noodles or quinoa. Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil.