Chicken Noodle Soup

This Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Packed with tender shredded chicken, hearty noodles, and fresh vegetables, it’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is suitable for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs create a savory experience that warms your soul.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite veggies or noodles to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later.
• Comforting and Nourishing: Ideal for cold days or when you’re feeling unwell, providing warmth and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Noodle Soup effortlessly, gather your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting of vegetables and chicken.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving hot soup without spills.

Ingredients

This flavorful and cozy chicken noodle soup is packed with tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, crisp celery, onions, and carrots, all simmered in a savory, warm broth.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 celery stalks (thinly sliced)
• 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 10 to 12 cups low sodium chicken broth (I normally use 12 cups because I like a brothier soup)
• 4 thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves

For the Protein

• 2 pounds skinless, bone-in chicken breasts

Seasonings

• 1¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

For the Noodles

• 10 ounces carba-nada noodles (low carb noodles) (or use regular wide egg noodles)

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat the olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. To the heated oil, add:
1. The chopped onions,
2. Sliced celery,
3. And carrots; cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Herbs

Add the chicken broth to the pot:
1. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom.
2. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
3. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add in the chicken breasts along with:
1. Salt,
2. And pepper; stir well.
3. Cover and simmer over medium heat for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Once cooked:
1. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot.
2. Place them on a cutting board.

Step 5: Cook Noodles

If using regular egg noodles:
1. Add them to the broth; cook for about 6 to 7 minutes until al dente.
If using Carba-Nada noodles:
1. Wait until you shred the chicken before adding them since they cook in about 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Soup

While waiting for the noodles:
1. Shred the cooked chicken discarding any bones.
2. Stir shredded chicken back into the soup; cover and simmer for another 2 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove from heat:
1. Discard thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
2. Taste soup; adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle into bowls:
1. Garnish with parsley,
2. Serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra zing!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving chicken noodle soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Thyme Leaves: Add fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the soup.

Pairing with Bread

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the broth.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a flavorful and satisfying combo.

Adding a Zest

• Lemon Wedges: Offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze into their bowls.
• Hot Sauce: Provide hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their soup.

With a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad can balance the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, adding crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting your chicken noodle soup ensures every bowl is delicious. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh vegetables to maximize taste and nutrition.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually helps avoid over-seasoning.
• Avoid Overcooking Noodles: If using traditional egg noodles, add them at the right time to keep them al dente.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing sides with chicken noodle soup enhances your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing offers cheesy goodness that complements the soup perfectly.
2. Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits provide a delightful texture contrast, great for dipping in the broth.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavors to your meal.
4. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad can add a refreshing element alongside the warm soup.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with savory soups, making it an excellent choice.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice and meat can be a filling side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chicken noodle soup, it’s easy to fall into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook your onions, celery, and carrots first to enhance their flavors.
• Using Regular Chicken Broth: Using high-sodium broth can overpower the soup. Opt for low sodium chicken broth for a more balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Simmer just until it’s cooked through, then shred it for the best texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your soup flat. Always taste before serving, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
• Adding Noodles Too Early: If you add noodles too soon, they can become mushy. Timing is key; add them at the right moment based on their cooking time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chicken noodle soup in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Noodle Soup

• Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat; stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chicken noodle soup that might help you make the perfect bowl.

Can I use leftover chicken for my Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken works great and saves time.

What kind of noodles should I use in Chicken Noodle Soup?

You can use egg noodles or low-carb options like Carba-Nada noodles depending on your dietary preferences.

How do I make Chicken Noodle Soup gluten-free?

To make gluten-free chicken noodle soup, substitute regular noodles with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Can I add other vegetables to Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Noodle Soup?

The total time takes about 65 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This chicken noodle soup recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or noodles according to your taste. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s perfect for cozy meals any day!