Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup for comfort and nourishment. This classic dish combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and savory broth with soft noodles, perfect for soothing a cold, enjoying a cozy meal, or savoring rich flavors. Making chicken noodle soup from scratch lets you control ingredients and flavors, offering a healthier option than store bought varieties. You’ll enjoy fresh produce, quality chicken, and no preservatives. This guide will walk you through selecting the best ingredients, mastering cooking techniques, and exploring tasty variations to create a soul warming pot of chicken noodle soup at home. 🍜

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

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Author: The Prestons
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie or poached chicken)
2 cups egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cook the Vegetables:
Add sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in chicken broth and add dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Add Chicken and Noodles:
Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Simmer for another 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
Finish and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Make Ahead: Store soup without noodles if making ahead to avoid sogginess. Add freshly cooked noodles when serving.
Variations: Substitute egg noodles with any pasta or use rice for a gluten free option. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy a comforting bowl of this classic homemade chicken noodle soup. 🍜

Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup isn’t just a delicious comfort food, it’s also packed with health benefits. When prepared with fresh ingredients, it can offer a nutritious boost to your diet and provide a sense of well being. Let’s explore some of the key benefits:

Nutritional Benefits

Rich in Protein: The chicken in this soup provides high quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. Protein also helps keep you full longer, making chicken noodle soup a satisfying meal.
Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, contribute vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants that help support immune function.
Hydration: The broth based soup contributes to your daily fluid intake, keeping you hydrated, especially when you’re under the weather.
Digestive Health: A clear broth can be gentle on the stomach, aiding in digestion and providing comfort during illnesses.

Comforting Properties

Perfect for Colds and Flu: The warm broth can help soothe a sore throat, reduce congestion, and keep you hydrated when you’re sick. Studies suggest that chicken soup may have mild anti inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate cold symptoms.
Emotional Comfort: There’s a reason chicken noodle soup is often called “soul food.” The aroma and warmth of a homemade bowl can bring back memories of childhood and provide a comforting experience.

Immunity Boosting

Bone Broth Benefits: If you make your own broth using chicken bones, you’ll get added nutrients like collagen, which can support joint health and boost the immune system.
Garlic and Herbs: Adding ingredients like garlic, thyme, and parsley not only enhances flavor but also provides natural immune boosting properties.

Key Ingredients for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

To create the perfect chicken noodle soup, choosing the right ingredients is crucial. Let’s break down the essential components:

Choosing the Best Chicken

Whole Chicken: Using a whole chicken can enhance the flavor of your broth and provide a mix of white and dark meat. The bones also contribute to a richer, more nutritious broth.
Chicken Breasts: For a leaner option, chicken breasts work well. They provide a milder flavor and are great for those watching their fat intake.
Chicken Thighs: These add more depth to the soup with their higher fat content, resulting in a richer taste. Boneless, skinless thighs are convenient, but using bone in thighs will enhance the broth.

Noodle Varieties

Egg Noodles: Traditional and perfect for chicken noodle soup, egg noodles hold up well in the broth and provide a slightly chewy texture.
Pasta Alternatives: You can use other pasta types, such as rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti broken into pieces.
Gluten Free Options: If you need a gluten free soup, opt for rice noodles, quinoa pasta, or chickpea pasta for added protein.

Essential Vegetables

Carrots: These add a natural sweetness and a boost of vitamin A.
Celery: Provides a subtle crunch and flavor depth.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics lay the flavor foundation for the soup.
Optional Add Ins: Peas, corn, green beans, or spinach can add more nutrients and color to your soup.

Broth Selection

Homemade Broth: Making your own chicken broth by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs is ideal. It offers a rich flavor and nutritional benefits.
Store Bought Broth: For convenience, store bought broth works fine. Opt for low sodium versions so you can control the seasoning.
Broth Tips: To enhance a store bought broth, simmer it with a few fresh herbs, garlic, and vegetable scraps for 20 minutes before using.

Step by Step Recipe for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Now that we’ve covered the benefits and essential ingredients, let’s dive into how to make a delicious pot of homemade chicken noodle soup. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Preparation of Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prep all your ingredients:

Chicken: If you’re using a whole chicken, break it down into pieces. For chicken breasts or thighs, trim any excess fat.
Vegetables: Chop carrots, celery, and onions into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely for an aromatic base.
Noodles: If you’re using longer pasta, break it into shorter lengths for easier eating.

Cooking Instructions

1. Sautéing Aromatics

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.

2. Adding Chicken and Broth

Place the chicken (whole, breasts, or thighs) into the pot.
Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
Add 2 bay leaves, a sprig of thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste.

3. Simmering

Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer.
Simmer for 25-30 minutes if using boneless chicken, or 45-60 minutes for a whole chicken. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.

4. Shredding the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any bones or skin if using a whole chicken.

5. Cooking the Noodles

Bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
Add your noodles (about 2 cups of egg noodles or your preferred type) and cook according to the package instructions, usually 6-8 minutes.

6. Combining Everything

Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Stir in fresh herbs like chopped parsley for added flavor.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Tips for the Best Flavor

Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley at the end of cooking can brighten the soup’s flavor.
Secret Ingredient: A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can elevate the taste, adding a subtle tanginess.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: To avoid soggy noodles, cook them al dente and serve the soup immediately. Alternatively, cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl when serving.

Variations of Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is incredibly versatile. You can tweak the recipe to match your taste preferences or dietary needs:

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Stick to traditional egg noodles, a clear chicken broth, and the classic trio of carrots, celery, and onions.
This version is perfect for when you want a simple, no fuss bowl of comfort.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

To make the soup creamy, add 1 cup of heavy cream or milk after the noodles are cooked.
You can also stir in a roux made of 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken the broth.

Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup

Swap regular noodles for whole wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber and protein.
Load up on extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for more nutrients.
Use skinless chicken breasts and a low sodium broth to reduce calories and sodium.

Instant Pot and Slow Cooker Methods

Instant Pot Version:

Sauté vegetables in the Instant Pot, then add chicken, broth, and seasonings.
Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Release the pressure, shred the chicken, add noodles, and cook on the sauté setting until noodles are tender.

Slow Cooker Method:

Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, except for the noodles. Set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Add the noodles during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. To elevate your meal, consider these delicious serving ideas:

Bread Pairings

Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the rich taste of the soup.
Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls or biscuits add a comforting touch to the meal.

Garnishing Ideas

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, dill, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Grated Cheese: Add a bit of grated Parmesan or cheddar for extra richness.
Croutons: Crunchy croutons can provide a delightful texture contrast.

Beverage Pairings

White Wine: A light, crisp wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the soup’s savory flavors.
Herbal Tea: Chamomile or peppermint tea can enhance the soup’s soothing qualities.
Lemon Water: Helps cleanse the palate and complements the lightness of the broth.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

One of the best things about chicken noodle soup is how well it stores. With proper storage, you can enjoy it for days or even freeze it for future meals.

How to Store Properly

In the Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the soup and noodles separate if possible to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.
In the Freezer: Chicken noodle soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the best texture, freeze the soup without the noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating.

Best Reheating Methods

Stovetop: Heat the soup over medium heat until fully warmed. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave safe bowl in 1 minute increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Avoid Overcooking Noodles: When reheating, be cautious not to boil the soup too long if it already contains noodles. This will help maintain their texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Noodle Soup

Even though chicken noodle soup is relatively simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect its taste and texture. Avoid these pitfalls for the perfect bowl every time:

1. Overcooking the Noodles

Issue: Overcooked noodles become mushy and may break apart in the soup.
Solution: Cook the noodles separately or add them toward the end of the cooking process.

2. Bland Broth

Issue: A weak broth can make the soup taste flat.
Solution: Build a flavorful base by sautéing aromatics, using quality chicken broth, and seasoning properly with salt, pepper, and herbs. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of bouillon can boost flavor.

3. Mushy Vegetables

Issue: Overcooked vegetables lose their texture and nutritional value.
Solution: Cut vegetables uniformly and avoid cooking them on too high a heat for too long.

4. Not Skimming the Broth

Issue: When using a whole chicken or bone in pieces, the broth can become cloudy with excess fat and impurities.
Solution: Skim off foam and fat while the soup simmers to keep the broth clear and light.

5. Adding All Ingredients at Once

Issue: Different ingredients require different cooking times. Adding everything simultaneously can result in overcooked or undercooked components.
Solution: Add ingredients in stages. Start with chicken and broth, then add vegetables, and finally noodles and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help you perfect your homemade chicken noodle soup, here are answers to some of the most common questions:

1. Can I Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes, you can! Chicken noodle soup freezes well, especially if you freeze it without the noodles. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook fresh noodles separately to maintain their texture. You can store the soup in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. What Are the Best Noodles to Use?

Traditional egg noodles are often used because they hold their shape well and offer a chewy texture. However, you can also use:

Rotini or Fusilli: Adds a fun twist to the soup.
Gluten Free Noodles: Rice noodles or chickpea pasta for dietary needs.
Orzo: For a smaller, rice-like option.

3. How Do I Make Chicken Noodle Soup More Flavorful?

Sauté Aromatics: Cook onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil or butter to build a flavor base.
Use Fresh Herbs: Add thyme, parsley, or dill to enhance freshness.
Add a Secret Ingredient: A splash of lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or a dash of soy sauce can add depth to the broth.

4. Can I Use Leftover Chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken can save time and reduce waste. Add the chicken towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

5. How Do I Prevent Soggy Noodles in Soup?

To avoid soggy noodles:

Cook Noodles Separately: Add them directly to individual servings.
Undercook Noodles Slightly: If adding to the pot, cook them 1-2 minutes less than the package directions.
Store Soup and Noodles Separately: When storing leftovers, keep the noodles apart from the broth.

6. How Can I Make Chicken Noodle Soup Thicker?

For a thicker, creamy chicken noodle soup:

Add a Roux: Mix 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of flour, cook for 1-2 minutes, and then stir into the soup.
Use Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add to the soup while it simmers.
Incorporate Heavy Cream: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.

If you’re whipping up a cozy bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, you might also enjoy pairing it with our comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup or adding a twist with flavorful sides like the Chicken Rice and Vegetable Casserole. For even more comfort food inspiration, don’t miss our hearty Easy Lasagna Soup Recipe. These recipes make the perfect companions to your warm and nourishing soup.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal, it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to both body and spirit. With fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and customizable options, this soup can suit every taste and occasion. Whether you prefer the classic version, a creamy twist, or a healthier option, chicken noodle soup remains a versatile and beloved dish.

By following the step by step recipe and avoiding common mistakes, you can enjoy a perfect bowl of soup every time. So why not grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a homemade dish that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma and your heart with comfort? 🍜💛

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