This warm chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic! It features tender chicken, soft noodles, and fresh veggies all swimming in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days!
Nothing beats the feeling of a cozy bowl of soup on a cold day. I like to make a big pot and enjoy it for lunch all week. You can never have too much soup, right? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use vegetable oil or even butter for a richer taste.
Onion: Onions give a great base flavor. Yellow onions work best, but you can also use white or red onions if that’s what you have. Each type will slightly change the flavor, but they’ll all work!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well. If you’re avoiding chicken, consider vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Carrots and Celery: These add crunch and a bit of sweetness. If you’re out of either, feel free to substitute with parsnips or bell peppers for different flavors.
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but you could use any pasta like fusilli or even whole grain options. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.
Fresh Parsley: It’s a lovely garnish that freshens up the soup. If you don’t have parsley, fresh thyme or chives can also brighten the dish!
How Can I Make Sure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Soft?
Cooking vegetables to the perfect tenderness is key. Start by sautĂ©ing your onions until they’re translucent; this should take about 5 minutes. Then add garlic and hardy veggies like carrots and celery. Cook them for another 3-4 minutes.
- Stir often to prevent sticking.
- If they start to brown, lower the heat a bit.
- The goal is to soften them without losing their color or crunch.
This step builds the base flavor of your soup, making it rich and hearty!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken noodle soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and comforting, perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté it until it turns translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This will create a lovely base for your soup!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté these vegetables together for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!
3. Build the Soup Base:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil and watch as it comes together beautifully.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Once the soup is boiling, add the egg noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until the noodles are tender and ready to soak up that flavorful broth.
5. Final Touches:
After the noodles are cooked, remember to remove the bay leaf. Give the soup a taste, adjusting the seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed. This is where you can make it just right for you!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. If you like, add some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!
Can I Use Other Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work perfectly, you can substitute them with other pasta varieties like rotini or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Soup Heartier?
If you want a heartier chicken noodle soup, consider adding more vegetables like peas or green beans, or even some potatoes for extra substance. Just add them in with the carrots and celery to ensure they cook through!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space in the container for expansion when freezing!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut! Just shred about a cup of the chicken and add it directly to the soup. It will save you cooking time and adds great flavor!
