Chicken Noodle Soup – This soup is the ultimate comfort food that is incredibly simple yet deeply satisfying packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and flavorful broth, it’s a dish that warms both the body and soul.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Choose Quality Stock: The broth is the heart of this soup. If possible, use homemade chicken stock for richer flavor. If store-bought, go for low-sodium options.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Cooking bone-in chicken directly in the soup adds depth to the flavor. Shred the meat after cooking.
- Cook Noodles Separately for Leftovers: To avoid mushy noodles in leftovers, cook them separately and add them to individual servings.
- Layer the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your palate.
Variations to Try
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup:
For a velvety twist, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Gluten-Free Option:
Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Asian-Inspired Twist:
Incorporate ginger, soy sauce, and bok choy for a flavor-packed variation.
Vegetarian Version:
Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is best served piping hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Pair it with:
- Crusty Bread: Sourdough or a baguette is perfect for dipping.
- Side Salad: A light green salad balances the hearty soup.
- Crackers: Add a crunchy element by serving with crackers on the side.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Noodle Soup
Storing:
- In the Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps for up to 4 days.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without noodles) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup was frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Add freshly cooked noodles before serving for the best texture.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken works wonderfully and saves time.
Q: What noodles are best for chicken noodle soup?
Egg noodles are the classic choice, but you can use any pasta like bow ties, spaghetti, or even rice noodles.
Q: How do I make the soup thicker?
You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) or stirring in mashed potatoes.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients except noodles in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes.
Q: How can I make it more flavorful?
- Use roasted garlic or caramelized onions for a deeper flavor.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup - This soup is the ultimate comfort food that is incredibly simple yet deeply satisfying packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and flavorful broth, it’s a dish that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 2 celery stalks (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter, chicken fat, or olive oil
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Water or extra stock, if needed
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies: Melt butter in a large pot. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Broth: Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Submerge chicken thighs in the soup, cover partially, and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Add water or stock if needed.
- Prep the Noodles: Remove cooked chicken and stir in noodles. Cook 6–10 minutes until tender.
- Shred the Chicken: While noodles cook, shred or dice chicken. Return it to the pot.
- Finish with Herbs: Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 241Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 102mgSodium 1009mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 26g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Why Chicken Noodle Soup is So Loved
Chicken noodle soup transcends cultures and cuisines, making appearances in everything from grandmother’s kitchen to Michelin-starred restaurants. Its nourishing properties are supported by science, often touted as a remedy for colds and flu. Beyond its health benefits, it offers the cozy familiarity of home in every spoonful.
