Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a cozy meal, or simply looking for a wholesome dish to warm your soul, this recipe delivers. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked noodles, this soup is a timeless classic that never disappoints.

Unlike canned versions, this recipe is full of rich flavors and offers the satisfaction of creating something nourishing and homemade. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, with straightforward steps that make it accessible yet deeply rewarding.

Why This Recipe is the Best

1. Wholesome Ingredients: Made from scratch with fresh chicken, vegetables, and herbs.
2. Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, noodles, and veggies to suit your taste.
3. Meal Prep Friendly: Makes a large batch, ideal for leftovers or freezing.
4. Quick Comfort: Ready in under an hour for a warm, satisfying meal any day of the week.

Step 1: Make the Chicken Broth

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken under cold water and place it in a large stockpot.
2. Add Broth Ingredients: Cover with 8 cups of water or chicken broth. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook the Broth: Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
4. Strain and Reserve: Carefully remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl or pot, discarding the vegetables and spices.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

1. Cool and Shred: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones. Shred or cube the meat into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones, or save them for future stock.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Sauté: In the same stockpot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and parsley. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Add Broth and Chicken: Pour the reserved chicken broth back into the pot. Add the shredded chicken. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
2. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Season: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper. For a brighter flavor, stir in the juice of half a lemon.
2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Homemade Broth is Key: For a rich and flavorful base, making your own broth is worth the effort. If short on time, a good-quality store-bought broth works too.
2. Choose the Right Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use any pasta shape. Add them just before serving to avoid sogginess.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Simmer the chicken gently for tender, juicy meat. Overcooking can make it tough.
4. Fresh Herbs for Flavor: Fresh parsley, thyme, or dill can elevate the flavor of your soup.
5. Make it Ahead: The flavors deepen as the soup sits, so it’s even better the next day.

Variations

1. Low-Carb Option: Swap noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
2. Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
3. Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
4. Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.
5. Add Grains: Use rice, quinoa, or barley instead of noodles for a heartier soup.

Serving Suggestions

1. Bread Pairings: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or buttered rolls.
2. Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad complements the soup beautifully

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade chicken noodle soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. The comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as the broth simmers, the satisfaction of shredding tender chicken, and the joy of creating something nourishing and delicious from scratch make this dish truly special.

Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you need a comforting pick-me-up, this soup delivers every time. With its rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and soul-soothing warmth, it’s a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just food—it’s a classic comfort that brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to make the best chicken noodle soup you’ve ever tasted!

Yield: 6

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Whether you're feeling under the weather, craving a cozy meal, or simply looking for a wholesome dish to warm your soul, this recipe delivers. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked noodles, this soup is a timeless classic that never disappoints.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Soup Base
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• For the Broth
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color and warmth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the Noodles
• 2 cups egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

2. Build the Broth

• Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
• Add the shredded chicken, bay leaf, thyme, parsley, and turmeric (if using).
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

3. Cook the Noodles

• Add the egg noodles to the pot and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
• Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

4. Serve and Garnish

• Remove the bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal.
• Add a side salad for a balanced dinner.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: If you plan to store the soup, cook the noodles separately to prevent them from soaking up too much broth over time. Add them just before serving.

Vegetable Variations: Add diced zucchini, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.