This Chicken Noodle Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and colorful veggies, it’s comforting and tasty.
Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. I love how easy it is to make, and my family always asks for seconds. Who wouldn’t want a bowl of happiness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I prefer olive oil for its heart-healthy benefits, but butter adds a delicious richness. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil or try coconut oil for a twist.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is the best if you have time; otherwise, low-sodium store-bought is great. You can also use vegetable broth for a veggie version. Just remember that this will change the flavor a bit!
Cooked Chicken: I usually go for rotisserie chicken for ease. It saves time, and the flavor is excellent. You can also boil chicken breasts yourself if you prefer control over seasonings and cooking methods.
Noodles: I love egg noodles for their chewy texture, but you can use whole wheat pasta or rice noodles if you want a different taste or if you’re gluten-free. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
How Can You Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing is a way to cook food quickly over medium heat, developing its flavors. Here’s how to sauté your veggies just right:
- Start with a hot pan. Heat oil or butter until it shimmers.
- Add your diced onion first; it takes the longest to soften. Cook until it’s translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add carrots and celery next. Their crunchiness adds texture. Keep stirring occasionally.
- Finally, toss in minced garlic at the end to avoid burning. Cook for just 1 minute until fragrant.
This method ensures your vegetables remain flavorful and vibrant, bringing a lovely base to your soup!
Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 carrots, sliced
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 6 ounces egg noodles or wide flat noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 45 minutes. You’ll have a cozy pot of soup ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, then sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Add Garlic and Broth:
Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This will add flavor to your soup!
3. Combine Chicken and Herbs:
Next, add the shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the pot. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine everything.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This time allows all the delicious flavors to meld together into a comforting broth.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the egg noodles. Cook according to package instructions until they are tender, usually around 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this warm and comforting bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup!
This classic Chicken Noodle Soup features a savory broth with tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, and fresh vegetables, all topped with herbs to brighten the flavors. Perfect for cozy meals!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great shortcut. Just add them to the pot after the broth is boiling, and they’ll cook quickly. Simply adjust the cooking time by a few minutes as needed.
Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Add all the ingredients (except the noodles) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles about 30 minutes before serving, and let them cook until tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just be sure to leave out the noodles before freezing, as they can become mushy when reheated.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use vegetable broth and skip the chicken altogether. For protein, try adding chickpeas or white beans instead. Adjust seasonings to enhance the flavor!
