There’s a special kind of warmth that fills the kitchen when you start to make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. The moment the chicken hits the hot oil, a savory sizzle fills the air, heralding a comforting dish that promises to wrap you in nostalgia. With tender chunks of chicken swimming alongside vibrant carrots and hearty egg noodles in a rich, flavorful broth, this recipe evokes the kind of homey meals that soothe both body and spirit, especially on chilly days.
After a particularly busy week, I found myself craving that beloved taste of home. The simplicity of this dish not only allows for easy preparation but also invites creativity—add a pinch of thyme or a splash of lemon for a refreshing twist. Whether you’re nursing a cold or just wanting to indulge in a cozy, homemade meal, this Chicken Noodle Soup will always be a go-to. So, grab your favorite pot, and let’s create something heartwarming together!
Why is Chicken Noodle Soup a Must-Make?
Comforting aroma: The moment you start cooking, the rich smell of savory broth fills your kitchen, evoking a sense of home and warmth.
Wholesome ingredients: Each bowl is packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and hearty noodles, providing nourishment and satisfaction.
Quick prep: In just a few easy steps and with minimal fuss, you can whip up a delightful pot of soup perfect for any occasion.
Versatile flavors: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices for a personalized touch that keeps every bowl exciting!
Family favorite: This classic dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal meal to share with loved ones.
Indulge in this heartwarming recipe and experience a nostalgic bowl of warmth!
Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Vegetable Oil – This is used for sautéing the chicken; try olive oil for a heart-healthy swap.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Pieces – These add rich depth to the broth; a combination of thighs and breasts works best.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Stock – The savory base of the soup; opt for low-sodium to cater to health-conscious eaters.
- Cold Water – Used to mellow and balance the broth’s flavors.
For the Aromatics
- Thyme Sprigs – Imparts an aromatic flavor; you can substitute with dry thyme if fresh is unavailable.
- Bay Leaf – Contributes earthy notes; remember to remove it before serving.
- Small Yellow Onion – Adds essential depth to the soup; shallots can be used for a milder sweetness.
- Celery Ribs – Provides a crunchy texture and flavor; leeks are a great substitute if desired.
- Large Carrot – Introduces natural sweetness; parsnips can be swapped for a unique twist.
For the Noodles and Garnish
- Wide Egg Noodles – These absorb the delicious broth flavors; consider gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – This adds a kick of flavor; feel free to omit if you prefer less spice.
- Finely Chopped Fresh Parsley – Perfect for garnish, adding a touch of freshness to each bowl.
Get ready to create a bowl of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup that’s sure to wrap you in warmth and comfort!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
-
Heat oil: In a large pot, preferably a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering. This sets the stage for a rich flavor.
-
Brown chicken: Season chicken pieces with kosher salt, then place skin side down in the pot. Brown for about 5 minutes until golden, then flip to brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
-
Add liquids: Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and cold water, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all those delicious bits stuck to the surface. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
-
Simmer chicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F for breasts) and dark meat may take about 40 minutes longer.
-
Shred chicken: Once done, carefully remove the chicken to a cutting board. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
-
Sauté aromatics: Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs from the broth. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and carrot, simmering for about 5 minutes until tender and aromatic.
-
Cook noodles: Toss in the wide egg noodles, cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until they are perfectly tender and have absorbed the flavors of the broth.
-
Combine ingredients: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, and adjust salt if needed to taste, stirring gently to combine.
-
Serve warm: Ladle the comforting soup into bowls, garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Noodle Soup
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on pieces to enrich your broth’s flavor. They add depth that’s hard to match with boneless cuts.
- Don’t Rush Browning: Allow the chicken to brown fully before flipping—this caramelization intensifies flavor, making your chicken noodle soup even more delightful.
- Balance Your Broth: Use low-sodium chicken stock to control salt levels; it enhances the broth’s flavor without overwhelming. Taste and adjust before serving.
- Keep Noodles Separate: To avoid mushy noodles, store leftover soup and noodles separately. This keeps each component fresh for future meals.
- Enhance with Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end for an aromatic lift and vibrant color in your chicken noodle soup.
- Make Ahead: If preparing in advance, add the noodles just before serving. This ensures they retain their perfect texture and don’t soak up too much broth.
What to Serve with Classic Chicken Noodle Soup?
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of classic chicken noodle soup to soothe your soul and satisfy your hunger on a chilly day.
-
Crusty Bread: This is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that savory broth, offering a delightful texture contrast. Adding a pat of butter elevates the experience!
-
Garden Salad: A light and refreshing side that pairs beautifully with the heartiness of the soup, bringing a crispy crunch to each meal.
-
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey, melty cheese and crispy bread create a comforting pairing that truly embodies the essence of home-cooked meals.
-
Savory Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are a fantastic addition to soak up the delicious broth while adding a warm, buttery richness to the meal.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized vegetables add a wholesome touch and delightful sweetness that complements the flavors in the soup.
-
Applesauce: A sweet and tangy side that balances the savory depth of the soup, offering a nostalgic touch to your comforting meal.
-
Lemonade: A refreshing beverage that cuts through the richness, providing a zesty contrast that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with these classic treats; their chewy texture provides a delightful finish to your cozy meal.
-
Herbal Tea: A warm cup enhances the soothing experience of the soup, offering aromatic herbal notes that promote relaxation.
Chicken Noodle Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to give this classic a personal twist that tantalizes your taste buds and makes it uniquely yours!
- Turkey Swap: Use shredded turkey instead of chicken for a delicious post-holiday option. It’s just as comforting!
- Zucchini Noodles: Replace egg noodles with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb alternative that still warms your soul.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a delightful hint of heat that awakens the flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh dill or rosemary instead of thyme for a fragrant twist that adds an aromatic allure.
- Creamy Comfort: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for an extra luxurious, creamy texture.
- Root Veggie Mix: Swap carrots for parsnips or sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness and a nutritious boost in the soup.
- Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger for an umami depth that transforms your soup into an entirely new experience.
- Lemon Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory broth.
Let your creativity shine with these substitutions and make this Chicken Noodle Soup a reflection of your favorite tastes!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup
Fridge: Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep noodles separate to avoid mushiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken noodle soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Preparation Tip: If making ahead, consider adding the noodles fresh during reheating for the best texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Chicken Noodle Soup ingredients are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance and savor comforting meals without the last-minute rush. You can sauté the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before adding it to the broth. Additionally, chop the vegetables and refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. To keep the noodles from becoming mushy, consider cooking them just before serving, as they can be prepared in just about 5 minutes. When ready to enjoy, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the broth, simmer until warm, and you’ll have a soothing bowl of chicken noodle soup on the table in no time!
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my soup?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, choose bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. Thighs and breasts together create a well-balanced broth. Look for fresh chicken with a clean smell, with no discoloration or dark spots.
What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Noodle Soup?
Very simply! Store your leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you prefer, keep the noodles separate to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheating.
Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Soup?
Definitely! To freeze your chicken noodle soup, use an airtight container or freezer bags and portion it out. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating slowly on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed for consistency.
What should I do if my broth is too salty?
No worries, it happens! If your broth turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding chopped potatoes and simmering for about 15-20 minutes. The potatoes will absorb some of the excess salt. Once cooked, you can discard them before serving, and your soup will taste just right!
Can I use gluten-free noodles in this Chicken Noodle Soup?
The more the merrier! Absolutely, you can substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free noodles. Just make sure to check their cooking time, as they may vary from traditional noodles. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.
Is Chicken Noodle Soup safe for pets or people with allergies?
Yes! While chicken noodle soup is often comforting, be cautious if sharing with pets. Cooked chicken without seasoning and pure broth can be safe for dogs, but avoid onions and garlic. If allergies are a concern, always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially for pre-packaged chicken stock or noodles.
Heartwarming Chicken Noodle Soup for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
- Season chicken pieces with kosher salt, then place skin side down in the pot. Brown for about 5 minutes until golden, then flip to brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and cold water, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all delicious bits. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 40 minutes for dark meat.
- Remove the chicken to a cutting board, allow to cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces, discarding skin and bones.
- Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs from the broth. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrot, simmering for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Add wide egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot, sprinkle with black pepper, and adjust salt if needed, stirring gently to combine.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with chopped parsley before serving.