A timeless favorite, this classic chicken noodle soup is made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting noodles in a flavorful broth. It’s the perfect bowl of warmth when you’re craving something soothing and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups (1.4 L) chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (150 g) egg noodles or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups (120 g) spinach or kale (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add Broth and Spices
- Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, parsley, bay leaf, and more salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Soup
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
Add Noodles and Chicken
- While the soup simmers, shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Finish the Soup
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in spinach or kale if desired. For added brightness, add lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
- Ladle the classic chicken noodle soup into bowls and serve with a slice of warm bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Tips
- To make the soup heartier, you can add other vegetables such as peas or corn.
- If you prefer a clearer broth, avoid adding too many seasonings and focus on fresh herbs for a delicate flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
This classic chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy meal any time of year!
