This timeless chicken noodle soup is hearty, comforting, and perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s easy to prepare and filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Add Chicken and Noodles
- Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
4. Season and Finish
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
- Pair it with a light green salad for added nutrition.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Homemade Broth: If you have time, use homemade chicken stock for deeper flavor.
- Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use leftover roast chicken or turkey.
- Make It Ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time, but cook the noodles separately to avoid them getting mushy when reheated.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup without the noodles, then add fresh noodles when reheating.
This classic chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for soothing the soul and warming the heart.
