Warm your soul with this comforting and flavorful Chicken Noodle Soup. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles, this recipe is the perfect remedy for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. The combination of rich broth, aromatic herbs, and wholesome ingredients will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Get ready to cozy up and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Serving: 4
Yield: Approximately 8 cups
Calories: 250 calories per serving
Ingredients:
- 4 cups (946 ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz (113 g) egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Soup ladle
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Step 2: Pour the chicken broth and water into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the shredded chicken to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through.
Step 4: Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Just before serving, add the cooked egg noodles to the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips and Tricks:
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding chicken breasts.
- Customize your soup by adding other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans.
- For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a sprig of fresh thyme to the soup while simmering.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then add it to the simmering soup and stir until thickened.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 250 calories per serving
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts:
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a classic comfort food that never disappoints. It’s a wholesome and satisfying dish that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a cozy remedy for a cold day, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So grab a bowl, snuggle up, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of homemade chicken noodle soup!
FAQ
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in chicken noodle soup?
A1: Yes, you can use chicken thighs in this chicken noodle soup recipe. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and shred the meat before adding it to the soup.
Q2: Can I use homemade chicken stock instead of chicken broth in chicken noodle soup?
A2: Absolutely! Homemade chicken stock will add even more depth of flavor to your chicken noodle soup. Feel free to use it as a substitute for chicken broth.
Q3: Can I make this chicken noodle soup ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can make the chicken noodle soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze the leftovers of chicken noodle soup?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the chicken noodle soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q5: Can I use other types of noodles in chicken noodle soup?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of noodles or pasta in this chicken noodle soup recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q6: Can I make this chicken noodle soup vegetarian or vegan?
A6: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of chicken noodle soup by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and substitute the chicken with tofu or plant-based protein of your choice.
Q7: Can I add herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of chicken noodle soup?
A7: Definitely! Adding herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can elevate the flavor of chicken noodle soup. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the taste according to your preference.
Q8: Can I add additional vegetables to chicken noodle soup?
A8: Absolutely! This chicken noodle soup recipe serves as a great base, and you can add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans to make it even more nutritious and colorful.
Q9: Can I use store-bought chicken stock instead of making my own for chicken noodle soup?
A9: Yes, using store-bought chicken stock is a convenient option if you don’t have homemade stock on hand. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
Q10: Can I make this chicken noodle soup spicy?
A10: Certainly! If you enjoy some heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the chicken noodle soup a spicy kick.
Q11: Can I garnish chicken noodle soup with anything?
A11: Absolutely! You can garnish the chicken noodle soup with freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Q12: Can I use gluten-free noodles in chicken noodle soup?
A12: Yes, if you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free noodles or pasta in this chicken noodle soup recipe. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Q13: Can I make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker?
A13: Yes, you can adapt this chicken noodle soup recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables and chicken before transferring them to the slow cooker along with the broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cooked noodles just before serving.
Q14: Can I add some cream or milk to make chicken noodle soup creamy?
A14: If you prefer a creamy version of chicken noodle soup, you can add a splash of cream or milk towards the end of cooking. Stir it in gently and heat until warmed through.
Q15: Can I double the chicken noodle soup recipe?
A15: Absolutely! This chicken noodle soup recipe can be easily doubled or adjusted to suit your needs. Just make sure to use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
