Cozy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it’s made with love for your family. This recipe is a household favorite that’s packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, savory broth. It’s a lifesaver during cold and flu season, a hug in a bowl on a chilly day, and perfect for picky eaters who need a little extra warmth. Whether you’re serving this to your little ones or prepping for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is both kid-approved and mom-loved. Bonus? It’s simple to make and comes together in under an hour!
What You’ll Need:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups wide egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Pro Tips:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s perfectly seasoned and super tender, which adds extra flavor to the soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the noodles just until al dente in the soup to prevent them from becoming mushy, especially if reheating leftovers.
- Enhance the Broth Flavor: If you want a richer broth, simmer the soup with a leftover chicken carcass or add a teaspoon of chicken bouillon.
- Sneak in Extra Veggies: For picky eaters, finely dice some zucchini or add a handful of spinach at the end – it’ll blend right in!
- Double the Batch for Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully (just leave out the noodles until reheating). It’s perfect for busy nights or when someone’s feeling under the weather.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Substitutions and Variations:
- Noodles: Swap egg noodles for ditalini, orzo, or gluten-free pasta.
- Broth: Vegetable broth works as a substitute if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian-friendly soup.
- Chicken: Use leftover turkey or even canned chicken in a pinch.
- Herbs: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh dill for a bright, zesty flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep in Advance: Chop the veggies and shred the chicken the day before to cut down on prep time.
- Separate the Noodles: If making this soup ahead of time, cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating to prevent them from soaking up too much broth.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Spices
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Noodles
Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Simmer for 6–8 minutes, or until the noodles are just tender.
Step 4: Taste and Finish
Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasonings as needed, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Leftovers and Storage Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the soup (without the noodles) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.
Conclusion
There’s nothing like the soothing magic of homemade chicken noodle soup to bring everyone together. Whether you’re nursing a cold or just craving something comforting, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your family’s rotation. Try it out, share it with loved ones, and let me know in the comments how it turned out! I’d love to hear your variations and any questions you have. Happy cooking! 😊
