Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting, wholesome dish that has been a staple in many homes for generations. Known for its soothing qualities, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re in need of a warm, nourishing meal. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and hearty egg noodles in a flavorful broth, offering a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook the vegetables until they become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Stir in the shredded chicken, egg noodles, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Once ready, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for a unique flavor profile.
• Noodle Variations: Swap egg noodles for rice, small pasta, or even spiralized zucchini for a gluten-free option.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken? Yes, you can use raw chicken. Simply add it to the pot with the vegetables and cook until fully done, then shred it before adding the noodles.
2. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can cook this soup in a slow cooker. Add all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
3. What other vegetables can I add? Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans to customize the soup to your liking.
4. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh? Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
5. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup stores well and can be made ahead. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
6. How do I make the soup gluten-free? Use gluten-free noodles or substitute them with rice or quinoa. Be sure to also use a gluten-free chicken broth.
7. Can I use homemade chicken broth? Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth adds an extra layer of flavor and richness to the soup.
8. What kind of chicken works best for this recipe? Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but you can also use leftover roasted chicken or cook chicken breasts or thighs specifically for the soup.
9. Is this soup healthy? Yes, this soup is full of vegetables, lean chicken, and a light broth, making it a nutritious meal option.
10. Can I freeze the soup? Yes, chicken noodle soup freezes well. Just be aware that the noodles may become soft after freezing and reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for all occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a way to soothe yourself when under the weather, this homemade soup offers a warm, hearty meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. With the option to modify ingredients and try different variations, this recipe is versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes. So, next time you’re craving something cozy, grab your ingredients and make this classic soup!

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