This Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, made with tender chicken and egg noodles that really stick to your heart (and stomach!). The broth is a hug in a bowl!
Nothing beats a steaming bowl when you’re feeling under the weather. I always sprinkle a bit of pepper on top, adding a kick that I love! Perfect after a long day! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is ideal, but low-sodium store-bought works too. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead. You can even enhance flavor with store-bought stock cubes.
Chicken: I often use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to omit it or use chickpeas for protein.
Egg Noodles: Traditional for this soup, but you can substitute with whole wheat noodles or even gluten-free options if needed. Other pasta types like rotini can work in a pinch.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch. You can include zucchini or peas for a different twist. Frozen veggies are a time-saver too!
How Do I Make the Vegetables Perfectly Tender?
Sautéing the vegetables first brings out great flavors before adding the broth. Keep these tips in mind:
- Cook onions until translucent to add sweetness.
- Add carrots and celery next, as they take longer to soften.
- Don’t rush the process. Give them 5-7 minutes to become tender before adding garlic. Garlic burns quickly, so it should go in last.
Following these steps will ensure your chicken noodle soup is full of flavor and the veggies are just right!
Delicious Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more fresh parsley for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley sprigs for garnish
Time Needed:
This delightful soup takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, with an additional 10 minutes for simmering. All in all, you can have a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup ready in less than 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential to build a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth. Pour it into the pot and bring everything to a boil. The bubbling soup is a good sign that you’re on the right track!
4. Add Chicken and Herbs:
Once boiling, add the diced or shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, and rosemary if you’re using it. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Noodles:
At this point, add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, until they are tender and ready to soak up the delicious broth.
6. Season to Taste:
Before serving, taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy; this is your chance to make it perfect for your taste buds!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal!
Enjoy this comforting bowl of classic Chicken Noodle Soup with tender egg noodles and hearty veggies! It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a bit of warmth. 😊
Can I Use Different Noodles in This Soup?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with other pasta types like whole wheat noodles, rotini, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you’re looking for an alternative, vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian version! You can also use water mixed with bouillon cubes or powder for a quick and flavorful substitute.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the noodles absorb too much broth, just add a splash of water or additional broth while reheating!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make the soup ahead! Just prepare everything up to adding the noodles, then let it cool and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat and add the noodles to cook until tender.