One Pot, Endless Comfort: The Chicken Noodle Soup Your Family Will Love
Few dishes are as universally loved as chicken noodle soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food, evoking memories of cozy family dinners, soothing care packages during colds, and the warmth of home no matter where you are.
This classic dish has stood the test of time for good reason: it’s simple, versatile, and downright delicious. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need a little pick-me-up, chicken noodle soup always delivers.
Our recipe puts a slightly unique spin on this beloved classic while staying true to its roots. With tender vegetables, perfectly seasoned broth, and hearty chicken and noodles, this soup is as good for the soul as it is for the stomach. Plus, we’ve added some tips and tricks to make it even easier to prepare and enjoy.
Why Chicken Noodle Soup is a Classic
Chicken noodle soup has a reputation for being the ultimate comfort food—and for good reason. The combination of savory broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles is satisfying and nourishing. It’s a dish that feels just right whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving something warm, or simply looking for a wholesome meal the whole family will love.
Historically, chicken soup has been touted as a “cure-all,” and while it might not be magic, it’s undeniably soothing. Its gentle flavors make it perfect for picky eaters, and its warmth brings a sense of care and comfort that’s hard to beat.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
Making chicken noodle soup might seem straightforward, but a few thoughtful techniques can take it from good to truly unforgettable. From building rich, savory flavors to ensuring the perfect noodle texture, these tips will help you create a bowl of soup that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
- Choose the Right Noodles: Wide egg noodles work beautifully in this recipe because they hold up well in the broth without turning mushy. To keep them from getting too soft, consider cooking them separately and adding them to individual bowls before serving.
- Layer Your Flavors: Sautéing the aromatics (onion, carrot, celery, and garlic) in butter and olive oil before adding the broth creates a rich base that elevates the soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Simmer the vegetables just until tender to maintain their texture. Nobody wants mushy carrots!
- Season as You Go: Adding salt and pepper in layers ensures your soup is well-balanced and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken noodle soup pairs wonderfully with fresh bread, crackers, or even a simple side salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of color. For a complete meal, serve it with a platter of assorted sandwiches or rolls.
Feeling indulgent? A warm slice of buttered sourdough is the perfect companion to soak up every last drop of broth.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about chicken noodle soup is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or corn for extra color and nutrients.
- Try Different Noodles: Swap egg noodles for rice noodles, tortellini, or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
- Go Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy chicken noodle soup variation.
- Kick It Up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Storage Tips
Chicken noodle soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you plan to freeze it, cook the noodles separately and freeze the soup base without them; this prevents the noodles from becoming mushy. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook fresh noodles to add in.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
6
servings15
minutes25
minutesWarm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this chicken noodle soup is the ultimate family favorite. Tender chicken, hearty noodles, and perfectly seasoned broth come together in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
2 Tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 c chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
2 c cooked boneless chicken, cubed or shredded
2 c uncooked wide egg noodles
1/4 fresh parsley, chopped
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat
- Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and chopped fresh parsley. Let the soup heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- If desired, stir in the juice of half a lemon for a bright, fresh finish.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, but in a pinch you can also pick up a precooked rotisserie chicken at your grocery store to use.
Why This Recipe Works
Our chicken noodle soup recipe balances ease and flavor. Using pre-cooked rotisserie or left over chicken saves time without sacrificing taste, and the blend of dried herbs and fresh parsley gives it a comforting, homemade feel. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, whether you’re serving it to a crowd or just enjoying a quiet night in.
So grab your pot and ladle and let this timeless classic bring a little warmth to your table. There’s nothing like a bowl of chicken noodle soup to make everything feel just a little better.
Before you leave, make sure to check out our other classic, delicious soup recipes!
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Hearty Beef Barley Soup Recipe
Easy Lemon Rice Soup – Delicious and Ready in Under 30 Minutes!
A Simple Cheese and Potato Soup Recipe You Can’t Resist
Creamy Carrot Soup: A Simple Recipe That Packs a Punch
Hearty Hamburger Soup: A Family Recipe That Hits the Spot
Corn Chowder Made Easy: A Hearty, Family-Friendly Soup Recipe
Perfect Drop Dumplings for Soup or Stew: A Comfort Food Staple
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