Name: Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups egg noodles; Fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re craving a warm, soothing bowl that feels like a hug in liquid form, you simply cannot go wrong with this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and an array of vibrant vegetables all swimming in a savory, homemade chicken broth. This soup not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a comforting, nostalgic vibe that makes any day feel a little bit better. Whether you’re under the weather or just in need of a cozy meal, this recipe hits all the right notes with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a large ring of three whole carrots with a smooth orange texture, placed next to a long green celery stalk with leaves at the top. A white bowl holds raw, pale chicken pieces with a smooth texture. Another white bowl contains shredded yellow cheese with a slightly rough texture. A small glass bowl is filled with a light yellow broth, and beside it lies a white bowl of white flour. A small glass jar of ground spices, a salt shaker, a pepper container, a garlic bulb, and a whole onion with light brown skin are also placed around. The items are organized neatly in a loose grid. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that combine to create a dish bursting with flavor and warmth. Each element plays a key role, from the sweetness of the carrots to the heartiness of the egg noodles, making this recipe both straightforward and deeply satisfying.

1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a subtle richness and is perfect for sautéing the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness.
1 onion, diced: Adds a savory base with gentle sweetness that softens beautifully during cooking.
2 carrots, sliced: Contribute color and a mild sweetness that balances the broth.
2 celery stalks, sliced: Offer a crisp, aromatic note that lifts the flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle pungency and warmth to the soup.
8 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, delivering deep chicken flavor and a comforting warmth.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Adds protein and tender bites that make the soup truly satisfying.
2 cups egg noodles: Create a soft, chewy texture that soaks up the broth beautifully.
1 tsp thyme: Brings an earthy herbal aroma that brightens the soup.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish with a pop of color.

How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery, cooking them gently for about five minutes. This step is key because it softens the vegetables and draws out their natural sweetness, which becomes the flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth

Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Then pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the shredded cooked chicken and sprinkle in the thyme along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil; this starts marrying all those cozy flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Once boiling, add in the egg noodles and let them cook for 8 to 10 minutes. You want the noodles tender but still a little firm to avoid them getting mushy. The noodles absorb the rich broth, making every spoonful wonderfully comforting.

Step 4: Final Touches

Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A quick sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds brightness and color that makes this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with clear chicken soup containing pieces of shredded chicken, shell pasta, and slices of carrot. The soup also has small bits of celery and is garnished with a small sprig of thyme on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a lace-like design visible under part of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh parsley is a simple but elegant garnish that elevates the soup with a fresh herbaceous note. For a little extra zing, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors without overwhelming the comforting base.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. A light green salad on the side can also add crunch and freshness, balancing the soup’s heartiness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the soup in individual bread bowls or small mason jars for a charming rustic presentation. You can also top your bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of chili oil to add a little extra flair and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as the soup rests, making your next meal even tastier.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully if you want to keep it longer. To avoid the noodles becoming mushy, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup and cook fresh noodles separately to combine before serving.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Stir in freshly cooked noodles for that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor in your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe. Just shred it and add it in the cooking step.

What type of noodles work best in chicken noodle soup?

Egg noodles are traditional and perfect for this soup due to their tender chew and ability to soak up broth. However, you can also use other pasta shapes like ditalini or even thin spaghetti broken into pieces.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken or replace it with cooked beans or tofu for protein.

How can I make the soup more flavorful?

Roasting the vegetables before sautéing or making your own homemade chicken broth can add deeper flavor. Adding fresh herbs like dill or a bay leaf during simmering can also enhance the taste.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! The soup freezes well if you leave the noodles out before freezing. Add them fresh when reheating to keep their texture just right.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is truly a timeless treasure. Its simple yet rich ingredients come together in a way that feels like home in every bowl. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough—it’s the kind of soup you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.