If you have ever longed for a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With its tender shredded chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, this classic homemade chicken noodle soup is both soothing and hearty. Whether you’re nursing a cold or just craving something cozy on a chilly night, this recipe balances simple ingredients with rich, homey flavors to create a timeless dish that warms the soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each component plays a critical role: the shredded chicken adds tender protein, carrots bring that subtle sweetness and bright color, while egg noodles provide the satisfying bite we all love.
- 2 cups shredded chicken: Use cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh for juicy, tender pieces that meld into the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The foundation of the soup’s flavor—opt for a good-quality or homemade broth for depth.
- 2 cups egg noodles: Choose classic egg noodles for their perfect chew and ability to soak up all the savory goodness.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced: Adds a naturally sweet crunch and lovely color contrast to the soup.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Broth and Carrots to a Boil
Start by heating your chicken broth in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once it begins to boil, toss in your sliced carrots. Cooking the carrots early allows them to soften just enough to bring a gentle sweetness and textural contrast to the soup.
Step 2: Add Noodles and Chicken
When the carrots have started to tenderize, add the egg noodles and shredded chicken to the pot. The noodles soak up the rich broth, and the chicken infuses the soup with protein and hearty flavor. Stir gently to avoid breaking the noodles and let everything simmer together.
Step 3: Cook and Season
Allow the soup to cook for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape. Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. This step enhances all the individual flavors and ensures every spoonful is perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing can elevate this classic dish even more. Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of dill adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the broth, adding a subtle zing that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with crunchy garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. A simple green salad provides a crisp contrast, rounding out the meal perfectly without competing with the soup’s comforting flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your soup in a bread bowl, turning your meal into a cozy, edible experience. Alternatively, layering fresh herbs or roasted vegetables on top can add texture and visual appeal, transforming this humble soup into a centerpiece-worthy dish for any casual gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe keeps well for up to three days, making it a perfect candidate for next-day lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
Freezing this soup is an option, but it’s best to store the broth and chicken separately from the noodles to prevent them from becoming overly soft. Freeze the broth and chicken mixture for up to two months and cook or add fresh noodles when ready to serve.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the soup. If noodles were separated before freezing, add freshly cooked noodles during reheating to restore the soup’s perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and actually saves time. Just be sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
What type of noodles are best for chicken noodle soup?
Egg noodles are traditional and preferred for their texture and ability to absorb broth flavors, but you can also use other pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells depending on your preference.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken broth with a rich vegetable broth and discard the chicken. Adding extra vegetables like celery and mushrooms helps keep the soup hearty and full of flavor.
Should I add celery to my Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Celery is a classic addition that provides a subtle crunch and aromatic depth. Feel free to add one or two stalks, sliced thin, with the carrots when you start cooking the broth to enrich the flavor profile.
How long does homemade chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, homemade chicken noodle soup remains fresh for about three days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup to brighten your day and soothe your spirit. This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is simple, quick, and immensely satisfying—a true kitchen staple you’ll return to time and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy go-to meal.
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Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Classic homemade chicken noodle soup featuring tender egg noodles, shredded chicken, and sliced carrots simmered in rich chicken broth. This comforting soup is quick to prepare, making it ideal for cozy nights and soothing sick days.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil Broth and Carrots: In a large pot, bring the 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup sliced carrots to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Noodles and Chicken: Once boiling, add 2 cups of egg noodles along with 2 cups of shredded chicken to the pot, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer and Season: Let the soup cook for 10 minutes until noodles are tender and carrots are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Add celery slices for a classic flavor variation.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt content in the soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
