Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious Chicken Noodle Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 medium to large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf (or adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- If using chicken breasts, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. For chicken thighs, you can chop them into chunks or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
- Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add a splash of oil or butter, then sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and celery until they soften and become fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Build the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and water.
- Add the sliced carrots, bay leaf, thyme, and parsley. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Add the prepared chicken pieces into the boiling broth. If using whole thighs, ensure they’re submerged.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the chicken cook for 20–25 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
5. Shred the Chicken
- If you used whole chicken thighs, remove them from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
6. Cook the Egg Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook for 7–9 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Season to Taste
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness, if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, homemade chicken broth adds a depth of flavor that can’t be beaten.
- Adjust the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or zucchini for added variety.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, cook the noodles separately and add them fresh when reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fat: ~8g
- Fiber: ~3g
Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Stands Out
This classic recipe is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. Whether you prefer a rich, savory broth or a lighter, herbaceous flavor, this recipe allows you to tailor it to your taste. The combination of tender chicken, nutrient-rich vegetables, and hearty noodles creates a well-balanced dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Make a pot of this comforting Chicken Noodle Soup today—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
By following this recipe, you’ll achieve a soup that’s not only delicious but also a true crowd-pleaser. Whether for a cozy night in or as a remedy for the common cold, this Chicken Noodle Soup is a must-try!