Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort

Memories of cozy chicken noodle soup often transport me back to my grandmother’s kitchen.

Warmth radiates from steaming bowls filled with tender meat and silky noodles.

Healing aromas drift through home spaces, promising comfort and restoration.

Soft vegetables peek between golden broth layers, whispering stories of nurturing traditions.

Medical professionals have long celebrated this classic dish for its immune-boosting qualities.

Simple ingredients combine into a magical elixir that soothes both body and soul.

You deserve this gentle, restorative meal that feels like a loving embrace.

FAQs

  • How nutritious is chicken noodle soup?

This soup is packed with protein from chicken, vitamins from vegetables like carrots and celery, and provides a balanced meal with complex carbohydrates from egg noodles. It’s a great source of essential nutrients that support immune health.

  • Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually develop and become more rich when the soup sits overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

  • Is this soup good when you're feeling sick?

Absolutely! Chicken noodle soup is known for its healing properties. The warm broth helps hydration, chicken provides protein for strength, and vegetables offer vitamins that can help boost your immune system during illness.

Hearty and Classic: Chicken Noodle Soup Essentials

  • Comfort in a Bowl: Classic chicken noodle soup delivers ultimate warmth and nostalgia, perfect for soothing souls during chilly days or when feeling under the weather.
  • Super Simple Preparation: Minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking steps make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
  • Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Packed with protein-rich chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, this soup provides a balanced meal that nourishes and satisfies hunger effortlessly.
  • Customizable Comfort Food: Easily adaptable recipe allows personal touches like adding extra herbs, switching noodle types, or incorporating additional vegetables to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Ingredients for Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup

For the Protein:
  • Chicken: A tender, lean protein that provides the hearty base for this comforting soup.
For the Vegetables:
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: A classic trio of vegetables that builds a rich, flavorful foundation for the soup.
  • Garlic: A fragrant ingredient that adds depth and aromatic warmth to the overall dish.
For the Liquid Base:
  • Chicken Broth, Water: Creates a light, savory liquid that helps cook the ingredients and develop the soup's flavor.
For the Herbs:
  • Parsley, Thyme: Fresh herbs that contribute a bright, earthy note to the soup's taste profile.
For the Noodles:
  • Egg Noodles: A soft, comforting pasta that adds texture and substance to the soup.
For the Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the soup's overall flavor.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch

Step 1: Chop and Prepare Ingredients

Grab a cutting board and sharp knife. Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces.

Slice carrots and celery into thin, bite-sized chunks. Mince the garlic until it’s finely chopped.

Cut chicken into tender, bite-sized pieces that will cook evenly.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Grab a large pot and pour in chicken broth and water.

Toss in the chopped:
  • Chicken
  • Onion
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Garlic

Sprinkle fresh parsley and thyme into the pot. Stir everything together so the ingredients get friendly with each other.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat. Let the mixture bubble and dance until it reaches a full boil.

Lower the heat and let the soup gently simmer. The ingredients will start to meld together, creating a rich, comforting flavor.

Allow this magical transformation to happen for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Add Noodle Magic

Drop the egg noodles into the simmering soup.

Watch them swirl and soften as they cook. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook for 5-7 minutes until the noodles become perfectly tender and delicious.

Step 5: Season and Perfect

Take a small taste of the soup.

Add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Remember, you’re the chef – trust your taste buds and adjust seasonings until the soup sings with flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Warm Hearts

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve immediately and watch everyone’s face light up with comfort and joy.

Pro Tips for Flavorful Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Swap chicken breasts for rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the soup.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and create a healthier version of the classic recipe.
  • Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
  • Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice at the end for brightness and depth of flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, but keep noodles separate to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Variations to Upgrade Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Vegetarian Noodle Soup: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap egg noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Spicy Asian-Inspired Variation: Add sriracha sauce, ginger, and green onions for a zesty kick, using rice noodles and sesame oil for extra flavor.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice, using bone broth for added protein and reducing overall carbohydrate content.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Pair with Crusty Bread: Grab a warm, freshly baked baguette or sourdough slice to dip into the rich, comforting broth, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
  • Complement with Crisp White Wine: Choose a light, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the soup's heartiness without overpowering its delicate chicken and vegetable notes.
  • Match with Tangy Side Salad: Toss together a simple green salad with mixed leafy greens, cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette to provide a bright, acidic contrast to the warm, soothing soup.

Storage Advice for Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the soup is completely cooled before sealing.
  • Transfer soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing noodles separately, as they may become mushy when thawed.
  • Pour soup into a pot, heat over medium-low temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick. Heat until steaming and reaching 165°F.
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Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe


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4.7 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comfort springs from this classic chicken noodle soup recipe, warming hearts with homemade goodness. Fragrant herbs, tender chicken, and silky noodles create a soothing bowl that connects you with cherished memories of home-cooked love.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables:

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid and Noodles:

  • 8 cups (1.9 liters) chicken broth
  • 2 cups (473 milliliters) water
  • 1 cup (85 grams) uncooked egg noodles

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients by finely dicing onions, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces. Mince garlic cloves and slice chicken into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
  2. Pour chicken broth and water into a large pot. Add chopped vegetables, minced garlic, chicken pieces, parsley, and thyme. Gently stir to distribute ingredients evenly.
  3. Heat mixture over medium-high flame until liquid reaches a rolling boil, approximately 5-7 minutes. Reduce temperature to low, creating a gentle simmer.
  4. Allow soup to simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, ensuring chicken is thoroughly cooked and vegetables become tender. Periodically skim any foam from surface.
  5. Introduce egg noodles directly into simmering liquid. Cook for 6-8 minutes until noodles reach al dente texture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Carefully taste soup and modulate seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust flavors to personal preference.
  7. Remove pot from heat. Let soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Ladle into warm serving bowls and garnish with fresh parsley sprigs.

Notes

  • Swap regular egg noodles with gluten-free options for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting soup.
  • Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking, creating a more colorful and nutrient-dense meal.
  • Control sodium levels by using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting salt carefully, making the soup heart-friendly and diet-conscious.
  • Enhance flavor complexity by using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought, which adds deeper, richer taste and more nutritional value.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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