Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish made with tender chicken, noodles, and veggies in a warm, clear broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
I like to add a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor. Sometimes, I sneak in a few extra noodles just because I love them!
For an easy meal, I make a big pot and keep leftovers in the fridge—reheat and enjoy anytime you want a cozy bowl.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs—it’s lean and cooks quickly. For a richer flavor, try chicken tenders or leftovers from roasted chicken. Poultry thighs give a juicier, more tender bite if you prefer.
Egg Noodles: These thin, flat noodles bring soft texture. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute. I like broad egg noodles for heartier bites, but rice noodles are a lighter option if needed.
Broth: Chicken broth forms the soup’s base, adding depth. Use low-sodium broth to control salt or try vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. Homemade broth is even more flavorful if you have time to make it.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery add crunch and sweetness. Feel free to swap in zucchini or frozen mixed vegetables—they cook fast and make the soup vibrant. Fresh is best, but frozen works well too.
Herbs & Seasonings: Garlic, salt, pepper, and a bit of parsley brighten everything up. Fresh herbs are ideal, but dried can work if you crush them well. A dash of hot sauce or lemon juice can add a nice zing, too.
How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?
Cook chicken gently to keep it juicy. Simmer it in broth on low heat until it’s just cooked through—about 10-15 minutes for breasts. Overcooking makes it tough. Remove chicken and shred or chop just before adding back to the soup.
- Start with cold broth to gently cook the chicken.
- Check doneness at around 10 minutes.
- Take out chicken once fully cooked to prevent drying out.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 ounces egg noodles
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Total: 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables
Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Gather all ingredients before cooking.
2. Sauté the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften.
3. Add garlic and broth
Stir in garlic. Cook for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Add chicken and noodles
Stir in cooked chicken and noodles. Reduce heat. Simmer for 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
5. Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust. Serve hot. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!
