This Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It features tender chicken, fresh veggies, and noodles swimming in a zesty broth that will warm you right up!
Whenever I need a pick-me-up, this soup is my go-to. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip it up even on a busy day. Just be ready for the spice that gives it a fun kick! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness to the soup. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or even coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have the time. But store-bought works perfectly too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, vegetable broth is a solid substitute.
Cooked Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a vegetarian option, swap with chickpeas or tofu. They soak in the flavors well!
Noodles: Wide egg noodles give a wonderful texture, but feel free to try rice noodles for a gluten-free option or whole wheat noodles for extra fiber.
Spices: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. If you like it really spicy, add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce instead!
How Do I Make Sure My Vegetables Stay Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the vegetables just right is key to getting the best flavor in your soup. Here’s how:
- Start by sautéing the onions until translucent; this builds a strong base flavor.
- Add the garlic quickly after so it doesn’t burn, which can make it bitter.
- Let the carrots and celery cook until they’re starting to soften but still crisp for texture.
- Always add more delicate veggies like spinach near the end to keep them vibrant and tender without overcooking.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 4 ounces wide egg noodles or your preferred noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon (optional for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup takes around 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This will set a wonderful foundation for your soup!
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally, just until the vegetables start to soften up nicely.
3. Mix in the Spices:
Now it’s time to spice things up! Add in the crushed red pepper flakes and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine and let it cook for about 1 minute, allowing those beautiful aromas to fill your kitchen.
4. Bring on the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will help all the flavors meld beautifully together. Once boiling, it’s time to add the noodles!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes until they are al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so they don’t stick!
6. Stir in Chicken and Greens:
When the noodles are almost done, stir in the shredded chicken and chopped spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and chicken is heated through. Your kitchen should smell fantastic by now!
7. Season and Add Lemon:
Give your soup a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re feeling adventurous, stir in the fresh lemon juice for a pop of brightness right before serving!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the delicious soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve it hot with some crusty bread or a wedge of lemon on the side. Enjoy this cozy comfort food with a smile!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. The best way to thaw it is overnight in the refrigerator or using the quick method: place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in your soup.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want a milder soup, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You can add a pinch of cayenne later if you want a little kick. For extra heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce along with the broth!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if it seems too thick, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. However, if you know you’ll have leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to each bowl when serving. This helps prevent them from getting too soggy when reheating!
