Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

The Heartwarming Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe You Need

Chicken noodle soup stands as the ultimate remedy for chilly days and weary souls.

Warm, golden broth embraces tender strips of protein with cascading noodles that promise instant comfort.

Generations have turned to this classic dish when seeking solace and nourishment during challenging times.

Fragrant herbs and delicate vegetables intermingle, creating a symphony of flavors that whisper home and healing.

Rich nutritional elements change this simple preparation into a powerful wellness elixir that soothes both body and spirit.

Homemade versions elevate the experience beyond store-bought alternatives, infusing each spoonful with love and intention.

Crafting this timeless recipe connects you to culinary traditions that have sustained families through countless seasons.

Why Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Feels Like Home

  • Boost Comfort Levels: This chicken noodle soup delivers pure warmth and nostalgia with every spoonful, perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather.
  • Quick and Easy Preparation: The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques that even beginner cooks can master confidently.
  • Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Packed with tender vegetables, protein-rich chicken, and hearty noodles, this soup provides a balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul while minimizing kitchen cleanup.
  • Flavor-Packed Simplicity: The combination of aromatic herbs like thyme and parsley, along with perfectly sautéed vegetables, creates a depth of flavor that transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Noodle Soup

Soup Base:
  • Chicken Broth: The main liquid foundation that provides depth and richness to the soup.
  • Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing vegetables and adding a subtle flavor base.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic soup aromatics that create a flavor-packed foundation with subtle sweetness and texture.
  • Garlic: Adds robust, intense flavor and aromatic complexity to the soup.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb for garnishing and adding a pop of color and light flavor.
Protein and Noodles:
  • Rotisserie Chicken: Convenient, pre-cooked protein that adds substantial, tender meat to the soup.
  • Egg Noodles: Classic soup noodle that provides comforting texture and hearty substance.
Seasonings:
  • Dried Thyme: Earthy herb that adds subtle, warm undertones to the soup.
  • Bay Leaf: Provides deep, complex background flavor during simmering.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance overall taste profile.

How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Vessel

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, creating a perfect base for your soup adventure.

Step 2: Transform Vegetables into Flavor Builders

Add and sauté the following ingredients until tender:
  • Chopped onions
  • Carrots
  • Celery

Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Awaken the Garlic

Introduce minced garlic to the vegetable mixture and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.

Step 4: Craft the Liquid Foundation

Pour in chicken broth and blend with these seasoning companions:
  • Dried thyme
  • Dried parsley
  • Bay leaf
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let flavors dance together for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Welcome the Noodles

Add egg noodles to the simmering broth and cook for 8-10 minutes until they reach perfect tenderness.

Step 6: Introduce Protein Magic

Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and warm for 3-5 minutes.

Step 7: Final Flourish and Serve

Remove bay leaf from the soup.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Ladle into warm bowls.

Garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve piping hot and enjoy your comforting creation!

Tips to Make Chicken Soup Extra Flavorful

  • Vegetable Sauté Secrets: Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
  • Flavor Layering Technique: Toast herbs briefly before adding liquid to intensify their aromatic qualities and deepen the soup's overall taste profile.
  • Noodle Timing Trick: Cook noodles directly in the broth to absorb maximum flavor, but avoid overcooking to prevent mushy texture.
  • Chicken Selection Strategy: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and rich, pre-seasoned meat that adds instant depth to the soup.
  • Garnish Enhancement: Sprinkle fresh parsley just before serving to add a bright, fresh note and boost the soup's visual appeal and taste complexity.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Store Leftovers: Transfer cooled chicken noodle soup to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking to preserve freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume refrigerated soup within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.
  • Refrigeration Method: Place soup in shallow containers to help it cool quickly and evenly. Remove bay leaf before storing. Leave a small space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during chilling.
  • Reheating Technique: Warm refrigerated soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup seems too thick. Heat until the soup reaches 165°F to ensure food safety. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make noodles soggy and change the soup's texture.

What Goes Well with Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Pair with Crusty Bread: Grab a warm, crusty sourdough or rustic baguette to soak up the rich, flavorful broth. The bread's crispy exterior and soft interior perfectly complement the tender chicken and soft noodles.
  • Wine Companion: Choose a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These crisp wines cut through the soup's richness and provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken and vegetables.
  • Zesty Side Salad: Create a simple green salad with mixed leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette. The bright, tangy flavors will balance the soup's warm and comforting profile, adding a fresh element to the meal.
  • Herbal Tea Finale: End your meal with a soothing chamomile or ginger tea. These warm beverages continue the comforting theme of the chicken noodle soup and aid digestion after a satisfying meal.

Chicken Noodle Soup Variations for Every Season

  • Hearty Herb Fusion: Replace dried thyme with fresh rosemary and sage, adding a robust woodland flavor profile that elevates the traditional chicken soup.
  • Mediterranean Zinger: Incorporate diced zucchini, swap egg noodles for orzo pasta, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired version with bright, tangy notes.
  • Spicy Southwest Kick: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and cilantro to transform the soup into a zesty southwestern style. Top with crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch and regional flair.
  • Creamy Coconut Comfort: Blend in coconut milk for a rich, velvety texture and introduce ginger and turmeric for an anti-inflammatory, immunity-boosting alternative that feels incredibly soothing.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Homemade chicken noodle soup warms hearts with its classic medley of tender chicken, delicate noodles, and rich broth. Gentle herbs and fresh vegetables create a soulful dish that embraces you like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded

Vegetables:

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid and Seasonings:

  • 8 cups (1.89 liters) chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cups (240 grams) egg noodles
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil (30 milliliters or ) in a substantial cooking vessel over moderate temperature, creating a foundation for the aromatic soup base.
  2. Incorporate finely diced onions, julienned carrots, and sliced celery, gently sautéing until vegetables soften and release their delicate flavors, approximately 5-6 minutes.
  3. Introduce minced garlic, stirring continuously to prevent burning and allowing the aromatics to develop their rich essence for an additional 45-60 seconds.
  4. Pour in chicken broth (1.4 liters or ), blending dried thyme, chopped parsley, whole bay leaf, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper into the liquid landscape.
  5. Allow the mixture to gently simmer, creating a harmonious flavor profile for 8-10 minutes, enabling the herbs and spices to infuse throughout the broth.
  6. Delicately add wide egg noodles (340 grams or ) directly into the simmering liquid, cooking until they reach perfect al dente tenderness, typically 7-9 minutes.
  7. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken (340 grams or ), warming thoroughly for 2-3 minutes to integrate the protein seamlessly into the soup.
  8. Extract the bay leaf, taste and recalibrate seasonings with additional salt and pepper as needed for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
  9. Ladle the steaming soup into warmed serving bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley to enhance visual appeal and provide a final herbal note.

Notes

  • Elevate flavor by sautéing vegetables until they’re tender and fragrant, releasing natural sweetness and depth.
  • Simmer seasonings gently to allow herbs and spices to infuse the broth with comforting, aromatic notes.
  • Choose rotisserie chicken for quick, convenient protein that adds rich, pre-cooked flavor to the soup.
  • Egg noodles provide perfect texture and classic comfort, absorbing the delicious broth while staying delightfully tender.
  • Fresh parsley garnish adds bright color and a crisp, herbal finish that lifts the entire dish.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, knowing the soup often tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 245 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star