Chicken Noodle Soup

This Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. Packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup warms your soul and satisfies your cravings. It’s versatile enough for a cozy family dinner or a quick lunch. The savory broth elevates the flavors, making it a standout recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious soup simmering in no time.
• Flavorful and Nourishing: Each bowl is loaded with wholesome ingredients that create a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this flavorful chicken noodle soup, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This sturdy pot retains heat well, making it perfect for simmering soups evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables for your soup.

Ingredients

This flavorful and cozy chicken noodle soup is packed with tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, crisp celery, onions, and carrots, all simmered in a savory, warm broth.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small yellow onion (diced)
– 3 celery stalks (thinly sliced)
– 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
– 6 cloves garlic (minced)
– 10 to 12 cups low sodium chicken broth (I normally use 12 cups because I like a brothier soup)
– 4 thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 pounds skinless, bone-in chicken breasts
– 1¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
– 10 ounces carba-nada noodles (low carb noodles) (or use regular wide egg noodles)
– chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
– lemon wedges (for serving)

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Heat the Base

Heat the olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven set over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions, sliced celery, and carrots; cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Broth

Add the chicken broth into the pot.
Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon.
Add thyme sprigs and bay leaves; increase heat to high until it simmers.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Introduce the chicken breasts into the simmering broth.
Season with salt and pepper; stir well.
Cover and let it simmer on medium heat for about 25 to 30 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot.
Transfer them to a cutting board to cool slightly before shredding.

Step 5: Add Noodles

At this point, if using regular egg noodles, add them directly into the broth.
Cook for 6 to 7 minutes or until al dente.
If using Carba-Nada noodles, wait until you add back in shredded chicken because they only take about 4 to 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Shred the cooled chicken while waiting on noodle cooking time.
Discard any bones as you shred.
Stir shredded chicken back into the soup; cover and let simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove from heat and discard thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
Taste your soup; adjust salt and pepper if needed for extra flavor.

Step 8: Serve It Up

Ladle your delicious chicken noodle soup into bowls.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving chicken noodle soup is not just about placing it in a bowl. It can be enhanced with various garnishes and sides that complement its warm, savory flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the soup, enhancing its taste.
• Cracked Black Pepper: Sprinkle on top for an extra kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooey cheese pairs wonderfully with the soup’s broth.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances the meal.

Serving Bowls

• Rustic Bowls: Use rustic ceramic bowls to enhance the cozy feel of this comforting dish.
• Mason Jars: For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mason jars.

How to Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating the perfect chicken noodle soup takes practice and a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your homemade version.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with low-sodium chicken broth for better control over seasoning.
• Don’t Rush the Aromatics: Sautéing onions, celery, and carrots properly enhances flavor.
• Shred Chicken While Hot: This ensures easier shredding and keeps it juicy for your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings Last: Taste your soup before adding more salt or pepper; flavors develop as it simmers.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing your chicken noodle soup with complementary side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlicky bread is ideal for sopping up every drop of soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing adds texture and richness to the meal.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side packed with flavor.
5. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: A refreshing, sweet contrast that balances the savory elements of the soup.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken noodle soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Using too little broth: A common error is not using enough broth, resulting in a dry soup. Stick to 10-12 cups for a flavorful and hearty dish.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies too long makes them mushy. Add carrots and celery early, but keep them crisp by not overcooking.
• Ignoring seasoning: Some may forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper. Always season to taste at the end for the best flavor.
• Not shredding chicken properly: Leaving large pieces of chicken can make for an uneven texture. Shred it finely for better distribution throughout the soup.
• Cooking noodles too long: If you add noodles too early, they can become soggy. Follow the cooking time closely to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chicken noodle soup is best eaten within 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with date; can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered oven-safe dish, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chicken noodle soup.

How long does it take to make Chicken Noodle Soup?

It takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 50 minutes of cooking time, making a total of around 65 minutes.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken saves time. Just add it after sautéing the vegetables and skip the initial cooking step for the chicken.

What type of noodles should I use for Chicken Noodle Soup?

You can use egg noodles or low-carb options like carba-nada noodles. Both work well and provide great texture.

Can I customize my Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This chicken noodle soup recipe is comforting and versatile, perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and customizable ingredients make it a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy warm bowls of happiness!