Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup to comfort you on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. This simple yet satisfying soup is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or a light lunch. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles, it’s a meal that pleases all ages. Today, I’ll walk you through the steps to make this delicious dish with ease and perfection.

Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is quick to prepare and uses wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The flavors are classic, yet the fresh thyme and perfectly seasoned broth make this version of chicken noodle soup stand out. Whether you’re battling a cold, craving something warm, or looking for a nutritious meal, this soup delivers everything you need in a comforting bowl.

Ingredients Breakdown for Chicken Noodle Soup

Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to make this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the base of the soup and helps soften the vegetables.
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory flavor as the soup’s aromatic base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a robust, savory note.
• 2 stalks celery, sliced thinly: Adds texture and balances the sweetness of the carrots.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The backbone of the soup, offering a rich and hearty flavor.
• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: Tender chicken that shreds easily for the perfect soup texture.
• 2 carrots, sliced: Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme: Gives the soup a fragrant, earthy aroma.
• 8 ounces egg noodles: A classic addition that soaks up the broth and provides heartiness.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Chicken Noodle Soup

• Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: To cook all the ingredients evenly.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For prepping the vegetables and chicken.
• Measuring Spoons: To measure out salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Tongs & Forks: For handling and shredding the chicken.
• Ladle: For serving your delicious soup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Follow this simple yet flavorful process to make the perfect Classic Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and sliced celery. Season with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become translucent and fragrant.

2. Simmer the Soup

Add the chicken broth, chicken breasts, carrots, and fresh thyme to the pot. Stir the ingredients together, bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce it to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

3. Shred the Chicken

After 20 minutes, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Once shredded, return the chicken to the soup and stir.

4. Add the Egg Noodles

In a separate pot, cook the egg noodles for one minute less than the package instructions. Drain the noodles and add them to the soup. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes, ensuring the noodles soak up the flavorful broth.

5. Serve

Your chicken noodle soup is now ready! Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly cooked chicken and vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Noodle Soup

• Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles cook quickly, so it’s crucial to add them near the end and slightly undercook them before they go into the soup. This keeps them from becoming mushy.
• Not seasoning the soup properly: Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end. Depending on the saltiness of your broth, you may need to add more salt and pepper.
• Boiling the soup too long: While it’s tempting to let the soup simmer for hours, too much time can cause the vegetables to lose their texture and the chicken to dry out.

Tips for Serving and Presenting Chicken Noodle Soup

Presentation is key to making a simple soup look elegant. Here are a few ideas:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra thyme over the soup before serving to give it a bright, fresh finish.
• Add a Lemon Wedge: Serve the soup with a wedge of lemon on the side for those who like a bit of citrus brightness in their soup.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is the perfect side to dip into the broth.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup stores well, making it great for meal prep. Here’s how to handle your leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store the leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep the noodles separate if you plan to store it longer, as they may become soggy.
• Freeze: You can freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the soup on the stove and cook fresh noodles to stir in.
• Reheat: To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling to keep the chicken tender.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions for Chicken Noodle Soup

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free noodles instead of egg noodles, and make sure your broth is gluten-free.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as spinach, peas, or zucchini to boost the nutritional content.
• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: If you’re short on time, use shredded rotisserie chicken in place of cooking raw chicken breasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Chicken Noodle Soup

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative, adding more flavor due to their higher fat content.

What can I use instead of fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works as a substitute, but reduce the amount to 1/2 teaspoon since dried herbs are more potent.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make this delicious Classic Chicken Noodle Soup, you can enjoy the comfort of homemade soup any time. Whether you’re feeling a little under the weather or just want a cozy meal to warm you up, this soup will do the trick. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make it your own! If you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to share it with friends and subscribe to the blog for more comforting meals.

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