Homemade Chicken Noodle Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s the perfect go-to recipe for cold days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or when you just want something wholesome and delicious. This simple, yet flavorful soup brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a blend of fresh vegetables for a meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting weekend meal. The ingredients are simple, making it an easy recipe to whip up anytime you need something quick but satisfying. It’s a great option for meal prep, and the flavors are easily customizable depending on what you have on hand. You’ll also appreciate that this version uses common pantry staples, so you won’t need to make a special grocery trip!

Ingredients Breakdown

To get the most out of this chicken noodle soup, let’s dive into each ingredient to understand why it’s essential:

• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a rich flavor base for sautéing vegetables.
• Sweet Onion (1 medium, diced small): Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the savory broth.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced small): Adds a nice crunch and freshness to the soup.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and sliced): Offers color, sweetness, and texture.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers depth and a wonderful aroma.
• Kosher Salt (1 ½ teaspoons, divided): Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the broth and chicken.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (48 ounces): Forms the flavorful base of the soup while controlling sodium content.
• Dried Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): Infuses the soup with a well-rounded herbal flavor.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Provides a subtle kick of warmth and spice.
• Dried Egg Noodles (2 ¼ cups): These hearty noodles soak up the broth and add satisfying texture.
• Shredded or Chopped Cooked Chicken Breast (½ pound, about 1 cup): Lean and tender chicken provides protein and richness to the soup.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• Large pot: To cook the soup and ensure enough space for the ingredients to simmer.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping the vegetables and garlic.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure accurate measurements.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring ingredients as they sauté and cook.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 to 60 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.

2. Prepare the Broth:

Once the vegetables are soft and aromatic, pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, black pepper, and the remaining 1 ¼ teaspoons of salt. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow the soup to gently simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Cook the Noodles:

After simmering, add the dried egg noodles to the pot. Let the noodles cook in the simmering broth for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender.

4. Add the Chicken:

Stir in the cooked, shredded or chopped chicken breast, allowing it to heat through. This should only take about 2 minutes. Once the chicken is heated, the soup is ready to serve.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it while it’s hot!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup Every Time

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Egg noodles can become mushy if left to simmer for too long. Make sure to cook them until just tender.
• Use low-sodium broth: This gives you better control over the salt levels, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
• Make it heartier: You can add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas if you want to bulk up the soup with more nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Since the chicken is already cooked, you only need to warm it through. If it stays in the hot broth too long, it can become dry and stringy.
• Adding salt too early: Taste the soup before adding the final bit of salt to avoid oversalting, especially since the chicken broth and chicken may already contain sodium.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, garnish your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper. You can serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or a simple side salad to make the meal even more filling. This soup is also fantastic with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a hint of brightness that complements the savory broth.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the noodles. If you plan to store the soup for longer, consider freezing it. Tip: For best results, freeze the soup without the noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating.

Chicken Noodle Soup FAQs

1. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. However, it’s best to freeze the broth and chicken separately from the noodles, as the noodles can become mushy when frozen and reheated.

2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free noodles or use rice instead.

3. How do I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Sauté the vegetables as instructed, then add them along with the broth, seasonings, and chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for comfort food that’s both easy and nourishing. With its simple ingredients and classic flavors, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe to the blog for more delicious homemade recipes!

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