If you are craving that warm, soul-soothing bowl of goodness, this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s more than just a soup — it’s a heartfelt embrace in a bowl, packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a fragrant medley of vegetables and herbs that create a delicate balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, want to cozy up on a chilly evening, or simply enjoy a timeless comfort meal, this recipe will become your go-to for all those moments when you need a little extra warmth and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to crafting the perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup. Each element here plays a crucial role, from the aromatic vegetables that build the foundation to the tender chicken and toothsome noodles that make it satisfying.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds a silky richness and helps soften the vegetables while sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced (½-inch pieces): Bring subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- 2 celery stalks, diced (½-inch pieces): Adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch and balances the sweetness of carrots.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic layer that uplifts the broth.
- 8 cups chicken stock or broth (preferably low-sodium): The heart of the soup, creating a rich and nourishing liquid.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie chicken works well): Tender protein boosts the soup’s substance and flavor.
- 2 cups egg noodles (or other noodles of choice): For that classic, comforting chewiness that makes this soup so memorable.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs): Brings a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 2 bay leaves: Add subtle herbal undertones during simmering.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A fresh, bright finish to the rich soup.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a fresh finish): Adds a gentle zing that brightens the entire bowl.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking them for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and start to release their sweet aromas. This step builds the incredible foundation for your soup — the softened veggies will blend into the broth and create that signature comforting flavor.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Next, stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook them briefly, about 1 to 2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant but before it browns. These fresh herbs and spices will infuse the soup with delicate, earthy notes that elevate it beyond basic chicken noodle soup.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Add Chicken
Pour the chicken stock into the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Then add the shredded chicken, giving the soup its hearty protein punch. Season with salt and pepper, remembering to taste as you go. Allow the soup to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so all those delicious flavors can mingle perfectly.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Once your soup has simmered and the flavors are well combined, add the egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7 to 9 minutes, until the noodles are tender but still have a pleasant bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking — you want every noodle to be perfectly cooked and ready to soak up that flavorful broth.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
After the noodles are cooked, remove the bay leaves and taste your soup one last time to adjust any seasoning. Stir in freshly chopped parsley and a splash of lemon juice if you like a little brightness to balance the savory richness. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, ready to warm your heart and your belly.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes make all the difference when presenting this soup. Fresh parsley is a must — it adds a pop of green and a fresh flavor that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick without overwhelming the classic taste.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, whether it’s a warm baguette or your favorite sourdough loaf for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, or try garlic toast for that extra comfort food factor. Whichever sides you choose, they’ll complement the soup and round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving homemade chicken noodle soup in classic bowls is timeless, but you can get a bit creative for special occasions. Try serving it in hollowed-out bread bowls for extra charm and flavor. Mason jars or clear mugs work beautifully for casual lunches, allowing the colorful layers to shine through. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a lemon wedge on the side invites your guests to personalize their bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers to maintain freshness, and remember that the noodles can soak up broth and get mushy over time, so you might prefer cooking noodles fresh when reheating if possible.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but for best texture, freeze without the noodles and add fresh ones when you reheat. Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for easier reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra broth or water if it feels too thick. If freezing without noodles, drop fresh noodles directly into the pot and cook until tender, so your soup tastes just like the first batch.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that brings tender, flavorful meat to your soup without extra effort. Just shred it and add it during the simmering step for a delicious, easy meal.
What types of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are classic and give a nice texture, but feel free to use any noodle you love: spaghetti broken into pieces, ditalini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
You can make a delicious vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and replacing chicken with hearty vegetables or plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas. Just skip the chicken and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! Sauté the vegetables and cook the broth and chicken ahead of time, then store it all separately from the noodles. When ready to eat, cook noodles fresh and combine everything to keep optimal texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley or lemon juice?
No worries—dried parsley or other fresh herbs like cilantro or chives can work as substitutes. Lemon juice adds brightness but can be skipped if you prefer a more traditional flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Making Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic Recipe is like crafting a warm hug from the kitchen. It’s approachable, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring during quiet moments. So gather your ingredients, pull out your pot, and dive in—it’s soup season every season with this timeless favorite.
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Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting classic recipe featuring tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. It’s a perfect warm meal for any day, especially when you’re craving something nourishing and hearty.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced (½-inch pieces)
- 2 celery stalks, diced (½-inch pieces)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken stock or broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Chicken and Noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or other noodles of choice)
Finishing Touches
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a fresh finish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add the shredded cooked chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually about 7-9 minutes), until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve: Once the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaves and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice, if using. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for cooked shredded chicken.
- Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- The lemon juice is optional but adds a nice fresh finish to the soup.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles.
