If you are craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is here to brighten your day. With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth, every spoonful brings comfort and nourishment. This recipe is the perfect blend of simple ingredients coming together to create a nostalgic, satisfying meal that feels like home in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first joyful step toward making your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a vital role: from the fresh vegetables adding color and sweetness to the chicken that brings heartiness, and the noodles that soak up all those delightful flavors.
- Chicken (bone-in, skin-on pieces recommended): Provides rich flavor and tender meat for the soup.
- Carrots: Adds sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- Celery stalks: Gives a subtle aromatic crunch to balance the soup.
- Yellow onion: Builds a savory base with its natural sweetness once sautéed.
- Garlic cloves: Enhances depth and warms the soup with a gentle bite.
- Egg noodles: Classic pasta choice that soaks up broth beautifully.
- Chicken broth or stock: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together.
- Fresh thyme and parsley: Bright herbs that lift the soup with fresh, garden notes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the natural flavors.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing vegetables and layering flavors.
How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking them gently until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation that makes the soup so heartwarming.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add your chicken pieces to the pot, searing them briefly to lock in flavor. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. This allows the chicken to cook slowly, infusing the broth with rich, savory goodness that defines the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Add Noodles and Herbs
Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and add your egg noodles along with fresh thyme and parsley. Let the noodles cook until tender but still firm to the bite, so every spoonful tastes perfect.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir, and your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is ready to warm your soul.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan are fantastic garnishes that add a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the broth even more if you want a subtle zing.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls to impress your guests. Or, ladle the soup into colorful mugs for a casual lunch that feels indulgent yet homey.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool completely before storing to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Store it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze the soup without noodles, adding fresh ones when reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat. If frozen noodles were removed before freezing, cook some fresh noodles separately and add them to the warmed soup before serving to enjoy that perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or cooked chicken works beautifully in this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe and can save you time. Just add it during the final steps to warm through without overcooking.
What type of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are the traditional favorite for this soup because they hold their shape well and soak up the broth. However, you can use any pasta you prefer, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients except noodles in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add noodles during the last 30 minutes to prevent them from turning mushy.
How do I make the broth extra flavorful?
Using bone-in chicken pieces enhances the broth’s richness. Simmering with fresh herbs and roasting the vegetables before adding them can also intensify the depth of flavor.
Is this soup healthy?
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is wholesome and nourishing, filled with protein, vegetables, and comforting broth. It’s low in calories and perfect for a balanced meal that feels indulgent and light at the same time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about a bowl of homemade soup, and this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe nails it every time. It’s comforting, delicious, and easy enough to become a go-to on chilly days or whenever you need a little extra warmth. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and feel that simple joy in every spoonful.
