Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

Comfort wraps around you like a warm blanket when this homestyle chicken noodle soup bubbles on the stove.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen drift through the air with each savory simmer.

Tender chunks of chicken nestle among soft, ribbony noodles in a golden broth.

Fragrant herbs whisper promises of healing and nourishment.

Subtle seasonings dance across your palate, creating a melody of classic flavors.

Simple ingredients combine to craft something magical and restorative.

One spoonful transports you to a world of pure, wholesome deliciousness that beckons you to ladle up pure comfort.

How to Simmer a Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Kickstart the Vegetable Dance

• Grab olive oil
• Onions
• Carrots
• Celery

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss chopped onions, carrots, and celery into the pot. Let them sizzle and soften for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn slightly translucent and tender.

Step 2: Infuse Aromatic Wonders

• Minced garlic
• Thyme
• Oregano
• Bay leaf

Sprinkle minced garlic into the vegetable mix. Shake in thyme and oregano, then drop the bay leaf. Stir everything quickly and let the herbs release their magical fragrance for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Create Liquid Gold

Pour chicken broth into the pot. Crank up the heat until the liquid bubbles, then lower it to a gentle simmer. Let the broth develop its rich flavors for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Welcome Protein and Pasta

• Shredded chicken
• Egg noodles

Slide the shredded chicken into the simmering broth. Add egg noodles and let them swim and soften for 8-10 minutes until they’re perfectly tender.

Step 5: Final Flavor Flourish

Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. For an extra zing, squeeze in some lemon juice if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips for Flavorful Broth and Tender Noodles

• Boost Vegetable Flavor: Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and release maximum flavor during sautéing.
• Customize Protein Options: Swap chicken with tofu or rotisserie chicken for different dietary preferences or quick meal preparation.
• Perfect Herb Balance: Use fresh thyme and oregano for more intense, aromatic herb notes compared to dried herbs.
• Control Soup Consistency: Adjust broth quantity to create thicker or thinner soup based on personal preference and comfort level.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare soup in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify.

How to Save and Serve Soup Later

• Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool soup completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for maximum 2-3 months, leaving some space for expansion.
• Gently warm soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain noodle texture.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to restore original consistency, as noodles absorb liquid during storage.

What Works with Chicken Noodle Soup Best

• Slice thick, rustic sourdough bread to soak up the rich, savory broth and add delightful texture to each spoonful.
• Select a chilled, unoaked Chardonnay to balance the soup's warmth with its light, refreshing acidity and subtle fruit notes.
• Toss crisp green apple slices, mixed greens, and a light vinaigrette to provide a bright, tangy contrast to the hearty chicken soup.
• Spread herb-infused butter on the side bread, adding an extra layer of richness and complementary fresh herb flavors to the meal.

Noodle Soup Variations for a Fresh Spin

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free rice noodles or spiralized zucchini to make the soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Swap chicken with firm tofu or white beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based protein option.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute noodles with cauliflower rice or spiralized daikon radish to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the soup's comforting texture.
• Instant Pot Method: Combine all ingredients in the pressure cooker, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release for a faster preparation technique.

FAQs on Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

• Why use fresh thyme and oregano in this soup?

Fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs. They add a subtle, aromatic complexity that enhances the overall taste of the chicken noodle soup.

• Can I make this soup with different types of chicken?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or even poach chicken breasts specifically for this recipe. Shredded or diced chicken works perfectly.

• Is this soup healthy?

Absolutely! This homestyle chicken noodle soup is packed with vegetables, lean protein, and nutritious broth. It’s a balanced meal that provides essential nutrients and helps boost your immune system.

• How can I make the soup more filling?

Add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, increase the amount of chicken, or serve with a side of whole grain bread to make the soup more substantial and satisfying.

Why Chicken Noodle Soup Is the Go-To Comfort Bowl

• Warm, hearty soup that hugs your soul with every spoonful.
• Minimal prep work and simple steps make this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated techniques.
• Ready in under 30 minutes, this chicken noodle soup delivers a nutritious meal faster than ordering takeout or waiting for delivery.
• Kid-friendly ingredients and classic flavors ensure everyone from picky eaters to grandparents will happily enjoy this nostalgic dish.

Ingredients That Make This Noodle Soup Shine

• Chicken Broth: The liquid foundation of the soup, rich in flavor and warmth for the entire dish.
• Bay Leaf: Adds a subtle herbal depth and aromatic complexity to the broth.

• Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic soup trio that provides sweetness, color, and traditional soup flavor. Fresh, crisp vegetables work best.
• Garlic: Adds sharp, aromatic flavor and enhances overall taste profile.

• Chicken: Shredded protein that makes the soup hearty and satisfying. Rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly.
• Egg Noodles: Classic soup noodle that adds texture and substance. Wide or medium noodles recommended.

• Thyme, Oregano: Dried herbs that bring earthy and slightly peppery notes to the soup.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.

• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic touch that can freshen the entire soup.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds color and a light, fresh herb garnish.

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and creating flavor base.

Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets nostalgia in this hearty Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup, a classic remedy that warms hearts and soothes souls. Packed with tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth, you’ll find solace in each spoonful of this timeless family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)

Vegetables:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings:

• 8 cups (1.9 liters) chicken broth (low sodium)
• 2 cups (473 milliliters) egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

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Instructions

1. Warm olive oil in a spacious pot over medium flame, introducing diced onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to create a fragrant vegetable base.
2. Infuse the mixture with minced garlic, delicate thyme, robust oregano, and a single aromatic bay leaf, allowing the herbs to release their essence for approximately one minute.
3. Pour chicken broth into the vegetable mixture, escalating the heat to achieve a rolling boil before reducing to a gentle simmer for ten minutes.
4. Incorporate tender shredded chicken and delicate egg noodles into the simmering liquid, allowing them to dance and cook together for 8-10 minutes until noodles reach perfect tenderness.
5. Extract the bay leaf from the soup, enhancing the flavor profile with a careful balance of salt and pepper, and optionally brightening the dish with a splash of zesty lemon juice.
6. Transfer the steaming soup into serving bowls, adorning each portion with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, ready to comfort and nourish.

Notes

• Swap out egg noodles for gluten-free alternatives like zucchini noodles or rice noodles to make the soup celiac-friendly.
• Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts to cut down on preparation time and simplify the cooking process.
• Enhance flavor complexity by adding a splash of white wine or a dash of smoked paprika during the vegetable sautéing stage for deeper taste dimensions.
• Make the soup extra nutritious by incorporating additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach, boosting both flavor and nutritional value.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg