There’s nothing quite as comforting or satisfying as a steaming bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. This beloved recipe has soothed generations with its tender chicken, savory broth, and slurp-worthy noodles, all enriched with bright, fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, feeding hungry family members, or simply craving a bit of cozy nostalgia, Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the timeless remedy and the ultimate taste of home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup lies in its honest, straightforward ingredients. Each item on the list brings a special element – from savory depth to vibrant color, and every spoonful blends comfort with wholesomeness. Let’s meet the key players making this soup such a staple!
- Olive Oil: Use a good olive oil to start your base with a gentle, savory richness that lifts your soup above the ordinary.
- Onion (diced): The humble onion infuses the broth with sweetness and depth, making every bite aromatic.
- Carrots (peeled and sliced): Carrots add sweetness and that iconic orange pop, not to mention extra nutrition.
- Celery (sliced): No Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is complete without celery’s herbal crunch and subtle earthiness.
- Garlic (minced): For a subtle punch and lovely aroma; don’t skip the garlic, it builds flavor from the start!
- Chicken Broth: Choose a quality, low-sodium broth so you can adjust the seasoning your way – it forms the soothing soul of the soup.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken: Tender, juicy chicken is the heart of this soup – rotisserie works wonders for ease and flavor.
- Egg Noodles: These chewy, soft noodles soak up all the savory broth – cook them just until tender for best texture.
- Dried Thyme: Thyme brings a subtle earthiness that’s classic for this dish, so don’t be shy with the pinch!
- Dried Parsley: This herb adds a gentle lift and color, harmonizing all the savory notes beautifully.
- Salt: A little seasoning makes the flavors shine – taste near the end and adjust as needed.
- Black Pepper: For just the right kick and warmth, freshly ground makes a world of difference.
- Lemon Juice (optional): A splash at the end adds a gentle brightness and cuts through the richness – highly recommended!
- Fresh Parsley for Garnish: Sprinkle over the top for vibrant color and instant freshness.
How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating up your olive oil in a large, sturdy pot over medium heat. This is where the magic starts! Toss in your diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, letting them sizzle and soften together. Give it about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step not only unlocks their natural sweetness but also forms the aromatic base that sets the tone for the whole soup.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Once your kitchen fills with that inviting aroma, stir in your minced garlic. Cook for just about a minute, until the fragrance blooms. Garlic cooks fast, so keep an eye (and nose) out – you want it soft and golden, not brown or bitter.
Step 3: Bring in the Broth
Now pour in your chicken broth and turn up the heat. Bringing the pot to a gentle boil melds all those savory flavors. This bubbling stage is where anticipation builds as everything comes together into a classic, golden elixir.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Herbs
Add your cooked, shredded chicken right into the pot, then sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to distribute those aromatic herbs all throughout. Drop the heat to a simmer and let the soup quietly bubble for 10 minutes. This gives the flavors time to marry and infuse the broth.
Step 5: Noodle Time
Gently add your egg noodles, stirring so they don’t clump together. Simmer for 6 to 8 minutes, or just until the noodles are soft and tender. They’ll soak up that gorgeous broth, so don’t wander off at this stage!
Step 6: Brighten and Taste
If you’re using lemon juice, now’s the moment to stir it in. It adds an irresistible brightness that lifts the whole bowl. Taste the soup and adjust your salt and pepper if needed. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes, giving every flavor a chance to mingle.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before ladling into bowls, sprinkle with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley. This makes every portion pop with color and fresh, herbal aroma – just what you want from Classic Chicken Noodle Soup.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the classic finisher, but don’t hesitate to add a twist! Try a grind of black pepper, a squeeze of lemon, or even a tiny drizzle of good olive oil. For a heartier vibe, toss on some extra shredded chicken or a handful of baby spinach just before serving for a beautiful green touch.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with the right side can make your meal feel truly special. A hunk of crusty sourdough, a buttered baguette, or a warm biscuit works wonders to sop up the flavorful broth. If you want something a little lighter, try a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving the soup in bread bowls for a fun and rustic twist. For gatherings, ladle the soup into individual mugs – it’s cozy and portable! Add a playful touch by swirling a bit of pesto or herbed yogurt into the top of each bowl before garnishing with fresh parsley. It’s proof that comfort food can be both classic and creative.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover Classic Chicken Noodle Soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to four days. If possible, store the noodles separately so they maintain their texture, but even combined, this soup delivers on comfort each time.
Freezing
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup freezes beautifully, provided you leave the noodles out (they tend to go mushy after freezing). Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook up fresh noodles to add just before serving.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot, stirring so the chicken and noodles heat evenly. Add a splash of water or extra broth if the soup seems too thick. For smaller servings, the microwave works well – just heat in short bursts and stir in between for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! Slice or dice raw chicken breasts or thighs and sauté them with the vegetables until cooked through before adding broth. This not only saves a step but lets the chicken infuse the soup with even more savory flavor.
What type of noodles work best for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup?
Egg noodles are the traditional choice for their tender, slightly chewy bite that holds up well in soup. If you don’t have them, you can use rotini, or even small shells for a fun twist – just monitor cook times as different shapes cook at different rates.
Can I make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free variety, such as rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well, and follow the same steps for a delicious and comforting result.
How do I keep noodles from soaking up too much broth?
For the best texture, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to each bowl right before serving. This keeps them perfectly al dente and prevents the soup from turning starchy or thick if stored overnight.
What’s the secret to extra flavorful Classic Chicken Noodle Soup?
Building flavor by sautéing the vegetables until golden and letting the broth simmer with herbs is key. Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness, use a quality chicken broth, and don’t be afraid to finish with lots of fresh herbs for the most mouthwatering depth.
Final Thoughts
Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup? This recipe is a true hug in a bowl, full of old-fashioned charm and cozy flavor. Whether it’s your first batch or your hundredth, don’t miss out on making this beloved classic a staple in your home – you’ll be surprised how easy and rewarding it is!
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Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and classic chicken noodle soup recipe that is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This homemade soup is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in chicken broth, add shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add noodles: Stir in egg noodles and cook for 6–8 minutes until tender.
- Finish and serve: Add lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- To prevent noodles from becoming mushy, cook them separately and add just before serving if making ahead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
