How to Make the Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

How To Make The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

When It Comes to Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, chicken noodle soup is a true classic. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, fighting the winter chill, or simply desiring a warm and substantial dinner, this homemade chicken noodle soup will satisfy. It’s the ideal recipe to add to your repertoire, as it uses fresh, healthful ingredients.

Why Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Sure, you could get a can of soup from the supermarket, but nothing beats the creamy, homemade version. Here’s why:

• Healthier Ingredients: You may customize the salt, fat, and ingredients.
• Customizable: Change the seasonings, add more vegetables, or use your preferred noodles.
• Soul-Warming: There’s something special about homemade chicken noodle soup that canned counterparts cannot match.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter
• 1 medium, diced onion
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Two medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• Two celery stalks, chopped
• 8 cups chicken broth, homemade or store-bought
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is excellent!)
• 2 cups egg noodles or other pasta of your choosing
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley as garnish)
• Add salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• Squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
• Bay leaf adds depth of taste
• Spinach or other greens for more nutrition

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by creating a tasty base for your soup.

• In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Pro Tip: Sautéing your vegetables properly releases their inherent sweetness, which is essential for making a wonderful soup!

2. Add the Broth and Spices

Once the vegetables have softened, it’s time to add the liquid gold.

• Pour in the chicken broth and mix thoroughly.
• Add the dried thyme, parsley, and (optional) bay leaf.
• Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Combine the Chicken and Noodles

• Stir in the shredded chicken and noodles. Allow them to cook together for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are soft.
• Be careful not to overcook the noodles, which can become mushy.

Pro Tip: If you plan on storing leftovers, prepare the noodles separately and divide them into individual servings. This prevents them from soaking up all the broth in the fridge!

4. Taste and Adjust

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup tastes a little flat, a dab of lemon juice will perk it up.
• Remove the bay leaf (if you used it).

5. Serve with Garnish

Ladle the soup into dishes and top with fresh parsley or grated parmesan cheese. Serve with fresh bread or crackers for a truly homey supper.

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, make your own chicken broth to take this soup to the next level. Simply cook chicken bones with onions, carrots, celery, and seasonings for several hours.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook until al dente, especially if you intend to reheat the soup later.
• Shred Your Own Chicken: Store-bought rotisserie chicken is convenient, but cooking your own chicken breasts or thighs results in a deeper flavor.
• Customize the Vegetables: Make it your own by adding zucchini, peas, or corn.

FAQs About Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the second day since the flavors blend together. Simply place it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to four days.

2. Can you freeze chicken noodle soup?

You can freeze the soup without the noodles. When ready to serve, defrost the soup, reheat it, and stir in newly cooked noodles.

3. Which noodles work best for chicken noodle soup?

Egg noodles are the traditional choice, but you can use any pasta you want—spaghetti, rotini, or even gluten-free noodles work well.

4. Can I make it gluten free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your broth is labeled gluten-free.

A Bowl of Comfort Awaits

Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With delicate chicken, precisely cooked noodles, and substantial vegetables, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you have a cold or simply need a warming pick-me-up, this soup will always hit the spot.

So take your pot and start cooking—you’ll never go back to canned soup!