Chicken Noodle Soup: A Classic Comfort Food

Nothing warms the soul like a steaming bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. This timeless recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth infused with herbs and vegetables. Perfect for cold days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or simply craving a comforting meal, this soup is a household favorite for good reason.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Satisfying: Easy to make with wholesome ingredients.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and immune-boosting properties.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup

For the Broth

1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
2 cups egg noodles or any pasta of your choice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

1️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2️⃣ Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3️⃣ Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook according to the package instructions (usually 6-8 minutes).

4️⃣ Add the Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

5️⃣ Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf and stir in the lemon juice (if using) for a fresh finish.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Use Homemade Broth: For the richest flavor, make your own chicken broth using a leftover chicken carcass.
Cook Noodles Separately: To avoid mushy noodles, cook them separately and add them to each serving just before eating.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Why This Recipe Is a Classic

Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food—warming, filling, and nostalgic. The combination of savory broth, tender chicken, and al dente noodles creates a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.