Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm, comforting dish made with tender chicken, soft noodles, and flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something soothing and easy to make.
I like to add extra veggies or even a splash of lemon for a brighter taste. Sometimes I sneak in a little hot sauce for a tiny kick—just to keep things interesting!
For quick serving, I freeze leftovers in small jars. That way, I always have a cup ready when I need a cozy meal fast.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts are leaner. If fresh chicken isn’t available, thawed frozen works fine—just adjust cooking time. For a different twist, try turkey or tofu.
Egg Noodles: These are classic for chicken noodle soup. Look for wide, hearty noodles or even DIY homemade noodles if you’re feeling ambitious. Whole wheat noodles add fiber, but regular ones are great and cook faster.
Chicken Broth: Rich broth is key. Use homemade for deep flavor or low-sodium store-bought if you want control over salt. Vegetable broth makes a nice alternative, especially for a lighter taste. You can also add a splash of soy sauce for extra richness.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions add crunch and sweetness. Fresh is preferred, but frozen works well too—just chop them into smaller pieces if frozen. A handful of spinach or peas near the end brightens the dish.
Herbs & Spices: Fresh parsley or thyme freshens the dish, while dried versions are also good. A pinch of black pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice finish it nicely. Want a bit of heat? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy?
Cook the noodles separately to avoid over-softening, then add them to the soup just before serving. This keeps them firm and fresh-tasting. Alternatively, add noodles only when serving, so leftovers don’t sit in broth too long.
- Cook noodles al dente according to package instructions, then drain.
- Add cooked noodles to bowls of hot soup just before serving.
- If reheating leftovers, add fresh noodles or briefly simmer to prevent mushiness.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Broth and Vegetables
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 small onion, diced
Protein and Noodles
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups egg noodles
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 20 minutes. Total: 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables
Chop carrots, celery, and onion. Mince garlic. Set aside.
2. Cook the vegetables
Sauté carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in a large pot for about 5 minutes until tender.
3. Add broth and seasonings
Pour in chicken broth. Add salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Cook the noodles and chicken
Add noodles and shredded chicken to the boiling broth. Cook for 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
5. Serve hot
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!
