Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

When the weather turns chilly or you simply need a comforting meal, nothing beats a bowl of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic soup recipe is easy to prepare, packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and flavorful broth. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something warm and soothing, this Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for you. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious soup step-by-step!

Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is Perfect for You

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a heartwarming, healthy meal that’s simple to make. It combines the goodness of fresh vegetables, low-carb noodles, and protein-rich chicken breasts, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner. The flavors are comforting, and the recipe is versatile enough to adapt to different tastes and preferences. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping and storing for later use!

Ingredients You Will Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, thinly sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 to 12 cups low-sodium chicken broth (use 12 cups for a brothier soup)
• 4 thyme sprigs, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 pounds skinless, bone-in chicken breasts
• 1¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 10 ounces Carba-Nada noodles (low-carb noodles) or regular wide egg noodles
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation for Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Prepare the Base: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
2. Add Garlic and Broth: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Add the thyme sprigs and bay leaves, and increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook the Chicken: Once the soup begins to simmer, add the chicken breasts, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and transfer them to a cutting board. Allow them to cool slightly before shredding the meat using two forks, discarding the bones.
5. Cook the Noodles: If using regular wide egg noodles, add them to the simmering broth and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, or until they are al dente. For Carba-Nada noodles, wait until the shredded chicken is added back to the soup, then cook for about 4 to 5 minutes.
6. Combine Chicken and Noodles: Return the shredded chicken to the soup, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Finalize and Serve: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves from the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle
• Two forks (for shredding chicken)

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it is done to prevent it from becoming tough. Bone-in chicken breasts are less likely to dry out than boneless ones.
2. Adding Noodles Too Early: Adding noodles too early can make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture.
3. Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste the soup before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Chicken Noodle Soup Variations and Swaps

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add Greens: Incorporate spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy kick.
• Different Noodles: Experiment with whole wheat noodles, gluten-free noodles, or even rice noodles for a unique twist.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Chicken Noodle Soup

• Serve with Fresh Bread: Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread or homemade rolls for a satisfying meal.
• Use Colorful Bowls: Serve the soup in bright or rustic bowls to make it visually appealing.
• Add a Dollop of Cream: A spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can add a creamy texture and a bit of tang.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Noodle Soup

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Chicken Noodle Soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the soup without noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow the soup to thaw overnight in the refrigerator first.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of bone-in?
A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but bone-in chicken often adds more flavor to the broth.

Q: How do I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of regular egg noodles, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is not only delicious but also nourishing and easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful dish for any occasion, from cozy dinners to meal prep for the week. Try this recipe today, and experience the comforting flavors for yourself! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes!

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