Chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that warms your soul on chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of homey goodness. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles to create a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and timeless. Whether you’re nursing a cold or just craving something wholesome, this soup hits all the right notes.
This recipe has a special place in many hearts – passed down through generations, it reminds us of family dinners and care during tough times.
I grew up watching my grandmother stir her big pot of chicken noodle soup, filling the house with an irresistible aroma.
It’s that homemade touch, the love in every spoonful, that makes this recipe so treasured.
Over time, I’ve perfected it to balance rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it easy enough for any home cook to recreate that same warm feeling.
Why you’ll love this
- Comfort in a Bowl: The combination of hearty chicken, soft noodles, and flavorful broth is pure comfort food magic.
- Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with protein and veggies, it supports recovery and keeps you feeling full and energized.
- Easy to Make: Uses common ingredients and straightforward steps that don’t require hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste perfectly.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Servings: 6 bowls
Estimated Cost: $10
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes to let flavors meld and vegetables become tender.
- Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Tips for Success
- Use homemade chicken broth if possible for the richest flavor, but quality store-bought broth works well too.
- Shred leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Avoid overcooking noodles by adding them last and cooking until just tender.
- Feel free to swap egg noodles for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta for dietary preferences.
Cozy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 carrots sliced
- 3 celery stalks sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 8 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie works great
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes to let flavors meld and vegetables become tender.
- Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Notes
- Use homemade chicken broth if possible for the richest flavor, but quality store-bought broth works well too.
- Shred leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Avoid overcooking noodles by adding them last and cooking until just tender.
- Feel free to swap egg noodles for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta for dietary preferences.
Common Questions
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze without noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating to prevent sogginess.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
You can use any pasta you like — such as macaroni, fusilli, or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
Is it okay to use raw chicken?
Absolutely. If using raw chicken, cook it directly in the broth until fully done, then shred and proceed with the recipe.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Peas, corn, or spinach make great additions to boost nutrition and color. Add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
This chicken noodle soup recipe brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful.
I hope it fills your kitchen with the same joy and nostalgia it brings to mine.
Stay cozy and enjoy your homemade bowl of happiness!
