This homemade chicken noodle soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Tender chicken, cozy noodles, and fresh veggies come together to bring comfort whenever you need it.
When I’m feeling under the weather, this soup is my go-to! Nothing beats slurping those noodles while the aroma fills the kitchen. It’s quick to make, and oh-so-soothing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but feel free to substitute with vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. Don’t worry—your soup will still taste fab!
Chicken Broth: I recommend low sodium chicken broth for better control of saltiness. If you have homemade broth, even better! In a pinch, vegetable broth will also work nicely.
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re cooking from scratch, any leftover chicken works too. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding beans or chickpeas.
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles add a nice touch, you can replace them with any pasta type like fusilli or bowtie if that’s what you have. Gluten-free pasta is another good alternative!
How Can I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables gets them soft and enhances their flavors. Here’s how to do it seamlessly:
- Start with a medium heat to avoid burning.
- Onions need about 3-4 minutes to soften. Stir often.
- Add garlic toward the end of sautéing the onions to prevent burning—just 1-2 minutes is perfect!
- Then, add your carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This technique builds a flavorful base for your soup. Your nose will thank you! 😊
Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup to Feel Better Fast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles or any pasta of choice
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting chicken noodle soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time about 40 minutes. You’ll have a warm, delicious soup on your table ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. This brings out great flavor!
2. Add More Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook these together for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften and smell amazing!
3. Make the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf if you’re using it. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for about 15 minutes, so all the flavors blend well and the veggies are tender.
4. Stir in the Chicken:
Now, add your shredded cooked chicken to the pot. Give it a good stir to heat the chicken through. This will make your soup hearty and delicious!
5. Cook the Noodles:
In a separate pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain them well and set aside. You’ll add these to the soup right before serving.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your soup and add salt and black pepper as needed for some extra flavor. Remember to remove the bay leaf.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a nice touch. Serve it hot and savor every comforting sip!
This recipe is perfect for a quick, nourishing meal, especially when you need a little pick-me-up. Enjoy your homemade goodness! 😊
FAQ About Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save time and still taste great in this soup. Just add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering, so they don’t get overcooked.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave out the noodles when freezing; they can become mushy when reheated!
What If I Don’t Have Cooked Chicken on Hand?
No worries! You can quickly poach chicken breasts in the soup for about 15-20 minutes before shredding them. Alternatively, use canned chicken for a quick fix—just rinse it well before adding it to the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Just substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor and texture!
