When the weather gets chilly or you need some comfort, nothing beats a warm bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and rich broth, this recipe is your ticket to cozy bliss. I’ll guide you through each step, from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting your own version. Let’s dive into making the ultimate comfort bowl today!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This chicken noodle soup brings warm, homestyle flavors that remind me of family gatherings and cozy evenings.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is a nutritious choice that feels indulgent.
- Versatile Options: You can easily customize this soup with different vegetables or noodles based on your preference.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
To make a great chicken noodle soup, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into half-moons
– 2 celery stalks, sliced into small pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
– 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (using rotisserie chicken adds great flavor)
– 3 cups egg noodles (or any noodle of your choice)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Each ingredient plays a role in creating rich flavors. The olive oil starts the cooking, while onion, carrots, and celery provide a sweet base. Garlic adds a punch, and thyme and rosemary give depth. Chicken broth makes up the soup’s body, while cooked chicken adds heartiness. Egg noodles bring comfort, and seasoning rounds it all out. Don’t forget the parsley! It adds color and freshness to your finished bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Cooking Process
1. First, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 medium onion, finely diced, along with 2 sliced carrots and 2 sliced celery stalks. Stir them occasionally for about 5 minutes.
3. The onion will turn soft and clear. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of crushed rosemary. Sauté these for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Next, pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and raise the heat to boil.
5. When it reaches a rolling boil, add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer.
Cooking Noodles
1. Now, add 3 cups of egg noodles to the pot.
2. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes. You want them to be al dente, which means tender but still firm.
Final Touches
1. Taste your soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
2. Once seasoned, take the pot off the heat. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
3. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For a nice finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Enjoy your cozy bowl of chicken noodle soup!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Chicken Noodle Soup
– Using rotisserie chicken for flavor
Rotisserie chicken makes your soup taste rich and savory. It saves time and gives great flavor. Just shred the chicken and toss it into your broth. The skin adds depth too. This tip helps you create a comforting bowl with less work.
– How to adjust seasoning for taste
Always taste your soup as you cook. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remember, you can add more, but you can’t take it away. If it tastes flat, try adding a splash of lemon juice. Fresh herbs like parsley can brighten up the flavor too.
Cooking Methods
– Stovetop versus slow cooker
Stovetop cooking gives you control over the cooking time. It cooks fast and lets flavors meld quickly. If you have time, a slow cooker works too. Just let it simmer all day for deep flavor. You can set it and forget it until dinner.
– Quick cooking tips for busy schedules
Use pre-chopped veggies to save time on prep. You can also use frozen noodles; they cook fast. If you’re really in a rush, make the soup in advance. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat it before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and flavorful option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds depth to the soup and saves you time!
- Fresh Herbs Matter: If possible, use fresh thyme and rosemary instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile. Add them towards the end of cooking for maximum aroma.
- Customize Your Noodles: Feel free to use any type of noodle you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can make the soup healthier and cater to dietary needs.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the soup and noodles separately to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Reheat gently before serving.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily switch up the veggies in your chicken noodle soup. Peas and green beans add nice color and texture. If you want a twist, try using whole grain or gluten-free noodles. They can change the taste and feel of the dish.
– Substituting Vegetables:
– Peas
– Green beans
– Spinach
– Kale
– Using Different Noodles:
– Whole grain noodles
– Gluten-free noodles
– Rice noodles
Flavor Enhancements
Want to give your soup a zesty kick? Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. It freshens up the flavors. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top for a rich touch.
– Adding Lemon Juice:
– Brightens the soup
– Balances richness
– Cheese Options:
– Parmesan
– Cheddar
– Feta
For a fun twist, mix in different herbs. Try dill or basil for a new flavor profile. Experimenting with these small changes can make your classic chicken noodle soup feel new and exciting!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftover chicken noodle soup, let it cool first. Pour the soup into airtight containers. This helps keep it fresh. Store the soup in the fridge for up to three days. When you want to reheat the soup, pour it into a pot. Heat it over medium heat until hot. Stir often to avoid it sticking to the pot. You can also use the microwave. Place the soup in a bowl and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing your chicken noodle soup is easy. First, let the soup cool down completely. Next, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. This space allows for expansion. Seal the containers tightly and label them with the date. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s hot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
FAQs
Common Questions about Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs. Dried herbs are easy to find and last longer. Use about one-third of the amount you would use if they were fresh. For example, use one teaspoon of dried thyme instead of three teaspoons of fresh thyme. This makes it easy to enjoy great flavor, even when fresh herbs are not on hand.
How long does chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
Chicken noodle soup lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying leftovers.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version! Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Use cooked veggies like mushrooms or chickpeas for texture. You can also skip the chicken entirely. This way, you keep the soup hearty and tasty without meat.
Classic chicken noodle soup starts with simple, fresh ingredients. You learned how to sauté veggies, add herbs, and cook noodles to perfection. I shared tips for using rotisserie chicken and adjusting flavors. You have options for variations, like different veggies or noodles. Proper storage ensures your soup stays tasty.
In summary, this dish is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to make. Enjoy your cooking adventur
