Name: Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 ribs celery (diced); 3 large carrots (diced); 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 10 cups chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste); 4 cups dry egg noodles; 3 cups rotisserie chicken meat (or chicken breasts)

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On a chilly evening, nothing wraps you in warmth and comfort quite like a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. The delightful aroma of herbs mingling with tender chicken and fresh vegetables fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Perfect for cozy Sundays or when you’re feeling under the weather, this recipe for chicken noodle soup is sure to become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into what makes this comforting dish so special and how you can create it easily.

Reasons to Love Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a bowl of chicken noodle soup. It not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body with its wholesome ingredients. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

Heartwarming flavor profile that comforts the senses
Nutrient-rich ingredients for a healthy meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night of the week
Versatile and customizable to suit your taste preferences
Great as leftovers and can be frozen for future meals

What You’ll Need

Creating a delicious chicken noodle soup relies on a combination of fresh ingredients and simple herbs. Feel free to make swaps for a lighter, healthier pot of goodness—this recipe uses turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner touch. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 ribs celery (diced)
3 large carrots (diced)
1 medium onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
10 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
4 cups dry egg noodles
3 cups rotisserie chicken meat (or chicken breasts)

These ingredients work beautifully together to create a rich, hearty broth filled with comforting noodles and tender chicken. Note that using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also enhances the flavor!

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

Preparing chicken noodle soup is simple and rewarding. Follow these easy steps to bring your soup to life:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. As the oil shimmers, it releases a warm, inviting scent that sets the tone for your dish.
Add the diced celery, carrots, onions, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 6-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to let it bubble gently.
Stir in the uncooked egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes or until they reach an al dente texture. If you’re using raw chicken breasts, add them now. Once fully cooked, take them out, chop into bite-sized pieces, and return to the soup.
Remove the soup from heat and gently fold in the tender rotisserie chicken meat, allowing it to warm through. Serve immediately, delighting in the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 30 minutes, Total ~ 45 minutes, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 350 (approximately).

Plan Ahead

If you’d like to get ahead in your meal prep, many components of chicken noodle soup can be prepared in advance. Chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before you plan to make the soup. You can also cook the chicken ahead of time and shred it, storing it alongside the vegetables. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply follow the cooking steps and add your prepped ingredients.

Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious chicken noodle soup, you might have leftovers to store. Refrigerate the soup in a sealed container for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, defrost the soup overnight in the fridge and gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you notice the noodles have absorbed some broth, add a splash of water or broth to restore its comforting texture.

Perfect Pairings

Chicken noodle soup pairs well with many accompaniments, enriching your meal experience. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your soup:

Freshly baked bread for dipping and sopping up the broth
A simple garden salad for a refreshing contrast
Grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic combo
Crackers to add a delightful crunch
Homemade biscuits for a cozy touch

Variations and Swaps

While the classic chicken noodle soup is beloved by many, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Consider these fun variations:

Add leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
Swap in zucchini or sweet potatoes for a different twist on the vegetable medley.
Use whole grain or gluten-free noodles to cater to dietary preferences.
Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or dill, for a flavor profile change.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

For the best chicken noodle soup experience, keep these tips in mind:

Use high-quality chicken broth for an enriched base flavor.
Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should remain tender yet firm to the bite.
To enhance flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Your Questions, Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about chicken noodle soup:

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, while egg noodles provide a classic touch, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Just replace the chicken and chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I thicken my chicken noodle soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamy texture.
Is it safe to freeze chicken noodle soup? Yes, as long as you follow proper storage guidelines. Just remember that the noodles may become softer when reheated.
How do I avoid mushy noodles? Add the noodles towards the end of cooking and monitor their doneness closely.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re warming up after a long day or seeking comfort during a cold winter night, chicken noodle soup is the perfect dish to serve. It embodies warmth and nourishment, capturing the essence of home-cooked meals. With its variety of ingredients and ease of preparation, this chicken noodle soup recipe will surely become a beloved favorite in your household. Dive into a bowl soon, and let the good feelings wash over you with each delicious spoonful!

Chicken Noodle Soup

Author: patrick
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and wholesome chicken noodle soup perfect for chilly evenings.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the diced celery, carrots, onions, and garlic; sauté for 6-7 minutes until softened.
Pour in the chicken broth, add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper; bring to a boil.
Stir in the uncooked egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. If using raw chicken, add it now and cook through before shredding and returning to the soup.
Remove from heat and fold in rotisserie chicken meat. Serve immediately.