Hey, Welcome to my little corner of the internet where I share my love for comforting homemade recipes. Today, I want to talk about Chicken Noodle Soup through Beyond the Bayou Blog. Back when I was a kid, whenever I’d catch a cold or feel under the weather, my mom would whip up a big pot of her famous chicken noodle soup. The aroma of simmering broth and the sound of noodles softly bubbling away on the stove would instantly make me feel better. It was like a warm hug in a bowl, soothing both my body and soul.
Now that I’m all grown up, I still turn to this classic dish whenever I need a pick-me-up. And today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe with you. So, grab your favorite soup pot and let’s get cooking. Oh, and if you’re looking for more cozy soup recipes, be sure to check out my Taco Soup and Creamy Chicken Soup recipes too. Happy cooking.
What is Chicken Noodle?
Chicken noodle soup is a warm, comforting dish made with chicken, noodles, and flavorful broth. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. The chicken adds protein, while the noodles make it filling and satisfying. The broth, often seasoned with herbs and spices, gives the soup its delicious flavor.
Many people enjoy chicken noodle soup when they’re sick because it’s easy to digest and can help soothe a sore throat or a stuffy nose. It’s also a classic dish that’s been loved for generations, bringing families together around the dinner table. Whether homemade or store-bought, chicken noodle soup is a go-to comfort food for many, providing warmth, nourishment, and a taste of home.
Overview: How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup?
Making chicken noodle soup is relatively simple and rewarding. Start by boiling a pot of water and adding boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Let them cook until tender, then remove and shred the chicken. In the same pot, saute chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft and fragrant. Next, pour in chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil.
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with any desired seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme or parsley. Let the soup simmer to allow the flavors to meld together. In a separate pot, cook your choice of noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain the noodles and add them to the soup. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes to ensure the noodles are fully cooked and infused with the delicious broth. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, homemade chicken noodle soup that’s sure to warm your soul.
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Cooking utensils (spoon, spatula)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Pot for boiling noodles and colander
- Tongs or Forks
- Stove or heat source
Ingredients
- About 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1-2 medium onions chopped
- 2-3 medium carrots sliced
- 2-3 stalks celery sliced
- 8-10 cups chicken broth
- 8-10 oz noodles such as egg noodles or pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Herbs such as thyme parsley, or bay leaves
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for saut�ing
- Water if needed to adjust consistency
Instructions
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped chicken to the pot and cook until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Saute until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and return cooked chicken to the pot.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook noodles separately according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Add cooked noodles to the pot of soup.
- Stir well and let simmer for a few more minutes.
- Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
- Enjoy your comforting chicken noodle soup.
Notes
Nutrition
Time for the Tips!
- Variations: Get creative with your chicken noodle soup by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, corn, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Noodles: Cook the noodles separately to prevent them from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy. Add them to the soup just before serving to maintain their texture.
- Broth: Use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor, but store-bought broth works well too. Consider using low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference. Adding garlic or other vegetables like peas or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for convenience, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
Seasonings for Chicken Noodle Soup!
Herbs and seasonings play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of chicken noodle soup. Common herbs include thyme, parsley, bay leaves, and garlic powder. Thyme adds a subtle earthy flavor, while parsley brings freshness and a hint of brightness. Bay leaves contribute a depth of flavor, and garlic powder adds a savory kick. These herbs complement the savory richness of the chicken and broth, making each spoonful of soup delicious and comforting.
Additionally, onion powder can add a sweet and savory note, while a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a gentle warmth without overwhelming the dish. These seasonings can be adjusted according to personal preference, allowing you to customize the flavor profile of your chicken noodle soup to suit your taste. Overall, a combination of these herbs and seasonings creates a flavorful and aromatic broth that is perfect for warming up on cold days or soothing a sore throat.
What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup?
What to do with Leftover?
- Freeze for Later: Portion the leftover soup into airtight containers and freeze for future meals. It makes for a quick and convenient lunch or dinner option on busy days.
- Soup Makeover: Transform the leftover soup into a creamy chicken noodle casserole by mixing it with cooked pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce. Bake until bubbly for a comforting meal.
- Chicken Salad: Shred the leftover chicken from the soup and use it to make a chicken salad. Mix it with mayonnaise, chopped celery, onions, and seasonings. Serve on sandwiches, wraps, or over a bed of greens.
- Stir-Fry: Use the leftover chicken and vegetables from the soup to make a quick and easy stir-fry. Simply saute them in a hot pan with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Serve over rice or noodles for a flavorful meal.
- Rice Dish: Serve the leftover soup over cooked rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can also add extra vegetables or protein to bulk it up.s.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken for chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, leftover cooked chicken can be used in chicken noodle soup. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the final stages of cooking to heat through.
Q: Can I use different types of noodles in chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, you can use various types of noodles in chicken noodle soup, such as egg noodles, pasta, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles. Choose the type of noodle based on your preference and dietary needs.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
A: Yes, chicken noodle soup can be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for added convenience. Follow your appliance’s instructions for cooking times and settings.