There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup to warm your soul and comfort your heart. This classic chicken noodle soup recipe delivers all the cozy flavors you crave with tender chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and hearty egg noodles swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving comfort food at its finest, this chicken noodle soup will become your go-to recipe for years to come.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen
- Incredibly versatile – easily customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs
- Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day
- One-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in chicken broth and add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken breasts to the simmering broth. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Remove and discard bay leaves from the soup.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Bring the soup back to a boil and add egg noodles. Cook according to package directions, typically 6-8 minutes, until noodles are tender.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot in bowls.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the chicken – it will become tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness
- Cook noodles separately if making ahead to prevent them from becoming mushy
- Use low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level in your chicken noodle soup
- Add delicate herbs like parsley at the end to preserve their fresh flavor and bright color
- For richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts – they stay more tender and add extra richness
Common Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this chicken noodle soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred about 3 cups of meat and add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Cook the noodles just until al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the hot broth. If making ahead, cook noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when serving.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without noodles. Add fresh cooked noodles when reheating for the best texture.
| Course | Main Course |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | 285 kcal per serving |
Variations
This versatile chicken noodle soup recipe adapts beautifully to different tastes and dietary needs. Try adding diced potatoes for extra heartiness, or swap the egg noodles for rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta. For a Mediterranean twist, add a handful of spinach and a splash of lemon juice. You can also incorporate different vegetables like corn, peas, or mushrooms based on your family’s preferences. Some home cooks love adding a pinch of turmeric for extra color and anti-inflammatory benefits.
What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting chicken noodle soup pairs wonderfully with crusty French bread, warm dinner rolls, or classic saltine crackers. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. Grilled cheese sandwiches make an excellent companion, especially for kids. Don’t forget to have extra napkins on hand – this soul-warming soup is best enjoyed with enthusiasm!
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This chicken noodle soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For best results when meal prepping, store the soup and noodles separately to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. The soup base can be frozen for up to 3 months – simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Fresh noodles can be cooked and added just before serving for optimal texture.
