Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Your entire family will love this easy homemade chicken noodle soup recipe! This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days or when someone needs a little extra care. Homemade chicken noodle soup stands out with its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, making it a go-to option for family dinners or cozy nights in.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Pot
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Shred the Chicken
• Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients
• Step 6: Cook Noodles
• Step 7: Final Touches
• Step 8: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• With Fresh Herbs
• With Bread
• With Crackers
• With Salad
• How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup richer?
• Can I use rotisserie chicken for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
• What type of noodles work best for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
• How do I customize my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and seasonings creates a hearty flavor that warms you inside.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or noodles to make it your own.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and vitamins, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild taste appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys their bowl.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and holds all your ingredients comfortably.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping veggies quick and safe.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving up warm bowls of delicious soup without making a mess.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 4 celery stalks (chopped)
– 4 whole carrots (peeled and chopped)
– 1/2 onion (diced)
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 2 Bay Leaves
– 2 cups Egg noodles
– 2 cup water

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the vegetables as indicated to save time during cooking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Pot

1. Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, celery, carrots, and onions to a large stock pot or Dutch oven.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Once boiling:
1. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
2. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), about 20–30 minutes depending on size.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the pot.
2. Shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the pot.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in:
– Thyme leaves
– Minced garlic
– Salt
– Pepper
– Bay leaves
– Egg noodles
– Water

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Cook over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup while it’s warm!

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re feeling under the weather, serving this soup with a few accompaniments can elevate the experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Dill Sprigs: Add a few dill sprigs for an aromatic touch that complements the soup beautifully.

With Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair it with garlic bread for a savory, buttery side that enhances every spoonful.

With Crackers

• Saltine Crackers: A classic choice, these add a satisfying crunch.
• Herbed Crackers: Opt for herb-infused crackers to enhance the flavors of the soup.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad can balance out the heartiness of the soup.
• Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a simple vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.

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How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

To make your homemade chicken noodle soup truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with good quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook egg noodles just until tender to prevent them from getting mushy in the soup.
• Add Veggies Wisely: Incorporate vegetables like peas or spinach towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture and color.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go; it’s easier to add than to take away.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing your homemade chicken noodle soup with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo that’s always comforting and pairs perfectly with soup.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and fluffy muffins that complement the savory flavors of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted seasonal veggies for extra nutrients and flavor on your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious salad that adds texture without overpowering the main dish.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers offer additional protein and taste that rounds out your meal.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are fun to dip and add a hearty side element to your bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade chicken noodle soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the taste and texture. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using Overcooked Chicken: Ensure the chicken is just cooked through. Overcooking makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165 degrees F.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor. Avoid using wilted or pre-packaged veggies; they can dull your delicious soup.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for a well-balanced soup.
• Ignoring Noodle Cooking Time: Follow the package instructions for cooking noodles. Undercooked noodles can ruin your soup’s texture.
• Not Removing Bay Leaves: Leaving bay leaves in the soup can lead to unpleasant bites. Always remember to take them out before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about homemade chicken noodle soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

How can I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup richer?

You can enrich your soup by adding a splash of heavy cream or more herbs like dill and parsley for depth of flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds wonderful flavor. Just shred it and add it towards the end of cooking.

What type of noodles work best for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use rice noodles or whole-grain pasta if preferred.

How do I customize my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables like peas, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This homemade chicken noodle soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on your family’s preferences. Give this easy recipe a try—it’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying!