Introduction

Nothing beats a warm bowl of classic Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day. This comforting recipe is packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and savory broth that comes together quickly for a wholesome meal. For another easy dinner option, try this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole | Easy Dinner Idea Recipe. Both dishes are perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients

This comforting chicken noodle soup comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that create a rich, savory broth and tender noodles in every spoonful.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 cups wide egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for a quick, comforting meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 8 cups of chicken broth, 3 chopped carrots, 2 chopped celery stalks, 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 8 ounces of egg noodles. Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth process for your Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3 — Cook the Chicken

Add the raw chicken pieces directly to the pot. Pour in the 8 cups of chicken broth and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the chicken for 15–20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink in the center.

Step 4 — Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return all the shredded chicken to the simmering broth and vegetables.

Step 5 — Add the Noodles

Stir the 8 ounces of egg noodles into the hot broth. Cook according to package directions, usually 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles should be tender but still firm to the bite (al dente).

Step 6 — Season the Soup

Season your Chicken Noodle Soup with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a brighter flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

Step 7 — Serve and Store

Ladle the hot Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls. Serve immediately. For leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb broth, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Chicken Noodle Soup Nutrition

Calories	215
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	6g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. Values can vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

• Swap chicken for tofu — A plant-based protein alternative that absorbs the savory broth flavors beautifully.
• Use zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles — A lower-carb, gluten-free option that keeps the dish light and fresh.
• Replace regular noodles with brown rice noodles — A gluten-free alternative with a pleasant, slightly chewy texture.
• Opt for low-sodium broth — Easily reduces salt content while maintaining the classic Chicken Noodle Soup taste.
• Use coconut milk instead of cream — Creates a rich, dairy-free version with a subtle tropical note.
• Add quinoa in place of some noodles — Boosts protein and fiber for a more nutritious, filling soup.
• Try spiralized sweet potatoes — A vibrant, lower-carb noodle alternative that adds natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this classic Chicken Noodle Soup with a crisp garden salad or a crusty bread roll for a complete, comforting meal.
• Serve this homemade Chicken Noodle Soup in a deep, pre-warmed bowl to keep it hot longer and enhance the cozy experience.
• Brighten up your Chicken Noodle Soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill just before serving.
• For a heartier occasion, add a side of grilled cheese sandwiches or buttery crackers to dunk into the savory broth.
• Garnish each bowl with a swirl of cream or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation.

Whether for a simple family dinner or when someone is feeling under the weather, this Chicken Noodle Soup is a versatile and beloved choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Boiling the chicken, which makes it tough and dry. Fix: Gently simmer the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Mistake: Adding noodles too early, causing them to become mushy. Fix: Cook noodles separately and add them just before serving.
• Mistake: Using water instead of stock, resulting in a weak, bland broth. Fix: Use a high-quality chicken stock as your base for a rich, flavorful soup.
• Mistake: Overcooking vegetables until they lose their texture and color. Fix: Add delicate vegetables like celery and carrots at different stages based on their cooking times.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of skimming the broth, leaving it cloudy and greasy. Fix: Regularly skim off fat and impurities that rise to the surface for a clear, clean broth.
• Mistake: Not seasoning in layers, leading to a one-dimensional flavor. Fix: Season the broth, vegetables, and finished soup separately to build a complex taste.
• Mistake: Using the wrong type of noodle, which can disintegrate or become gummy. Fix: Choose sturdy noodles like egg noodles that hold their shape in the hot liquid.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooking process, which prevents flavors from fully developing. Fix: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to let the ingredients meld together beautifully.
• Mistake: Storing the soup with noodles already in it, causing them to absorb all the broth. Fix: Store noodles and broth separately, combining them only when reheating.
• Mistake: Forgetting to balance acidity, making the soup taste flat. Fix: A small splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end can brighten the entire dish.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool soup quickly, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Leave space for expansion.
• Reheat: Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Always store your Chicken Noodle Soup within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

Conclusion

This classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is perfect for chilly days and comforting meals. For more hearty soup options, try this White Chicken Chili or this Vegetable Soup. Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I make this Chicken Noodle Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this Chicken Noodle Soup recipe for a slow cooker. Add all ingredients except the noodles and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

How can I store and reheat leftover Chicken Noodle Soup?

Store cooled Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

What is the best way to prevent the noodles from getting soggy?

To keep your Chicken Noodle Soup noodles from turning soggy, cook them separately according to package directions and add them to individual bowls just before serving. Alternatively, store any leftover soup separately from the noodles.