If you’re craving a warm hug in a bowl, nothing hits the spot quite like this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe. It’s a timeless comfort food that wraps tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles all in a rich, savory broth. This soup is not only simple to make but also deeply satisfying, making it the perfect go-to for chilly days, under-the-weather moments, or simply when you want a bowl of homemade goodness that instantly lifts your spirit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor and heartwarming texture. These straightforward essentials come together effortlessly, turning pantry staples into something truly special that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Using bite-sized pieces ensures quick, even cooking and tender chicken in every spoonful.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and foundational flavor to the broth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Their natural sweetness and bright color enrich the soup’s depth and appearance.
- 2 stalks celery, diced: Offers a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances the softer veggies.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with aromatic warmth and complexity.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup’s rich, savory base that carries all the flavors.
- 2 cups water: Helps thin the broth to the perfect consistency while making plenty to share.
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles: These soak up the broth and bring delightful texture to every bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of green color and a fresh herbal note just before serving.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a subtle earthiness that elevates the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance the soup.
How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken
Start by dicing your onion, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces—they should be roughly uniform to cook evenly. Mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor. Cut your chicken into small chunks; this helps the meat cook quickly and allows it to soak up the savory broth perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Liquids
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot and let them brown lightly, sealing in those juicy flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then sprinkle in the thyme. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to maintain a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This lets the chicken cook through fully and the vegetables become tender, all while infusing the broth with that classic comforting taste you crave.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Stir in the uncooked egg noodles and continue cooking for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are al dente. Be careful not to overcook the noodles, or they may become mushy and absorb all the broth, which would lessen the soup’s lovely texture.
Step 6: Final Touches
Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top to add brightness and a lovely fresh aroma. Your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is traditional and perfect, but you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright twist or a dash of crushed red pepper for some mild heat. A few freshly cracked black peppercorns on top enhance the soup’s cozy appeal.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a soft dinner roll, or crunchy crackers to dunk right into that savory broth. A simple side salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette can round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming touch, serve the soup in white ramekins or deep bowls garnished with a sprig of parsley or thyme. If you want to get fancy, top your servings with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to bring a subtle richness that your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded further. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
To freeze, remove the noodles first if possible, as they can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the broth, chicken, and veggies separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Noodles can be cooked fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks too thick. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add freshly cooked noodles during reheating for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds rich flavor and saves time. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it toward the end of cooking so it doesn’t dry out.
What type of noodles work best for this soup?
Egg noodles are classic for a reason—they cook quickly, absorb the broth nicely, and provide a satisfying chew. You can experiment with other pasta shapes like small shells or orzo, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this soup more hearty?
Add diced potatoes, barley, or beans to increase the heartiness. Just keep in mind that cooking times may need to be adjusted to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, but noodles don’t freeze well as they tend to become mushy. Freeze soup and components separately if you plan ahead, then combine fresh noodles when reheating.
Can I use homemade chicken broth in this recipe?
Definitely! Homemade broth will elevate this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with even deeper, richer flavors. Use it in place of store-bought broth on a one-to-one basis.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is such a joyful, cozy dish to make and enjoy. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknights, but its comforting flavors make you feel cared for every step of the way. Give it a try and discover for yourself why it’s a beloved classic—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any day when you crave warm, flavorful broth with tender chicken and soft noodles. This recipe combines fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and savory chicken broth to create a timeless soup that’s easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Others
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. These fresh vegetables will form the flavorful base of the soup.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add a small amount of oil if desired, then add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook until lightly browned and no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the uncooked egg noodles to the simmering soup. Continue cooking for an additional 7-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Finish with Fresh Parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of fresh flavor. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for a warm, nourishing meal.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor and more tender texture.
- Feel free to substitute egg noodles with other pasta like fettuccine or macaroni.
- Leftover soup keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- For a thicker soup, add a slurry of flour or cornstarch mixed with water before adding noodles.
- Add vegetables like peas or corn for additional variety.
