Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s a special kind of magic in a bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. I remember vividly those chilly school days when I’d come home feeling a bit under the weather. My mom, with her calm, loving presence, would already have a pot simmering on the stove.

The scent of savory broth, tender chicken, and fragrant vegetables filled our kitchen, instantly making everything feel better. It wasn’t just food; it was a warm hug in a bowl, a tangible expression of her love and care. Now, as a mom of three myself, that tradition continues in my own home.

My kids know that when they see the big soup pot, something truly comforting is brewing. This isn’t just *any* chicken noodle soup; this is the quintessential, soul-soothing, Classic Chicken Noodle Soup that heals, nourishes, and brings everyone together. It’s a recipe born from necessity and perfected through generations of love, ensuring every spoonful offers warmth and happiness.

This simple, nourishing Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is truly a family favorite, always there to chase away the sniffles or just brighten a cold evening. Making homemade chicken noodle soup is such a rewarding experience, and I promise you, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is easier than you think.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

You will adore this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup for so many reasons. First, it offers unparalleled comfort. Few dishes warm the body and soul quite like a steamy bowl of homemade goodness.

Furthermore, it’s incredibly nourishing. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and wholesome noodles, this easy chicken noodle soup provides essential nutrients, perfect for growing bodies or anyone needing a boost. I always say, “Food is love,” and this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup truly embodies that sentiment.

It’s simple to prepare, using readily available ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. You also have fantastic flexibility to adapt it to your family’s preferences. Plus, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe makes a generous batch, fantastic for leftovers or sharing with a neighbor.

You simply cannot beat the taste and tradition of a truly Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. This wholesome chicken noodle soup will become a go-to in your recipe collection, I promise.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this wonderful Classic Chicken Noodle Soup requires just a few basic, fresh ingredients. Good quality makes a huge difference here. Therefore, always choose the best you can find.

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs	1.5 pounds
Yellow onion, chopped	1 large
Carrots, peeled and diced	3 medium
Celery stalks, diced	3 medium
Garlic, minced	4 cloves
Chicken broth (low sodium preferred)	8 cups (64 oz)
Water	2 cups
Dried egg noodles (medium width)	12 ounces
Fresh parsley, chopped	1/4 cup
Dried thyme	1 teaspoon
Bay leaf	1
Salt	1 teaspoon (or to taste)
Black pepper	1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)

Substitutions & Variations

This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can easily tailor it to your family’s tastes or whatever you have on hand. Firstly, for the chicken, feel free to use a whole rotisserie chicken; simply shred the meat and add it towards the end of cooking.

You can also use bone-in chicken pieces for richer broth, removing the bones before shredding the meat. Secondly, regarding noodles, choose your favorite! Acini de pepe, ditalini, or even broken spaghetti work wonderfully if you prefer smaller pasta in your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles or skip them and add more vegetables.

Furthermore, boost the veggie content by adding chopped zucchini, spinach, peas, or green beans. Just toss them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor of any Classic Chicken Noodle Soup beautifully.

You can also experiment with different herbs; fresh dill or a pinch of rosemary adds a lovely aroma. For a creamier texture, stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative just before serving. These simple tweaks let you enjoy a slightly different version of your favorite Classic Chicken Noodle Soup every time!

This classic soup’s versatility, allowing for various ingredient swaps, truly makes it a kitchen hero. If you enjoy adaptable and hearty meals, you’ll also appreciate the robust flavors and flexibility of a Classic Beef Chili.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delicious, hearty meal.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

This step builds flavor. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
3.

Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits; these add incredible flavor to your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup.

Return the seared chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken cooks through.
6.

Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Place it on a cutting board and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
7.

Cook Noodles: Bring the soup back to a simmer. Add the dried egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually 7-10 minutes, or until al dente. Do not overcook them.

8. Combine and Finish: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley.

Taste the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the hot Classic Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy this homemade Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with your loved ones!

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving the best Classic Chicken Noodle Soup involves a few simple tricks. These tips elevate your soup from good to absolutely incredible. First, always use high-quality chicken broth.

A good broth forms the foundation of a flavorful Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. I often use homemade broth, but store-bought low-sodium options work well too. Second, season your chicken *before* searing it. This initial seasoning locks in flavor right from the start.

Next, do not overcook your noodles. Mushy noodles can ruin the texture of an otherwise perfect Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. Add them to the soup only when you are ready to serve, and cook them just until al dente.

If you plan for leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls. This method prevents them from soaking up all the broth and becoming soggy. Furthermore, taste and adjust your seasoning at the end.

Different broths have varying sodium levels, so you might need more or less salt and pepper. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and a lovely fresh finish to your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. Finally, let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every spoonful of this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup truly outstanding.

Applying these simple tips ensures your chicken noodle soup is always incredibly flavorful and rewarding. For another incredibly convenient and comforting meal that maximizes taste with minimal effort, consider making this Classic Crockpot Chicken Chili.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious Classic Chicken Noodle Soup for days. After serving, allow any leftover soup to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers. You can store the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup freezes wonderfully. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend cooking the noodles separately or undercooking them slightly. Noodles can get mushy when frozen and reheated.

Freeze the soup base (broth, chicken, vegetables) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat refrigerated soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

If you froze the base, thaw it, then cook fresh noodles right before serving for the best texture. This method ensures your homemade Classic Chicken Noodle Soup remains perfectly delicious, even days later.

What to Serve With This Recipe

A hearty bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup truly stands alone as a complete meal. However, a few simple accompaniments can enhance the experience even further. First, a crusty loaf of bread or some warm rolls are always a fantastic choice.

They are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth. Garlic bread offers another delicious option, adding a flavorful kick.

Furthermore, a light, crisp green salad provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. A simple vinaigrette dressing works best, keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant. If you prefer something quick and easy, a handful of crackers or oyster crackers makes a satisfying addition.

For a touch of extra freshness, a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives on top of your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup just before serving adds a lovely aromatic finish. Regardless of what you choose, these pairings make a cozy, comforting meal that truly celebrates the goodness of a Classic Chicken Noodle Soup.

While this chicken noodle soup makes a perfectly complete and satisfying meal on its own, it’s always fun to explore other comforting main dishes. For a different but equally beloved and hearty option, you might love this Classic Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like shredded rotisserie chicken, saves significant time. Add the shredded chicken to the soup during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering, along with the noodles, just to warm it through. This prevents the chicken from becoming tough.

What kind of noodles are best for chicken noodle soup?

Medium-width dried egg noodles are classic for this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe. They hold their shape well and provide a comforting texture. However, feel free to use ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even broken spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta also works well if needed.

Can I freeze Classic Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Classic Chicken Noodle Soup! For best results, freeze the soup base (broth, chicken, vegetables) without the noodles. Noodles can become very mushy when frozen and then reheated.

Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then cook fresh noodles just before serving. This ensures the best texture for your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

To prevent mushy noodles in your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup, add them only when the soup is almost ready to serve. Cook them just until al dente according to package directions. If you anticipate leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls as you serve. This keeps your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup perfect.

Can I make this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily adapt this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup to be vegetarian. Omit the chicken entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or chickpeas for added texture and nutrients. The foundational flavors of the mirepoix and herbs will still create a delicious, comforting soup.

Classic chicken noodle soup is a timeless comfort food renowned across many cultures for its soothing properties and delicious flavor. Often associated with cold weather and illness, this humble dish has a long history as a traditional remedy and a staple of home cooking, with its origins rooted in various forms of soup preparations dating back centuries.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. This calculation assumes 8 servings for the entire recipe of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	30 g
Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Cholesterol	80 mg
Carbohydrates	25 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugars	4 g
Sodium	850 mg

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