Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Your entire family will love this easy homemade chicken noodle soup recipe! Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting meal, this soup is rich in flavor and incredibly simple to prepare. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, it’s a dish that warms the soul and brings everyone together at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This homemade chicken noodle soup can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good bowl of chicken noodle soup! It’s a great way to please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. This soup can be customized to fit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies, this soup is nutritious and satisfying.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it easier for you!

Tools and Preparation

To make your homemade chicken noodle soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more 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: This tool allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space for the soup to simmer properly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board makes chopping vegetables safe and efficient.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures you can quickly and easily prepare your ingredients without frustration.

Ingredients

Protein

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Broth

• 8 cups chicken broth

Vegetables

• 4 celery stalks (chopped)
• 4 whole carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1/2 onion (diced)

Seasonings

• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 Bay Leaves

Noodles

• 2 cups Egg noodles

Liquid

• 2 cup water

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, celery, carrots, and onions to a large stock pot or Dutch oven.

Step 2: Bring to Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through (the meat should be completely white) and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the size of your chicken breasts.

Step 4: Shred Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Shred it with two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces before stirring it back into the stock pot.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

Stir in thyme leaves, minced garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaves, egg noodles, and water.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

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

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken noodle soup with family or friends!

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving homemade chicken noodle soup is a delightful experience that brings warmth to any table. With its comforting flavors and inviting aroma, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Classic Pairings

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of fresh, crusty bread for dipping.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A gooey grilled cheese complements the soup perfectly.
• Garden Salad: Lighten up your meal with a fresh garden salad on the side.

Creative Twists

• Sourdough Bowls: Hollow out sourdough bread for a fun, edible bowl.
• Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hot soup.
• Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy cheese biscuits are great for soaking up the broth.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Top with parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.
• Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors of the soup.

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How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

To achieve the best version of homemade chicken noodle soup, follow these essential tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly improve the taste and nutritional value.
• Season Gradually: Start with less salt and add more as needed during cooking to avoid over-seasoning.
• Shred Chicken Properly: For better distribution of flavor, shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces before returning it to the pot.
• Cook Noodles Separately: To prevent soggy noodles, consider cooking them separately and adding them just before serving.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cool Before Storing: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Enjoying homemade chicken noodle soup is even better when paired with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options that complement this comforting meal beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that pairs well with soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers make for a hearty addition alongside your soup.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing balance to the warm soup.
4. Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes provide a filling side dish option that is easy to prepare.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade chicken noodle soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong chicken: Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. Avoid using tougher cuts, as they can make the soup less enjoyable.
• Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles cook quickly. Keep an eye on them, and check for doneness to avoid mushy noodles in your soup.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasoning to ensure a flavorful dish.
• Ignoring the bay leaves: Bay leaves add depth to the flavor. Be sure to include them during cooking and remove before serving.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the taste. Use fresh celery and carrots instead of frozen or canned ones for better texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in the fridge.

Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring often until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about homemade chicken noodle soup that you might find helpful.

How long does homemade chicken noodle soup last?

Homemade chicken noodle soup lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, freezing is recommended for longer storage.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for homemade chicken noodle soup?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken can save time. Just shred it and add it towards the end of cooking.

What vegetables can I add to homemade chicken noodle soup?

You can customize your soup with vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. Feel free to experiment!

How do I thicken my homemade chicken noodle soup?

To thicken your soup, consider adding a cornstarch slurry or simply let it simmer longer without the lid.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

This easy homemade chicken noodle soup is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Its comforting flavors make it an instant favorite. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!