Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and soft egg noodles simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Enjoy this dish as a nourishing option that warms your heart and fills your home with delicious aromas.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For Seasoning and Noodles
• How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Step 1: Combine Ingredients
• Step 2: Boil and Simmer
• Step 3: Shred the Chicken
• Step 4: Add Seasonings and Noodles
• Step 5: Cook Noodles
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Bread
• Topped with Cheese
• With a 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
• Can I use leftover chicken for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
• How do I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup healthier?
• Can I use other types of noodles?
• How long does homemade chicken noodle soup last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can prepare this comforting soup even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding extra veggies or using leftover roast chicken for added flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft noodles and tender chicken, making it a hit for the entire family.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with proteins and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
• Freezes Well: Make a large batch and freeze portions for a quick meal later.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering large quantities, ensuring even heat distribution while cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting ingredients quick and easy, helping to maintain uniform sizes for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 celery stalks (chopped)
• 4 whole carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1/2 onion (diced)

For Seasoning and Noodles

• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups water

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken breasts, chicken broth, celery, carrots, and onions.

Step 2: Boil and Simmer

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (about 20–30 minutes). Remove the chicken once cooked.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Allow the cooked chicken to cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces with two forks.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Noodles

Return shredded chicken to the pot. Add thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaves, egg noodles, and water. Stir well.

Step 5: Cook Noodles

Cook over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve

Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup!

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs – Add a few thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch that complements the soup’s flavors.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve the soup with slices of crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread pairs wonderfully, adding a savory crunch to each bite.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan – Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar adds creaminess and a delightful taste that kids love.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Garden Salad – A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can lighten the meal and add freshness.

How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

To make your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and impress everyone at the table.

• Use Quality Broth – Always opt for high-quality chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles – To avoid mushy noodles, cook them just until tender; they will continue cooking in the hot soup.
• Add Vegetables Last – If you prefer crisper vegetables, add them shortly before serving instead of during cooking.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go when seasoning; this ensures balanced flavors without overpowering the soup.
• Incorporate Leftovers – Use leftover roasted chicken to save time and add depth to your soup.
• Adjust Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add extra broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options you might consider.

1. Garlic Toast – Crunchy and buttery garlic toast makes a perfect match for dipping into soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with warm soup.
4. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of chicken noodle soup nicely.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can be filling and exciting alongside your dish.
6. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad brings a hearty element that balances out the lightness of the soup.
7. Cheese Quesadillas – Simple cheese quesadillas offer a cheesy delight that kids especially enjoy.
8. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad provides sweetness and is great for cleansing the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup can be simple, but small missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using low-quality broth: Opt for a rich, flavorful chicken broth instead of water or low-quality stock. This enhances the soup’s overall taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure you check the chicken’s temperature and remove it once it reaches 165°F. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Skipping the aromatics: Don’t skip onions, garlic, or herbs. They add depth to your soup. Make sure to sauté them first for maximum flavor.
• Adding noodles too early: If you add egg noodles at the beginning, they may become mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Not seasoning to taste: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Seasoning can make a significant difference in flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup that might help you out.

Can I use leftover chicken for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes, using leftover roasted chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it before adding it to the soup.

How do I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup healthier?

Consider using whole grain egg noodles or adding more vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta like rotini or fettuccine based on your preference.

How long does homemade chicken noodle soup last?

When refrigerated, it lasts up to 4 days. If frozen, consume within 3 months for best quality.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or use different noodle types based on your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at family gatherings, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike!