Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Your entire family will love this easy homemade chicken noodle soup recipe! This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to quick weeknight meals. With its rich flavors and warm ingredients, Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• Seasonings and Extras
• Noodles
• How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Step 1: Prepare the Base
• Step 2: Boil the Mixture
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Shred the Chicken
• Step 5: Add Seasonings
• Step 6: Cook Noodles
• Step 7: Final Touches
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Include Crusty Bread
• Garnish with Cheese
• Serve with Salads
• 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
• How can I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup healthier?
• Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
• What type of noodles are best for homemade chicken noodle soup?
• Can I make this soup in advance?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy days.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a healthy option for the whole family.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute chicken with turkey for a twist.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and broth creates a deliciously warming experience.
• Kid-Friendly: The soft egg noodles and tender chicken make it appealing for children.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the essential tools listed below. Having the right equipment will help you prepare this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking large quantities and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, enhancing your preparation speed.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Seasonings and Extras

• 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
• 2 cups water

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

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

Step 2: Boil the Mixture

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, then stir 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: Serve

Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your delicious homemade chicken noodle soup!

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving homemade chicken noodle soup is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re simply enjoying a cozy evening, there are many ways to enhance your soup experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme: A sprinkle of thyme can elevate the flavor profile.

Include Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: Pairing your soup with warm sourdough bread is always a great choice for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Add some garlic bread for a flavorful crunch that complements the soup.

Garnish with Cheese

• Parmesan: Grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully on top of hot soup.
• Cheddar: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar adds richness and depth.

Serve with Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the hearty soup.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad balances the meal perfectly.

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How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting homemade chicken noodle soup takes just a few extra steps. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is always a hit.

• Use Quality Chicken Broth: A good broth makes all the difference in flavor. Consider using homemade broth for richer taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles; they should be tender but not mushy.
• Add Vegetables Early: For best flavor, add harder vegetables like carrots and celery early in the cooking process.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper for the best balance in flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with your homemade chicken noodle soup can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and flavorful, perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Side Salad: A light side salad offers freshness that complements the richness of the soup.
3. Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches provide a melty, comforting addition.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory chicken noodle soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add a gourmet touch to your meal.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavors to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade chicken noodle soup can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for a tender texture. Avoid using tough cuts as they may not shred well.
• Not seasoning adequately: Proper seasoning is crucial. Taste your broth and adjust salt and spices before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Adding vegetables too early can lead to mushy textures. Add them at the right time to maintain their crispness.
• Skipping the broth quality: A flavorful broth is key. Use high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best results.
• Adding noodles too soon: Cook noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers. This prevents them from becoming soggy in the soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container, as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered casserole dish for about 20 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about homemade chicken noodle soup:

How can I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup healthier?

You can substitute whole grain noodles or add more vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition.

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken saves time and adds flavor. Just shred it into small pieces before adding it to the soup.

What type of noodles are best for homemade chicken noodle soup?

Egg noodles work best due to their texture and ability to absorb flavors, but you can also use pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! Homemade chicken noodle soup tastes even better after sitting. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

This homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that your whole family will adore. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!