There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup to soothe both the body and the soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving comfort food, or simply in the mood for something warm, this classic chicken noodle soup recipe is sure to hit the spot. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and is a meal the whole family can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles or your preferred pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Base Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the onion becomes translucent. This step helps build the soup’s base, bringing out the sweetness of the vegetables.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Then, stir in the bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. These aromatic herbs will infuse the broth with a lovely, comforting flavor.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth Now it’s time to add the chicken broth. Pour in the six cups of broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the broth simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Once the broth has simmered, it’s time to add the shredded chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it with your hands or a fork. Stir it into the soup and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles Add the egg noodles (or your preferred pasta) to the pot. Allow the noodles to cook in the broth for about 7-10 minutes, or until they’re tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Step 6: Season to Taste Once the noodles are cooked, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper. You can adjust the seasonings to your preference, adding more herbs or spices if you like.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve it with a side of warm bread, crackers, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, making your own chicken broth will elevate the flavor of your soup. You can even make a big batch and freeze it for future soups!
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and variety.
- Noodle Choice: While egg noodles are the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as fusilli, rotini, or even whole wheat noodles.
- Shredded Chicken: If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can cook boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs separately, shred them, and then add them to the soup.
- Make It Your Own: Customize the soup with your favorite herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat, while a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors.
Why Chicken Noodle Soup Is So Special:
This classic chicken noodle soup recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a remedy for the body and the heart. The warm broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles create a soothing combination that has been comforting people for generations. It’s a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of cozy afternoons and caring hands, and it’s perfect for nourishing both your body and your spirit.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter day or feeding it to someone who’s not feeling well, chicken noodle soup is a timeless dish that will always bring comfort. Try this recipe the next time you’re craving a little homemade warmth—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
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