Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. With tender pieces of chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles, this classic recipe is a go-to for chilly evenings, cozy family dinners, or when you’re feeling under the weather.

This homemade chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or to soothe someone feeling unwell, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Stick around for step-by-step instructions to create this timeless comfort food from scratch!

Why I Make This Chicken Noodle Soup Every Weekend

1. Comfort in Every Spoonful
   The rich, savory broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles create a soul-soothing dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
2. Wholesome and Nutritious
   Made with fresh ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and herbs, this soup is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals—perfect for fueling the week ahead.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
   This recipe makes a generous batch, and leftovers reheat beautifully. It’s ideal for meal prep, providing quick, satisfying lunches or dinners throughout the week.
4. Customizable for Everyone
   You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your family’s tastes—add extra veggies, swap the noodles for rice or gluten-free pasta, or adjust the seasoning for a unique twist.
5. Simple and Affordable
   With everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is as budget-friendly as it is easy to make, making it a no-brainer for weekend cooking.

Making this chicken noodle soup every weekend has become a comforting tradition, and I promise it’ll become one of yours too!

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup

For the Broth:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs) or 4–5 bone-in chicken thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon cubes)
• 1 medium onion, peeled and halved
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cups egg noodles (or your preferred noodles)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

These wholesome ingredients come together to create a delicious, homemade chicken noodle soup that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Ready to cook? Let’s dive into the instructions!

Instructions for Chicken Noodle Soup

Prepare the Broth

Place the whole chicken (or chicken thighs) in a large pot. Add the chicken broth, onion halves, garlic, celery, carrots, bay leaf, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45–60 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve to remove the vegetables and aromatics, leaving a clear, flavorful broth. Discard the strained solids and return the broth to the pot.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Simmer the Soup

Pour the strained broth back into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add the Chicken

Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Allow it to heat through for 2–3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chicken noodle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete, comforting meal.

This hearty and delicious chicken noodle soup is ready to warm your weekend and nourish your soul!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor
   Cooking the chicken with the bones adds depth and richness to the broth. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great alternative for convenience.
2. Skim the Broth
   As the chicken simmers, skim off any foam or impurities from the surface of the broth. This will result in a clearer, more flavorful soup.
3. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
   Cook the noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy. If you’re planning to store leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls before serving.
4. Season Gradually
   Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process. Start with a small amount of salt, as the broth will intensify in flavor as it reduces.
5. Add a Squeeze of Lemon
   A splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the broth.
6. Boost the Herbs
   Fresh parsley, thyme, or dill can elevate the soup’s flavor. Add a handful of fresh herbs toward the end of cooking for a fragrant finish.
7. Make It Ahead
   Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store the soup and noodles separately to maintain the best texture.

With these tips, your chicken noodle soup will turn out perfectly every time—full of flavor, warmth, and comfort!

Storing and Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

Storing

• Refrigerator: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, store the noodles separately from the broth to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Freezer: Chicken noodle soup freezes well, but it’s best to leave out the noodles, as they can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the broth, chicken, and vegetables in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, cook fresh noodles to add after reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.
• Microwave: Place a portion of the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Thawed Frozen Soup: If reheating from frozen, let the soup thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave as usual.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure your chicken noodle soup remains just as flavorful and comforting as when it was freshly made!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Serve your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad like a Burger Bowl adds a refreshing balance of textures and flavors to your meal.
• Roasted Veggies: Complement your soup with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrients and a pop of color.
• Cheesy Snacks: Indulge in cheesy goodness with these Loaded Taco Cheesy Pockets as a hearty, fun side dish.
• Lean Protein: If you’re serving a crowd, pair the soup with tender and flavorful Thin Chicken Breasts for an extra boost of protein.

Whether you keep it simple or go all out with sides, these suggestions will turn your chicken noodle soup into a complete and unforgettable meal.

Creative Variations for Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic, but it’s also incredibly versatile! Here are some creative variations to put a unique spin on this comforting dish:

1. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Add a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk to the broth for a rich and creamy texture. You can also whisk in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch for extra thickness.

2. Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup

Brighten up the flavor with the juice and zest of one lemon. Add chopped fresh dill for an extra burst of freshness.

3. Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Give your soup a kick by adding a teaspoon of chili flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño. It’s a perfect option for spice lovers.

4. Chicken Tortellini Soup

Replace the noodles with cheese or spinach-filled tortellini for a heartier twist. It’s a great way to add extra flavor and texture.

5. Vegetable-Packed Soup

Add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, kale, mushrooms, or peas for a nutrient-packed version. This is a great way to make the dish even healthier.

6. Gluten-Free Chicken Soup

Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, rice noodles, or cooked rice to make the soup gluten-free without compromising on flavor.

7. Asian-Inspired Chicken Soup

Replace the thyme and parsley with fresh ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Use rice noodles instead of egg noodles, and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

8. Chicken and Barley Soup

Substitute noodles with pearl barley for a nutty, chewy texture that makes the soup extra hearty.

9. Herb-Infused Soup

Add a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano to the broth for a more aromatic and flavorful soup.

These variations allow you to customize chicken noodle soup to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or cravings. Experiment and find your new favorite version!

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?
   Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the final minutes of cooking to heat it through.
2. What kind of noodles work best for chicken noodle soup?
   Egg noodles are the classic choice for their soft, chewy texture, but you can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, rotini, or gluten-free noodles. Cook them directly in the broth for more flavor, or separately if you plan to store leftovers.
3. How do I make the soup thicker?
   For a thicker soup, you can whisk 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour into a small amount of cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup. Alternatively, add a few tablespoons of cream for richness.
4. Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
   Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles. Noodles can become mushy when thawed and reheated. Simply cook fresh noodles and add them when serving.
5. How can I enhance the flavor of my chicken noodle soup?
   Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dash of soy sauce for added depth. You can also simmer the broth with a parmesan rind or add a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a soothing dish to enjoy on a chilly day, or a classic recipe to share with family and friends, this homemade version has you covered.

With its customizable ingredients, endless variations, and nourishing qualities, chicken noodle soup is a dish that never goes out of style. By following the tips and ideas in this guide, you’ll have a recipe that’s easy to make and always satisfying.

Ready to bring comfort to your table? Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!

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