Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, An Ultimate Comfort Food That You Can Easily Prepare At Home

Chicken noodle soup is a timeless comfort food beloved by many. Its warm, soothing qualities make it the perfect dish for cold days, ailing health, or simply when you need a bowl of nourishing goodness.

This classic recipe has been passed down through generations, offering a hearty combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, fresh vegetables, and soft noodles.

Whether you're making it for a family dinner or as a remedy for a cold, chicken noodle soup is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that always hits the spot. Check out the steps to create a delicious homemade chicken noodle soup, from preparing the ingredients to achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds), or 4 bone-in chicken breasts or thighs
• 10 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles or your preferred pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• Optional: 1 lemon, juiced for a touch of brightness

How To Prepare

1. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, add the chicken and 10 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the top using a spoon. This will help keep your broth clear.

2. After the initial simmer, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. These vegetables are essential for building the base flavor of your soup. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and parsley to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

3. Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat using two forks, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

4. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking the noodles separately helps prevent them from becoming overly soft and mushy in the soup.

5. Add the cooked noodles to the soup pot. Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you're using lemon juice, add it at this stage for a bright, fresh note that enhances the overall flavor.

6. Once everything is well combined and heated through, your chicken noodle soup is ready to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Nutritional Values

This chicken noodle soup is easy to make and full of flavour. The combination of tender chicken, soft noodles, and fresh vegetables makes it a wholesome meal. Enjoy this soup on a cold day or when you need some comfort food.