Need a comforting meal fix? This easy homemade chicken noodle soup is a weeknight dinner staple made with tender chicken, vegetables and noodles. Save for later

Chicken Noodle Soup

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup to soothe the soul and satisfy the taste buds. This classic dish is a staple for a reason – it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit any taste or dietary need. Using everyday ingredients that are likely already stocked in your pantry, you can whip up a pot of this delicious soup in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting remedy for a cold, or a creative way to use up leftover chicken, chicken noodle soup is the perfect solution. In this recipe, we’ll explore the simplicity and versatility of this beloved dish, and provide you with the tools and tips you need to make it your own.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich, savory flavors and light, refreshing notes, all using ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.
Ease of preparation: With a simple and straightforward preparation process, you can have a delicious pot of soup on the table in under 30 minutes.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its ease of preparation, this soup is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Key Ingredients

The key to a great chicken noodle soup is in the quality and balance of its ingredients. You’ll need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 medium onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 8 ounces of egg noodles. You can also customize the recipe to your taste by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or using different seasonings, such as paprika or bay leaves. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and quickly, and ensure that they’re tender and flavorful in the finished soup.
Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped vegetables in a little bit of olive oil until they’re tender and lightly browned. This will bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to the soup.
Step 3: Add the chicken to the pot and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through. Then, add the chicken broth, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Then, add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until they’re tender and the soup has reached your desired consistency.

Handy Tips

Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content of the soup, and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms, to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
Use leftover cooked chicken or turkey to make the soup, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Heat Control

To ensure that your soup is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to control the heat and cooking time. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in chicken noodle soup comes from the vegetables and noodles, which should be tender but still retain some texture. To achieve this, cook the vegetables until they’re tender but still crisp, and cook the noodles until they’re al dente. You can also add some crunchy toppings, such as chopped fresh herbs or crispy croutons, to the soup for added texture and flavor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a mixture of chicken broth and water to create a rich and flavorful soup without adding too much salt.
Add a splash of wine or vinegar to the soup for added depth and complexity.
Use a variety of herbs and spices to create a unique and aromatic flavor profile.

Storage Tips

Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it to prevent bacterial growth and foodborne illness.
Store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheat the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent scorching or burning.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Chicken noodle soup is a thoughtful and practical gift for friends and family, especially during the cold and flu season. Package the soup in airtight containers or jars, and add some crusty bread or crackers for a complete and comforting meal. You can also add some fresh herbs or edible flowers to the packaging for a touch of elegance and whimsy.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick.
🌟 Use different types of noodles, such as rice noodles or quinoa noodles, for a gluten-free or low-carb version.
🌟 Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to the soup for a bright and refreshing flavor.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the soup is too thick, add some more chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, add some more noodles or simmer it for a few more minutes.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use beef or vegetable broth instead. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use rice or quinoa instead.
Over/undercooking signs: If the chicken is overcooked, it will be dry and tough. If it’s undercooked, it will be pink and juicy. If the vegetables are overcooked, they will be mushy and unappetizing. If they’re undercooked, they will be crunchy and raw.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the soup by using gluten-free noodles or rice, and being careful with the ingredients and seasonings.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for any occasion. With its rich and flavorful broth, tender chicken and vegetables, and satisfying crunch from the noodles, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy dinner solution, a health-conscious individual seeking a nutritious and filling meal, or a creative cook looking for a versatile and customizable recipe, chicken noodle soup is the perfect choice.! So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own – your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you.

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