Nothing beats the comfort of a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather.
I remember my mom making this for me as a kid, and the smell alone would make everything feel better.
This recipe is my go-to now, passed down with a few tweaks to make it quick and simple without losing that cozy, homemade vibe.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping something soothing for a sick day, this easy chicken noodle soup will warm your heart and soul.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This chicken noodle soup is a hug in a bowl, packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and veggies in a savory broth.
It’s quick to make, ready in about 45 minutes, and uses simple ingredients that deliver big flavor.
Perfect for beginners or busy cooks, it’s versatile—swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
Plus, it’s budget-friendly and freezes beautifully for meal prep.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknights.
- Comforting: Warm, hearty, and nostalgic, great for any mood or season.
- Customizable: Adjust veggies, noodles, or spices to your taste.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and veggies for a wholesome meal.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and save for later.
Read Also: Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Ingredients For Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
You’ll need basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients to make this soup. Here’s what to gather:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced (about 150g)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced (about 200g)
- 2 celery stalks, sliced (about 100g)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups (2 liters) chicken broth
- 2 cups (300g) cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie works great)
- 2 cups (200g) egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
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Kitchen Equipment Needed
Grab these tools to make your cooking process smooth. Most are likely already in your kitchen.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Start by washing your carrots and celery. On a cutting board, use a chef’s knife to dice the onion into small pieces, about ¼-inch (0.6 cm) in size.
Slice the carrots into thin rounds, about ⅛-inch (0.3 cm) thick, for even cooking. Chop the celery into similar-sized pieces.
Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor. Having all your veggies prepped makes the cooking process seamless.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion.
Stir with a wooden spoon for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent.
Add the sliced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 8 cups (2 liters) of chicken broth, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and 1 bay leaf.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste—start with about ½ teaspoon of each and adjust later.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Cook the Noodles
Add 2 cups (200g) of egg noodles to the simmering broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook for 6-8 minutes or according to the package instructions until the noodles are al dente.
Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as they’ll continue to soften in the hot broth.
5. Add the Chicken
Stir in 2 cups (300g) of shredded chicken breast. If using rotisserie chicken, ensure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces.
Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to blend.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed.
6. Serve the Soup
Remove the bay leaf from the pot and discard it. Use a ladle to serve the soup into bowls.
If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately while hot.
Read Also: Avgolemono Soup Recipe
Tips for Success
To make your chicken noodle soup shine, follow these tips based on my trial and error in the kitchen. They’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate the flavor.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
- Don’t overcook the egg noodles; they should be slightly firm when added to the soup.
- Shred the chicken finely for even distribution in every spoonful.
- Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh flavor.
- If the soup thickens after sitting, add a bit more broth when reheating.
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Serving Suggestions
This chicken noodle soup is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with sides can make it even more satisfying. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or a soothing lunch when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the broth.
- Pair with a light salad, like my Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint Recipe.
- Add a side of crackers for a classic, kid-friendly touch.
- Top with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for richness.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of green tea for added comfort.
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Variations to Try
This recipe is super flexible, so you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to mix things up:
- Swap egg noodles for rice or quinoa for a gluten-free version.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens.
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday twist.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
Read Also: Chicken Chesapeake Recipe
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers properly to enjoy this soup later. It keeps well and reheats like a dream.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container like the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, adding a splash of chicken broth if too thick.
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Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg (varies with broth)
- Sugar: 3g
Read Also: Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with ingredients that are good for you. From immune-boosting chicken broth to nutrient-rich veggies, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Chicken: High in protein, supports muscle health and keeps you full.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, great for eye health and immunity.
- Celery: Low in calories, provides hydration and fiber.
- Garlic: Has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Chicken Broth: Soothes colds and aids digestion.
Read Also: Health Benefits of Chicken Broth
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade chicken broth?
Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth adds incredible flavor and lets you control the sodium. Just simmer chicken bones with water, veggies, and herbs for a few hours, then strain.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add more veggies like mushrooms or tofu for heartiness.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles or substitute with rice or quinoa. Double-check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.
4. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, add raw chicken breast to the simmering broth in step 3. Cook for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then shred and return to the pot.
5. How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?
Cook egg noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when serving. This keeps them from absorbing too much broth during storage.
Read Also: Vegan Fall Recipes
Final Thoughts
This easy chicken noodle soup recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.
It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a friend who needs a little TLC.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—you don’t need fancy skills or hours in the kitchen to make something truly comforting. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, so you can make it your own.
Next time you’re craving something warm and hearty, give this a try and savor every spoonful.
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