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This chicken noodle soup is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening or when you need some comfort without a lot of fuss. It comes together quickly enough for weeknights but brings that homemade goodness that reminds you of family kitchens and cozy moments.
I often reach for this when I want a soothing meal after a long day. One time, I made a big pot just before a snowstorm and it ended up being the best meal to curl up with all evening.
Ingredients
- Onion: adds sweetness and a savory base choose firm and smell fresh
- Carrots: bring subtle sweetness and a pop of color pick firm bright orange ones
- Celery: provides an aromatic base and slight crunch go for crisp fresh stalks
- Garlic: adds depth and warmth peel and finely chop for best flavor
- Olive oil: helps sauté the vegetables smoothly use extra virgin for richness
- Chicken broth: is the soul of the soup opt for low sodium for better control
- Thyme: offers savory, slightly floral notes fresh is best but dried works fine
- Parsley: brightens the broth and adds color use fresh for vibrant taste
- Black pepper: adds mild heat freshly cracked is ideal
- Salt: enhances all flavors season gradually
- Bay leaf: infuses an earthy depth remove before serving
- Lemon juice: brightens the soup adding balance optional but recommended
- Cooked chicken: gives substance and protein use leftover roast or boiled chicken
- Egg noodles: create comforting texture pick fresh or dried according to preference
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Cook the chopped onion carrots and celery in olive oil over medium heat. Stir occasionally while cooking for about eight minutes until the vegetables soften and start to caramelize. This develops sweetness and the flavor foundation of the soup.
- Add The Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter and affect the whole soup. This adds aromatic warmth to the base.
- Combine Broth And Seasonings:
- Pour in the chicken broth adding thyme parsley black pepper salt and the bay leaf. Stir gently to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer then reduce the heat slightly so it stays at a gentle bubbling.
- Add Chicken And Noodles:
- Add the cooked chicken pieces and egg noodles to the broth. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Keep an eye on the texture so the noodles don&t get mushy.
- Finish And Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Stir in juice from half a lemon if using to add brightness. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of pepper if you like.
I always reach for fresh thyme because its aroma fills the kitchen and tastes so much brighter than dried. This soup reminds me of sitting with my grandma as she stirred a big pot explaining every little step.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best texture, keep noodles separate and add when reheating.
Ingredient swaps
If you prefer a vegetarian version use vegetable broth and tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken. Pasta-wise rice noodles or gluten free pasta work well for dietary needs.
Serving ideas
Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a light meal. A drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a nice finisher.
These little details turn a simple soup into something unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What vegetables enhance the flavor best?
Onions, carrots, and celery provide a classic flavor base, creating a sweet and savory foundation when sautéed.
- → How do herbs affect the broth?
Thyme and parsley add earthy and fresh notes that deepen the broth’s complexity without overpowering the chicken.
- → What cooking method yields tender noodles?
Simmering the noodles directly in the broth allows them to absorb flavor while reaching ideal tenderness.
- → Can lemon juice be omitted?
Yes, but adding lemon juice brightens the broth, balancing savory and herbal elements with a subtle tang.
- → How long does it take to prepare this dish?
About 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for a wholesome meal.