If you’re craving a bowl of warmth that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly day, this Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of dish that’s been handed down through kitchens for generations, combining tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and vibrant vegetables all swimming in a rich, savory broth. Every spoonful brings together flavors and textures that soothe the soul while sparking a little joy. Whether you’re nursing a cold or simply want to cozy up with a fabulous home-cooked meal, this recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients are the secret behind this soup’s irresistible appeal. Each component is essential, lending texture, flavor, or color that elevates this Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken: Provides tender, juicy protein that’s the heart of the soup.
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium): Creates a flavorful, savory base that’s both nourishing and rich.
- 3 cups egg noodles (wide noodles): Adds satisfying chewiness and a nostalgic element everyone loves.
- 2 medium carrots (sliced): Offer sweetness and vibrant color while adding subtle texture.
- 2 stalks celery (diced): Contribute freshness and a gentle crunch that balances the softness.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Builds depth and aroma right from the first sauté.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Infuses an earthy, herbaceous note that subtly brightens the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a warm, fragrant kick that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 leaf bay leaf (remove before serving): Enhances complexity with its mildly floral, slightly sweet flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): The simple seasonings that tie every flavor together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a final pop of green freshness and brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Assemble Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before turning on the stove. Having everything ready—chicken, broth, veggies, and spices—helps you cook smoothly and lets the flavors come together naturally as the magic begins.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Toss in the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and diced celery, sautéing until they become tender and release their natural sweetness, about 5 to 7 minutes. This forms the aromatic foundation of the soup.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme
Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, allowing them to cook for about a minute. This step fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that draws everyone closer to the stove, building anticipation for that first comforting bite.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer
Pour the chicken broth into your pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This simmering step lets all the flavors meld, creating a broth that’s both savory and soothing.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Carefully add the chicken breasts to the simmering broth. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender enough to shred easily. This slow cooking ensures the chicken soaks up the flavor.
Step 6: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest just long enough to handle comfortably. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces that are perfect for chewing, ready to return to the comforting broth.
Step 7: Add Noodles and Chicken Back to Soup
Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot, then add the egg noodles. Allow everything to simmer together for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still have a bit of bite, making every spoonful wonderfully satisfying.
Step 8: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor that brightens each serving. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of cracked black pepper are excellent garnishes. They add a fresh dimension and visual appeal, making a simple bowl feel like a special occasion.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a simple salad. These sides enhance the meal by providing variety in texture and a way to soak up any leftover broth you don’t want to miss.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your soup in bread bowls, or top it with crispy fried onions or shredded cheese. You can also portion it into individual mason jars for an inviting and portable lunch or cozy picnic option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for easy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
This Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months and still tastes just as comforting when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the noodles absorbed too much broth during storage, add a splash of water or broth to restore that perfect soup consistency before serving.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! If you have leftover chicken, just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through, adjusting the cooking time so the noodles stay tender without overcooking the chicken.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free noodles or even spiralized vegetables for a grain-free option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I use store-bought broth?
Of course! Store-bought broth works perfectly and is a great time saver. Just opt for low-sodium varieties so you can control the seasoning as the soup cooks.
How do I avoid mushy vegetables in my soup?
To keep vegetables tender but not mushy, sauté them just until softened in Step 2, and maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil during cooking to preserve texture.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the soup?
Feel free to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a dash of smoked paprika, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also add a bright flavor contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a delicious way to nourish yourself and your loved ones with simple, heartfelt flavors. Whether you’re chasing away the cold or just want something to feel good about eating, this soup delivers every time. So go ahead, give it a try, and embrace the comfort in every cozy bowl!
Print
Comforting Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting classic chicken noodle soup is a soulful, homemade recipe perfect for cozy moments. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and hearty wide egg noodles, it’s a warm and nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to soothe your soul.
Ingredients
Protein and Broth
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium)
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 splash of cooking oil (for sautéing)
Carbohydrates
- 3 cups wide egg noodles
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients including chicken, broth, vegetables, and spices to have everything ready for cooking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sauté chopped onions, sliced carrots, and diced celery for 5-7 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Add Aromatics and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the simmering broth. Cover and allow to cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Remove chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Cook Noodles with Chicken: Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir in egg noodles. Simmer for about 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt content.
- Sautéing the vegetables before adding broth enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried thyme—use 1 tablespoon fresh if preferred.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles.
