Oh, let me tell you about chicken noodle soup! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any time you need a little comfort. This soup is my go-to when the weather gets chilly or when I’m just feeling under the weather. I remember my grandma making it for me as a kid; the aroma of simmering broth and fresh veggies would fill the whole house, and I’d get so excited! It’s not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings families together. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic!
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Chicken Noodle Soup
- First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, ready to bring out all those flavors!
- Next, add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook them until they’re softened, about 5–7 minutes. Oh, the smell of those veggies is just heavenly!
- Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to let it burn; garlic can turn on you quickly!
- Pour in the chicken broth and toss in the shredded chicken, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring it all to a boil—this is where the magic begins!
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully.
- After the simmering, add the egg noodles. Cook them until tender, which should take about 8 minutes. You’ll start to smell that comforting aroma again!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving—it’s like a little surprise in your soup!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup
- It’s quick to make, coming together in just about 45 minutes!
- The perfect comfort food for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
- It’s a wholesome and hearty meal that will warm you from the inside out.
- Can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or herbs for added flavor.
- This soup freezes beautifully, making it great for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
Tips for Success with Chicken Noodle Soup
Alright, friends, let’s make this chicken noodle soup truly shine! Here are my top tips for success that’ll elevate your soup game:
- Use rotisserie chicken: For a quicker prep, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It saves time and adds incredible flavor without any fuss!
- Veggie love: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like peas, corn, or even spinach! They not only enhance the nutrition but also add vibrant color.
- Herb it up: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can really brighten up the flavors. Just sprinkle them in right before serving for a fresh touch!
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on the egg noodles! They can go from perfectly tender to mushy in a flash, so check them a minute or two before the time is up.
- Season as you go: Taste your soup along the way—adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Every broth is a bit different, so don’t be shy about tweaking it!
- Let it sit: If you have the time, let your soup sit for a bit before serving. It allows the flavors to deepen and marry beautifully.
With these tips up your sleeve, you’ll be on your way to making the perfect chicken noodle soup that everyone will love!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Noodle Soup
Let’s talk nutrition! This chicken noodle soup is not just comforting, it’s also packed with goodness. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is about 1 cup:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this soup is a hearty and nutritious option that’s sure to satisfy!
FAQ About Chicken Noodle Soup
Got questions about chicken noodle soup? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my tips and tricks:
Can I use frozen vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Frozen veggies are a great shortcut and work perfectly in this chicken noodle soup. Just toss them in when you add the broth, and you’re good to go!
How long does chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready, heat it up on the stove!
What can I serve with chicken noodle soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal!
Is chicken noodle soup gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free egg noodles and check your chicken broth for any hidden gluten. This way, you can enjoy a hearty bowl without worry!
With these FAQs, I hope I’ve helped clarify any doubts you might have about making this delightful chicken noodle soup. Enjoy every spoonful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Chicken Noodle Soup
So, you’ve made a big pot of delicious chicken noodle soup and want to save some for later? Great idea! This soup stores beautifully, and I’ve got the best tips for keeping it fresh and tasty.
First things first, let your soup cool down a bit after cooking. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer it into airtight containers. I like to portion it out into smaller servings so I can grab a bowl whenever I need a quick meal! The soup will last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. Just make sure to label your containers with the date so you know when it was made.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup! It’s a fantastic way to save it for those busy nights. Just pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It should keep well for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Pour your soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If the noodles seem a bit too soft after freezing, don’t worry! Just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You’ll have that comforting aroma filling your kitchen again in no time!
And there you have it, my foolproof way to store and reheat chicken noodle soup. Enjoy every warm, cozy bite, whether it’s fresh or from the freezer!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Soup
Now that you’ve whipped up a pot of my delicious chicken noodle soup, let’s talk about how to make your meal even cozier and more satisfying! There are so many delightful things you can serve alongside this comforting bowl of goodness.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf or a soft roll is perfect for dipping into the soup. Trust me, there’s nothing like tearing off a piece of bread and soaking up that savory broth!
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic combo is always a winner! A gooey, melty grilled cheese adds that extra layer of comfort and pairs beautifully with the soup.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup. It’s refreshing and adds a nice crunch!
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: For a bit of indulgence, make some cheesy garlic bread! Just top slices of your favorite bread with garlic butter and cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden.
- Steamed Veggies: If you’re looking to keep things healthy, serve some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side. They’ll complement the flavors of the soup while adding extra nutrients!
- Cornbread: For a bit of Southern flair, cornbread is a fantastic side. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs so well with the savory broth!
With these serving suggestions, you’ll take your chicken noodle soup experience to the next level. Mix and match your favorites, and enjoy a complete meal that warms both your heart and your belly!
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Chicken Noodle Soup: 7 Heartwarming Comfort Recipes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A warm and comforting chicken noodle soup perfect for any time.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and add shredded chicken, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add egg noodles and cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- This soup freezes well for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chicken noodle soup, comfort food, easy recipe
