Introduction to Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe
The Comfort of Homemade Chicken Soup
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of chicken soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Homemade chicken soup with egg noodles brings back memories of cozy family dinners and chilly evenings. The aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, warmth, and love. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting dish, this soup is the perfect remedy.
Why Choose This Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe?
This chicken soup with egg noodles recipe is simple yet delicious. It combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles in a savory broth. Not only is it easy to make, but it also allows for creativity. You can add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables in your fridge. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and sure to please everyone in your family. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients for Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe
Essential Ingredients
To create a delightful chicken soup with egg noodles, you’ll need a few key ingredients. These essentials form the base of your soup, ensuring it’s both tasty and comforting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs: Boneless and skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe. It cooks quickly and shreds easily.
- 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles: These noodles add a hearty texture to the soup. They soak up the flavors beautifully.
- 2 medium carrots: Diced carrots bring sweetness and color to your dish.
- 2 celery stalks: Diced celery adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1 medium onion: Chopped onion enhances the aroma and taste of the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic gives a wonderful fragrance and flavor.
- 6 cups (1.5 L) chicken broth: This is the heart of your soup. It provides a rich, savory base.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme adds a lovely herbal note that complements the chicken.
- Salt and pepper: These seasonings are essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, olive oil adds richness.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
While the essential ingredients create a fantastic soup, you can elevate the flavors with a few optional additions. Here are some ideas:
- Bay leaves: Adding a couple of bay leaves while simmering can deepen the flavor. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Fresh herbs: Consider adding fresh parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.
- Peas or corn: These vegetables can add sweetness and color to your soup.
- Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delicious chicken soup with egg noodles. Let’s move on to the preparation steps!
Preparation of Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
To start, you’ll want to prepare the chicken. First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the boneless, skinless chicken. Season it with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want it to be nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken is juicy and tender.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, it’s time to sauté the vegetables. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes. You want the vegetables to soften and release their flavors. After that, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The garlic will become fragrant, adding a wonderful aroma to your kitchen. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your chicken soup with egg noodles recipe.
Step 3: Adding Broth and Seasonings
Now, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. This is the heart of your soup, providing a rich and savory base. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for a lovely herbal note. Bring the mixture to a boil. As it heats up, the flavors will start to meld together, creating a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen. This step is essential for achieving a well-balanced flavor in your soup.
Step 4: Cooking the Egg Noodles
Once the broth is boiling, it’s time to add the egg noodles. Stir them into the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes. You want them to be tender but not mushy. The egg noodles will soak up the delicious broth, making each bite flavorful. This step is where your chicken soup with egg noodles recipe truly comes together.
Step 5: Combining Ingredients
While the noodles are cooking, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Once the noodles are tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything together gently. This ensures that the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the soup. The combination of chicken, noodles, and vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying dish. This step is where you see all your hard work pay off!
Step 6: Final Touches and Serving
Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through. Once ready, ladle the chicken soup into bowls. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of chicken soup with egg noodles! This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing everyone together around the table.
FAQs about Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time and reduce waste. Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this chicken soup with egg noodles recipe. Just add it to the pot after sautéing the vegetables and skip the initial cooking step. This makes your soup even quicker to prepare while still being delicious!
How can I make my Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe gluten-free?
To make your chicken soup with egg noodles gluten-free, simply swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Many brands offer gluten-free options that cook similarly to regular noodles. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package to ensure they don’t become mushy. This way, everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup!
What vegetables can I add to my Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe?
You can customize your chicken soup with egg noodles by adding a variety of vegetables! Some great options include peas, corn, green beans, or even spinach. Feel free to get creative! Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly. Adding different vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your soup.
How long can I store Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe in the fridge?
Your chicken soup with egg noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Just keep in mind that the noodles may absorb some broth during storage, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Can I freeze Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe?
Yes, you can freeze your chicken soup with egg noodles! It freezes well and can be a lifesaver for busy days. Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles if possible. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. You can cook fresh noodles separately to add just before serving for the best texture!
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Chicken Soup with Egg Noodles Recipe: A Cozy Delight!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A warm and comforting chicken soup with egg noodles, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs
- 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups (1.5 L) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery in the same pot for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and add dried thyme. Bring to a boil.
- Add egg noodles to the boiling broth, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook according to package instructions (about 6-8 minutes).
- Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot once the noodles are tender. Stir gently to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding bay leaves while simmering and removing them before serving.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the soup’s freshness.
- Feel free to add peas or corn for added sweetness and color.
- A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors just before serving.
- Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken soup, egg noodles, comfort food, homemade soup, family recipe
