Description
Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that soothes the soul and supports fast recovery from colds and flu. Combining tender chicken, nourishing broth, hearty egg noodles, and fresh herbs, this easy-to-make soup hydrates, boosts immunity, and comforts with every warm spoonful. Perfect for busy days and cozy moments, it delivers wholesome nutrition and familiar flavors that have been loved for generations.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into chunks or thin strips
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, chopped into bite-size pieces
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Noodles
- 6 oz classic egg noodles
Broth & Seasoning
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Variations
- Zucchini, spinach, or kale (for extra vegetables)
- Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop carrots, celery, and onion into bite-size pieces. Mince the garlic and cut the chicken into small chunks or thin strips. Having everything ready ensures smooth cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, creating a flavorful base.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Add the chicken pieces to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the broth is infused with flavor.
- Cook the Noodles: Once the chicken is tender, add egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually 6 to 8 minutes, until noodles are just tender but still chewy.
- Finish with Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in freshly chopped thyme and parsley. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use homemade broth whenever possible for richer flavor and better nutrition.
- Add noodles near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
- For easier eating and better texture, shred cooked chicken instead of chopping if preferred.
- Add fresh herbs last to preserve vibrant color and fresh aroma.
- Taste before adding salt, especially when using store-bought broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: chicken noodle soup, comfort food, immune booster, cold remedy, easy soup recipe, homemade chicken soup, gluten-free chicken soup