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There’s nothing like a warm bowl of homestyle chicken noodle soup to soothe your soul. This cozy dish combines tender chicken, tasty noodles, and fresh veggies, creating a comforting meal for any day. I’ll guide you through the essential ingredients and easy steps to make this beloved classic. Get ready to fill your kitchen with heartwarming aromas and a dish that feels like home. Let’s dive into making your new favorite soup!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Warmth: This chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days and when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Hearty Ingredients: Packed with tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, and hearty egg noodles, it’s a meal that satisfies and nourishes.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total preparation time, you can whip up a delicious homemade soup with minimal effort.
- Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables, making this recipe versatile to suit your personal taste.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
To make a warm bowl of homestyle chicken noodle soup, gather these key items:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients form the base of the soup. Each one adds its own special flavor, making the dish cozy and comforting.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
You can spice up your soup with these optional ingredients:
– A splash of lemon juice for brightness
– A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
– Fresh herbs like dill or thyme for added aroma
– Corn or peas for a touch of sweetness
Adding any of these can elevate your soup. Each option brings a new twist to the classic recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions and Tips
Don’t have an ingredient? No problem! Here are some easy swaps:
– Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for richer flavor.
– Replace egg noodles with rice or gluten-free noodles if needed.
– If you lack fresh herbs, dried herbs work just fine.
These substitutions ensure you can still enjoy a delicious bowl of soup. Adjust to your taste and what you have on hand!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients. You need:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
First, wash and chop the vegetables. Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. This step is key for flavor.
Cooking Process Overview
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes. You want them to soften but not brown.
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until you can smell the garlic. It makes the soup smell amazing.
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This part is important; you want a good rolling boil. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the noodles are tender and perfect.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
After cooking, taste the soup. Add salt and pepper to fit your taste. Remember to take out the bay leaf before serving; it’s not meant to be eaten.
Serve the soup hot, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This adds color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your cozy bowl of chicken noodle soup!
Tips & Tricks
How to Make the Soup Extra Flavorful
To boost flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth. It lets you control salt levels. Fresh herbs like thyme add depth. You can also try adding a squeeze of lemon. It brightens the taste. For a richer flavor, sauté the veggies longer. This caramelizes their natural sugars. Try adding a splash of soy sauce for umami. It works well with the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid boiling the noodles too long. This can make them mushy. Always add them near the end of cooking. Watch the heat level when cooking. Too high can make the broth cloudy. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. It’s not pleasant to eat. Lastly, taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end. This ensures a balanced flavor.
Recommended Tools for Cooking
You need a large pot for making the soup. A good knife helps with chopping veggies. A cutting board is essential for safety. Use measuring cups for accurate amounts. A ladle makes serving easy. If you have one, a timer helps keep track of cooking times. Having these tools makes the process smoother. Enjoy making your cozy soup!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your soup significantly. Try adding fresh thyme or parsley just before serving for a vibrant taste.
- Chicken Choices: For a richer flavor, use rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. The added seasoning will enhance the overall taste of your soup.
- Customize Your Noodles: Feel free to experiment with different types of noodles. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can be a healthier alternative to classic egg noodles.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat and add a splash of broth to bring it back to life!

Variations
Vegetarian Options for Chicken Noodle Soup
You can easily make a tasty vegetarian version of chicken noodle soup. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Use cooked chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken for protein. Add more veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. This way, you keep the cozy feel while fitting a vegetarian diet.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
For a gluten-free soup, choose gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles. You can also use quinoa as a great alternative. Check that your broth is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This keeps the soup safe for those with gluten sensitivities while still being comforting.
Creative Add-Ins and Modifications
Get creative with your soup by adding fun ingredients. Try adding peas or corn for a pop of sweetness. You can also stir in fresh spinach or kale for extra health benefits. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. These small changes can turn a simple soup into something special.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftover Soup
To keep your soup fresh, let it cool first. Use an airtight container to store it. Label the container with the date. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Tips for Future Meals
For freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when it freezes. Portion the soup into smaller servings. This way, you can thaw only what you need. Chicken noodle soup can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions for Best Results
When you are ready to eat your soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Heat it in a pot over medium heat. Stir the soup often to avoid sticking. If it seems thick, add a bit of water or broth. Taste and adjust your seasoning before serving. Enjoy your cozy soup like it’s fresh!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and add it to the pot. This makes your soup ready in a flash!
How long can I store homemade chicken noodle soup?
You can store homemade chicken noodle soup in the fridge for about three days. Keep it in a sealed container. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
What are the best noodles for this recipe?
Egg noodles work best for chicken noodle soup. They cook quickly and soak up the broth well. You can also try other types like wide noodles or even whole wheat noodles if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious homestyle chicken noodle soup. We covered essential ingredients, cooking steps, and clever tips to enhance flavor. You can also try variations like vegetarian options and gluten-free adaptations. Remember to store leftovers properly for later use.
Now, you can create a warm, tasty soup for any occasion. Use these tips to make your soup special. Enjoy every bite, knowing you made it yoursel
Cozy Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
A warm and comforting chicken noodle soup perfect for chilly days.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 units carrots, sliced
- 2 units celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 leaf bay leaf
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor.
Keyword chicken, comfort food, noodle, soup
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