Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the timeless appeal of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re feeling a little under the weather, this hearty soup delivers warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. Moreover, it’s simple enough to prepare, making it a favorite for both beginner and experienced cooks alike.

What makes this chicken noodle soup truly special is its perfect balance of flavors. The savory broth, tender chicken, and soft egg noodles combine beautifully to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Meanwhile, the addition of fresh vegetables and herbs adds just the right touch of brightness. It’s no wonder this classic recipe has been a staple in kitchens across the country for generations.

Additionally, making your own soup at home means you can control every ingredient, ensuring the healthiest and tastiest result. For instance, using low-sodium chicken stock allows you to manage the salt content, while fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall flavor. On the other hand, if you’re short on time, a rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for perfectly cooked, shredded meat.

Not only is this recipe incredibly versatile, but it’s also ideal for meal prepping. You can easily store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for future meals. Furthermore, the noodles can be cooked separately to keep them from becoming overly soft when reheated.

In short, this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect solution for a quick and cozy meal that your whole family will love. So, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving something soothing, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot every time.

Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of homemade goodness today!

INGREDIENTS
8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups egg noodles
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, ensuring the garlic releases its aroma.
2. Add the stock and seasonings: Pour in the chicken stock and stir in dried thyme, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer the soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for 10–12 minutes. During this time, the flavors will begin to meld together beautifully.
4. Add the chicken and noodles: Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
5. Finish with lemon juice: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in fresh lemon juice. This step brightens the flavors of the soup and balances the richness.
6. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Optional garnishes include fresh parsley or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible: While low-sodium chicken stock and dried herbs work wonderfully, incorporating fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the soup’s flavor. Additionally, freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken provides a richer taste compared to canned options.
• Cook the noodles directly in the broth: For the most flavorful noodles, allow them to absorb the seasoned stock while cooking. However, if you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming too soft over time.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Every chicken stock has varying levels of saltiness, so taste the broth after simmering and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup beautifully without overpowering its comforting flavor.