Chicken noodle soup. Just the name conjures up images of warmth, comfort, and maybe even a slightly sniffly nose. But this isn't just your grandma's recipe (although it could be!). This guide will walk you through making a delicious, flavorful chicken noodle soup that's perfect for any occasion, from a cozy night in to a potluck gathering.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather our ingredients. The beauty of chicken noodle soup is its flexibility; feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and how much soup you want to make.
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: For a richer broth, bone-in chicken is key.
- 12 cups water: This ensures plenty of broth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Classic soup vegetable for a savory depth.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a base for the flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A touch of pungent flavor.
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): Enhances the chicken flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A touch of herbal goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Another excellent addition to the herbal flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 cup egg noodles: Or your favorite pasta shape.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Delicious Chicken Noodle Soup
Now for the fun part—making the soup! Follow these steps for a perfectly comforting bowl:
Step 1: Simmering the Chicken
- Place the whole chicken (or chicken pieces) in a large stockpot.
- Add the water, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through. You can even simmer for longer – up to 2 hours – for a richer, deeper flavor.
Step 2: Shredding the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 3: Building Flavor
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
- Return the broth to the pot.
- Add the chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Cooking the Noodles
- Bring the broth back to a simmer.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, until tender.
Step 5: Combining and Serving
- Add the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup
- For a richer broth: Roast the chicken before simmering it for an intensely flavorful soup.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it your own: Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. Consider adding a bay leaf during simmering for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it ahead: Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Beyond the Basics: Variations on a Theme
This basic recipe is a fantastic starting point, but the possibilities are endless! Try these variations:
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Chicken Noodle Soup with Wild Rice: Add a cup of wild rice along with the noodles for added texture and nutrition.
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, zesty flavor.
No matter how you make it, chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that's sure to warm your soul. Enjoy!
