Ultimate Comfort Classic: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup!
Meta Description: Savor the warmth and comfort of homemade chicken noodle soup, a timeless classic packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles. Perfect for cozy nights or fighting off a cold.
Why Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Is the Best Comfort Food
There's something magical about a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. It's hearty, flavorful, and soothing, making it the perfect dish for any time you need a little extra comfort.
Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh, simple ingredients you can trust.
- Customizable Recipe: Tailor it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and noodles.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and a rich broth that's good for the soul.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Easy to store and reheat for busy days or whenever cravings strike.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- Chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs) or 4 bone-in chicken thighs.
- Vegetables:
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Herbs and Spices:
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Broth: 8 cups chicken broth or stock
For the Noodles:
- 2 cups egg noodles (or substitute with your favorite pasta)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a fresh kick
Instructions
1. Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot, place the chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Add water if needed.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
2. Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Strain the Broth (Optional)
- For a clearer soup, strain the broth to remove vegetable chunks and herbs. Return the strained broth to the pot.
4. Cook the Noodles
- Bring the broth to a gentle boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 6-8 minutes.
5. Combine and Season
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice if desired.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
- Make It Ahead: The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier.
- Freeze for Later: Store portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Use Homemade Broth: If time permits, making your own broth from scratch adds unbeatable flavor.
- Boost Nutrition: Add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.