Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

The moment that first spoonful of chicken noodle soup hits your tongue, you’re reminded of home, warmth, and everything cozy. This classic recipe features tender shreds of chicken, soft egg noodles, and perfectly sautéed vegetables simmered in a richly seasoned broth.

It’s perfect for chilly nights, under-the-weather days, or anytime you crave something simple and nourishing. This recipe is beloved for its wholesome ingredients, quick prep, and soothing flavor. Customize it by adding your favorite herbs or tossing in extra vegetables for more nutrition and heartiness.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably from rotisserie or leftover roast)

• 6 oz egg noodles

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Pour in chicken broth, add bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

5. Add egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes or until noodles are al dente.

6. Stir in shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

7. Remove from heat, discard bay leaf, stir in parsley and lemon juice.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Few dishes in the world evoke the comfort, warmth, and familiarity that a bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup delivers. From being a go-to remedy during cold and flu season to acting as the heartwarming centerpiece of a family meal, this timeless recipe transcends trends and food fads. Its simplicity, nourishment, and flexibility make it a staple in households around the globe. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or seeking the perfect meal on a chilly evening, chicken noodle soup offers everything you need in one bowl.

A Comforting Classic with Deep Roots

Chicken noodle soup has long been associated with healing, care, and comfort. Traced back to Jewish penicillin (matzo ball soup) and similar cultural interpretations around the world, this dish has made its way into countless cuisines and cookbooks. Its main elements: chicken, broth, vegetables, and noodles, may seem modest, but together they create a depth of flavor and nutrition that rivals much more complex dishes.

This version of classic chicken noodle soup sticks to the basics, honoring tradition while giving you room to make it your own. It starts with a base of aromatic vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery often referred to as a mirepoix in culinary terms. These ingredients not only add flavor but also deliver valuable nutrients. The broth, whether made from scratch or store-bought, ties it all together with its rich, savory essence.

Add in tender chunks of chicken (shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully) and egg noodles, and you’ve got a hearty, satisfying soup that soothes the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup

• Quick and easy: Unlike soups that require hours of simmering, this one comes together in about 40 minutes.

• Customizable: Use whatever vegetables or noodles you have on hand.

• Great for meal prep: It stores well in the fridge or freezer.

• Nutritious and healing: Packed with protein, vitamins, and hydration.

• Kid-approved: Mild, comforting, and easy to eat.

Chicken noodle soup is the kind of dish you can make in large batches and enjoy all week long. It gets better with time as the flavors meld, and it’s just as delicious reheated.

Ingredients That Matter

Let’s break down the key ingredients and their contributions:

1. Chicken

Shredded cooked chicken brings essential protein to the dish. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, it saves time while still providing rich flavor. For a more traditional taste, you can poach your own chicken thighs or breasts directly in the broth.

2. Egg Noodles

Egg noodles add texture and substance. They absorb the broth beautifully and provide the heartiness that transforms this soup from an appetizer to a full meal. Choose wide egg noodles for a more rustic feel or thinner ones for a delicate bite.

3. Vegetables

The classic trio of onion, carrot, and celery creates an aromatic base. Carrots bring sweetness, celery adds subtle earthiness, and onions offer a foundational savory note.

4. Broth

This is the soul of your soup. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the seasoning. Homemade chicken broth or bone broth takes the flavor up several notches if you have the time.

5. Herbs and Seasoning

Dried thyme and bay leaf give your soup the traditional herbal backbone. Fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice at the end brighten everything and add a fresh dimension.

Nutritional Benefits

This chicken noodle soup isn’t just comforting, it’s good for you, too:

• Protein: Chicken provides high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair and immune health.

• Vitamins and minerals: Carrots and celery are packed with beta carotene, potassium, and vitamin K.

• Hydration: Soups are inherently hydrating, helping the body recover faster during illness.

• Low in fat: Unless you add cream or extra oils, this soup remains a lean, heart-healthy option.

The moderate calorie count (approximately 270 per serving) makes it perfect for those watching their intake, and the portion can be easily increased with more veggies or whole grains if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook them just until al dente to avoid sogginess. Remember, they will continue to absorb broth even after the soup is removed from heat.

• Season in layers: Add salt and pepper throughout the cooking process not just at the end for more balanced flavor.

• Use fresh herbs last: Always stir in parsley and lemon juice at the end of cooking to preserve their brightness.

• Freeze in portions: If you’re making this in bulk, freeze individual portions without the noodles, as they can become mushy. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

Easy Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try mixing it up:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer soup.

• Herb-Forward: Add rosemary, dill, or a touch of sage for different herbal profiles.

• Add Grains: Swap noodles with brown rice, barley, or quinoa for a whole-grain twist.

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles or rice noodles if needed.

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and add chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.

When to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup

This dish is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners: Quick to prepare and universally loved.

• Sick days: Gentle on the stomach and hydrating.

• Meal trains: Ideal for delivering to friends or family in need.

• Freezer meals: Great for future busy days or unexpected cravings.

• Lunchboxes: Pack it in a thermos for kids or adults needing a warm meal on the go.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. If you’re freezing it, it’s best to do so without the noodles; cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve to avoid mushiness.

To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until hot. If the soup seems too thick, add a bit of broth or water to bring it back to your preferred consistency.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Classic Chicken Noodle Soup has stood the test of time. It’s a dish that speaks to our need for warmth, comfort, and care whether we’re recovering from a cold or just craving something wholesome. Its simplicity is its strength: a few well-chosen ingredients, a bit of love, and in under an hour you have a bowl full of nourishment.

This soup is endlessly adaptable, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe every home cook should have in their back pocket. With just a little prep, it becomes a go-to meal that feeds the body and soul. So next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner or how to bring comfort to someone you love, remember this chicken noodle soup, it’s a classic for good reason.