Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups egg noodles

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup when the weather turns chilly. There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of simmering chicken and vegetables filling the house. As the broth bubbles, it invites everyone to gather and enjoy a warm bowl together. The tender noodles and juicy chicken make every spoonful a delightful experience. This soup is not just a dish to warm you up; it’s a reminder of family meals and cozy moments shared at home. I promise, you’ll want to make this recipe on repeat!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:58:28.493Z

When I first crafted this Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup, I wanted to create a blend of flavors that would transport me back to childhood. One key tip I discovered is to sauté the vegetables before adding the broth; this enhances their flavors significantly. The warmth and richness of the spices really shine through this process.

As the soup simmers, I often find myself experimenting with add-ins like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lime juice for brightness. This flexibility ensures that every bowl feels unique, just like the moments shared over it.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Comforting warmth in every bite
Packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken
Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather

Perfecting the Broth

The broth is the heart of any great chicken noodle soup. Using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor immensely. If you have leftover carcasses from a roast chicken, simmer them with water, carrots, onions, and herbs for at least 2 hours. This creates a deep, flavorful base that enhances the dish. However, store-bought options are perfectly acceptable; just opt for low-sodium varieties to control the seasoning better as you build flavors.

If you prefer a richer broth, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of soy sauce when you add the chicken. These ingredients can enhance the umami profile of the soup. For a twist, incorporate a few slices of fresh ginger while simmering the broth; it adds warmth and depth, making your soup feel extra cozy.

Noodle Choices and Tips

Egg noodles are traditional for chicken noodle soup, but feel free to explore other varieties like wide rice noodles or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. If using gluten-free noodles, cook them separately and add them to bowls before ladling the hot soup over them, as they can become mushy if cooked directly in the broth. This ensures the texture remains intact.

Timing is key when adding noodles to the pot. Cook them just until al dente, about 10 minutes as directed, but test them a minute early. The noodles continue absorbing liquid after being removed from heat, so slightly undercooking them will prevent them from becoming overly soft in the final dish.

Serving and Storage Tips

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and consider garnishing with fresh parsley or dill for a touch of color and freshness. A dash of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the flavors, making the soup feel more vibrant. For additional heartiness, serve with crusty bread or a side salad.

This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, be mindful to simmer gently on the stove rather than microwaving, as that can lead to overcooked noodles.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups egg noodles

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, thyme, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Cook the Noodles

Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook for about 10 minutes until they are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Pro Tips

For an even deeper flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth or roast the chicken before adding it to the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute with unsalted butter for a richer flavor or even avocado oil for a neutral profile. For the chicken, leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time in the cooking process. Just shred it and add it directly to the pot when simmering the broth.

Vegetarian variations can be easily made by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth and omitting the chicken altogether. For a heartier base, add beans like chickpeas or white beans, and toss in extra vegetables such as potatoes or green beans for a nutrient boost.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too salty, try adding a peeled potato to the pot while it simmers. The potato absorbs excess salt, helping to balance the flavor. Cook it for about 15-20 minutes or until tender, then discard it before serving.

In case your soup gets too thick after refrigerating, add a splash of water or more broth when reheating to loosen it up. If the noodles swell and absorb too much liquid, making the soup seem dry, this method helps restore the right consistency while maintaining flavor.

Variations to Try

Add a spiced kick to your soup by incorporating a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or slices of fresh jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables. For a herbal twist, experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary instead of dried herbs; these Aromatic herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or zucchini can add depth and a pop of color to your soup. Add these chopped vegetables after sautéing the initial ingredients and allow them to cook until tender, around 5-7 minutes, before proceeding with the broth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze it, as they can become mushy when reheated.

→ What kind of chicken should I use?

You can use rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or boil chicken breasts in the broth for added flavor.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, green beans, or any other favorites you have on hand.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.