Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s made with tender chunks of chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful broth loaded with carrots, celery, and a touch of herbs. Each spoonful is soothing and familiar, making it a go-to meal when you want something simple but so satisfying.
I love making a big pot of this soup and letting it simmer slowly so the flavors really blend together. One of my favorite things is adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top just before serving—that little burst of green makes it feel extra special. It’s also a great recipe to customize; sometimes I throw in a little garlic or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up.
Nothing beats enjoying a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup when you’re feeling a bit under the weather or just need some cozy vibes at the end of a long day. I often serve it with warm crusty bread for dipping, which turns the meal into a little celebration of simple, delicious food. This soup always reminds me of family dinners and the kind of care that goes into making food that truly warms you up from the inside out.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, but boiled or baked chicken breast works fine too. For a lighter option, try shredded turkey.
Broth: Homemade chicken broth gives the richest flavor, but low-sodium store-bought broth is a great time-saver. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter taste or a vegetarian twist.
Noodles: Egg noodles are classic and hold up well without getting mushy. If you want a gluten-free option, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Or try small shells or ditalini for a different texture.
Vegetables: Onion, celery, and carrots create a perfect base called mirepoix. If you don’t have celery, substitute with fennel or extra carrots. Fresh garlic adds a nice kick but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
How Do You Get Clear, Flavorful Broth Without Cloudiness?
A clear broth really makes this soup shine. Here are my tips:
- Simmer gently: Bring broth to a boil, then lower heat to a steady simmer to avoid cloudiness.
- Skim foam: During simmering, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface with a spoon.
- Use good broth: A high-quality broth or homemade stock tends to be clearer with deep flavor.
- Add herbs late: Add parsley and herbs toward the end to keep the broth looking fresh and clear.
- Don’t stir too much: Stir gently to avoid breaking up ingredients and making broth murky.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – you’ll need a roomy pot to simmer the soup and cook noodles comfortably.
- Sharp knife – chopping veggies evenly makes cooking quicker and easier.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace tidy and safe while prepping ingredients.
- Slotted spoon – helpful for removing foam or skimming fat from the broth.
- Ladle – perfect for serving hot soup into bowls without spills.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add fresh ginger and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, zingy twist that lifts the broth.
- Swap egg noodles for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- Toss in spinach or kale near the end for extra greens and nutrition.
- Stir in cooked mushrooms or corn for different textures and added sweetness.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2-3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a warm, comforting bowl ready in about 35 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Vegetables:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften a bit and smell wonderful.
2. Adding Flavor:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and parsley. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until you can smell the herbs and garlic filling the kitchen.
3. Building the Soup Base:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and add the bay leaf if you’re using one. Bring everything up to a boil, then lower the heat so it simmers gently. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the flavors come together.
4. Adding Chicken and Noodles:
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and egg noodles. Keep cooking for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy—check your noodle package for exact timing.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Taste the broth and add salt and black pepper if you think it needs more seasoning. For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top just before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. It’s perfect on its own or paired with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding and adding to the soup. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep noodles from becoming mushy, you can cook them separately and add them in when reheating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water helps loosen the soup if it thickened overnight.
What Are Good Substitutes for Egg Noodles?
If you want gluten-free or different textures, try rice noodles, spiralized vegetables (like zucchini noodles), or small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.