Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, known for its rich broth, tender chunks of chicken, soft vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles. Whether you’re under the weather or just craving something warm and satisfying, this timeless soup is always a welcome dish at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup delivers comfort in every spoonful. It’s made from simple ingredients and can be ready in under an hour. Full of flavor from aromatics, herbs, and slowly simmered chicken, this dish is nourishing, satisfying, and perfect for batch cooking.

• Classic comfort food

• Simple, wholesome ingredients

• One-pot meal

• Customizable with different vegetables or noodles

• Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Olive oil

• Yellow onion, diced

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Carrots, sliced

• Celery stalks, sliced

• Chicken broth or stock

• Egg noodles (or any preferred type)

• Bay leaf

• Dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

2. Add chicken breasts (or thighs), chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

4. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

5. Add egg noodles and cook for another 7–10 minutes, or until noodles are tender.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Remove bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Rotisserie Shortcut: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.

• Gluten-Free: Swap egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.

• Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles or omit noodles entirely.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and add chickpeas or white beans instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If making in advance, consider storing the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming soggy. The soup can also be frozen (without noodles) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for more flavor?

Yes, bone-in chicken adds more depth. Just remember to remove the bones before serving.

What’s the best noodle for chicken soup?

Egg noodles are traditional, but any pasta shape like rotini or orzo works well.

Can I use canned chicken?

While not ideal, canned chicken can be used in a pinch for a quicker version.

How can I make this soup creamy?

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit of roux at the end for a creamier consistency.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but freeze it without the noodles. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except noodles to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add noodles in the last 30 minutes.

What herbs go well with chicken noodle soup?

Thyme, bay leaf, parsley, and rosemary are classic options.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes, diced potatoes can be added for more heartiness.

What’s the best broth to use?

Homemade chicken stock provides the richest flavor, but store-bought low-sodium broth is a convenient alternative.

How do I keep noodles from getting mushy?

Cook noodles separately and add them to individual servings to keep them firm.

Conclusion

Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a meal — it’s nourishment for the body and soul. Simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always satisfying, it’s the kind of dish that brings comfort with every bite. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a make-ahead freezer meal, this timeless soup will always have a place in your kitchen.

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