Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Name: Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 8 ounces egg noodles; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with the ultimate comfort food: this Best Chicken Noodle Soup recipe! Packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, this recipe is perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting bowl of goodness. It's simple to make and sure to become a family favorite!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-31T14:19:15.024Z

This is my go-to recipe for chicken noodle soup, handed down through generations!

The Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Making chicken noodle soup at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring you don't include any preservatives or artificial flavors. This recipe is crafted with fresh vegetables and wholesome chicken, which are not only nutritious but also incredibly comforting. The fragrant aroma of the broth simmering on your stovetop will fill your home with warmth, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Additionally, chicken noodle soup is known for its health benefits. It can help soothe a cold or flu with its warm broth, making it a go-to dish when someone in the family is feeling under the weather. Packed with vitamins from the vegetables and protein from the chicken, this soup provides nourishment and a boost to your immune system.

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

To elevate the flavor of your chicken noodle soup, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of soy sauce right before serving. These ingredients can brighten the dish and enhance the overall taste. If you love a bit of heat, feel free to throw in some red pepper flakes while simmering the broth to give it an extra kick.

Another tip is to use chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer a richer flavor. Thighs have a bit more fat, which contributes to the soup's depth. Also, you can customize your broth by making it from scratch using leftover chicken bones and aromatic vegetables, which will add layers of flavor to your soup.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Noodle Soup

If you have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, are often the best part!), you can easily store your chicken noodle soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. To preserve the texture of the noodles, consider storing the noodles separately from the broth if you plan to keep it for longer.

When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, especially if it has thickened in the fridge. Never microwave it without stirring, as it can heat unevenly and create hot spots.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
8 ounces egg noodles
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Cook the Chicken

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Place the chicken breasts into the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir in thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

Add Noodles

Remove the chicken and shred it, then add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until noodles are tender.

Combine and Serve

Return shredded chicken to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade chicken noodle soup with a side of crusty bread or buttered rolls for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad can also complement the warmth and heartiness of the soup beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an Italian twist.

For those who enjoy a burst of flavor, consider adding a dollop of pesto or a drizzle of good olive oil on each bowl just before serving. This little extra touch can make a significant difference and elevate your soup to gourmet status.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

While the classic version of chicken noodle soup is delightful, it’s also versatile. You can switch things up by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added color and nutrition. For a southwestern flair, try incorporating black beans and corn along with some diced green chilies.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute whole grain or gluten-free noodles. Zoodles, or zucchini noodles, can be a great alternative as well, transforming your soup into a low-carb option that's packed with flavor and veggies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken will save time and add extra flavor.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months.