Description
This classic homemade chicken noodle soup is warm, comforting, and packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra comfort, this soup is easy to make and always a family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) chicken broth
- 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 150 g (2 cups) egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
🍲 Making the Soup:
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Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
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Add Broth and Chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in the broth.
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Simmer:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (75°C / 165°F internal temperature).
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Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
🍜 Cook the Noodles:
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Add the Noodles:
- Bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (6-8 minutes) until tender.
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Final Touches:
- Stir in fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if using.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
- Top with extra fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- Storage: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing Tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, cook the noodles separately and add them when serving to avoid them getting mushy.