Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. This hearty, flavorful soup is packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or simply craving something soothing, this classic recipe is the perfect solution.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Add the chicken and noodles: Stir in the shredded chicken, egg noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables: You can include additional vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes to make the soup heartier.
• Use different noodles: Swap out egg noodles for other pasta varieties such as fusilli, bowtie, or whole-wheat pasta.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herb alternatives: If you don’t have dried thyme, you can use other herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to flavor the soup.
• Low-sodium option: Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall salt content in the soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat. If the noodles have absorbed too much broth, you may need to add a little more chicken broth or water to restore the soup’s consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe and will add extra flavor to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, sauté the vegetables and then add them, along with the broth, chicken, noodles, and seasonings, to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the noodles in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Noodle Soup?
   Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, keep in mind that the noodles may become softer once frozen and reheated.
4. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
   Yes, you can cook fresh chicken directly in the soup. Simply add it to the broth, shred it after cooking, and continue with the recipe.
5. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, any type of pasta will work, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of pasta you choose.
6. How can I make this soup richer?
   You can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup for a creamier, more indulgent texture.
7. What if I don’t have egg noodles?
   You can substitute with other types of noodles, such as macaroni or even rice for a gluten-free version.
8. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Simply use gluten-free pasta in place of the egg noodles, and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.
9. Can I add spices for extra flavor?
   Yes, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bay leaf can add depth to the flavor profile.
10. How do I know when the soup is done?
    The soup is done when the noodles are tender and the flavors have melded together. If you’re using fresh chicken, ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded before serving.

Conclusion

This Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm, satisfying dish that can be made quickly with just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re nursing a cold, need a comforting meal, or simply want something quick and wholesome. The rich, flavorful broth, combined with tender chicken and noodles, is sure to please the whole family. Keep this recipe in your collection for a go-to comfort food that never disappoints.

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