Chicken Noodle Soup

 

Chicken Noodle Soup

A Classic Comfort Food That Warms You from the Inside Out

When it comes to timeless comfort food, nothing beats a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, battling a chilly day, or simply craving something cozy and nourishing, this soup is the answer.

Made with tender chicken, hearty noodles, aromatic herbs, and a medley of vegetables, chicken noodle soup isn’t just good—it’s good for you. Rich in nutrients and easy on the stomach, it’s a go-to remedy for colds, stress, and long days alike.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make from scratch. No canned versions can compare to the depth of flavor and love that goes into a homemade batch.

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🥕 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍗 Made from real, whole ingredients

• ⏱️ Easy to prepare in under an hour

• 🧄 Naturally healing and gentle on digestion

• 💛 Perfect for make-ahead meals or freezing

• 🥣 Kid-friendly and adult-approved

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📝 Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped; rotisserie works well)

• 2 cups egg noodles (or pasta of choice)

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for brightness

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add Broth and Herbs

Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.

3. Add Noodles and Chicken

Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 7–10 minutes). Add the cooked chicken in the last 3–5 minutes, just to heat through without overcooking.

4. Taste and Adjust

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread, crackers, or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort combo.

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🥄 Tips & Variations

• No cooked chicken? Simmer raw chicken breasts in the broth for 20–25 minutes, then shred and return to the pot.

• Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy twist.

• Gluten-free? Swap egg noodles for rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta.

• Add greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for a boost of color and nutrition.

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🧊 Storing & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Tip: Cook noodles separately if freezing, as they can get mushy when reheated.

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Final Thoughts

Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just food—it's a hug in a bowl. Nourishing, soothing, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the kind of dish every home cook should have in their back pocket.

Whether you're making it for your family, a sick friend, or yourself after a long day, this classic soup delivers pure comfort—one spoonful at a time.