Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup? This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for even the busiest cooks. Let's dive into this classic recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields about 6 servings of delicious chicken noodle soup. Adjust the quantities as needed depending on how much you want to make.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Offers a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes a slightly bitter yet refreshing flavor. This is a classic mirepoix combination!
- 8 cups chicken broth: The base of our soup, choose low sodium if you prefer to control salt levels.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Pre-cooked chicken makes this recipe a breeze. Leftover roast chicken works perfectly!
- 1 cup egg noodles: These cook quickly and absorb the broth's flavor beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note. Fresh thyme works wonderfully too!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Easy Steps to Deliciousness:
This recipe is incredibly simple and straightforward. Even beginner cooks can master it!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and slightly tender.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
- Add the shredded chicken.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the soup.
- Continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through but still have a slight bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end.
- Boost the protein: Add cooked diced chicken or turkey meatballs.
This easy chicken noodle soup recipe is a surefire way to warm your heart and soul. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your preferences. So grab your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy!
