Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup? Look no further! This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious and healthy soup perfect for a chilly evening or when you're feeling under the weather. This classic recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and can be easily customized to your taste.
Ingredients for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
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For the Chicken Broth:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 12 cups water
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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For the Soup:
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
1. Prepare the Chicken Broth:
- Rinse the chicken thoroughly and place it in a large stockpot. Add the water, carrots, celery, onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds. For even richer flavor, simmer for 2-3 hours.
2. Shred the Chicken:
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
3. Strain the Broth:
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, discarding the solids. This step ensures a clear and flavorful broth.
4. Assemble the Soup:
- Return the strained broth to the stockpot. Add the sliced carrots and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, until tender but not mushy.
- Stir in the shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting classic!
Tips and Variations for Your Chicken Noodle Soup
- For a richer broth: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. The skin adds extra flavor and richness to the broth.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different noodles: Experiment with different types of pasta, such as ditalini, orzo, or even wide egg noodles.
- Make it a slow cooker recipe: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients (except noodles) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious and easy-to-make dish! Remember to share your culinary creations using the hashtag #HomemadeChickenNoodleSoup. We’d love to see your versions!
