This warm and cozy chicken noodle soup is like a hug in a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and fresh veggies, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Whenever I’m feeling under the weather or need a pick-me-up, this soup works wonders. Plus, it reminds me of Grandma’s kitchen, where love is the secret ingredient! 🥣❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is best for flavor, but low-sodium store-bought can work too. If you need a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute!
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken because it saves time. If you’re in a hurry, leftover chicken or even turkey works great too!
Carrots: Fresh carrots add a nice sweetness. If you have frozen carrots, they can be a convenient substitute. Just add them a bit later in cooking.
Egg Noodles: These are traditional, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times based on the type you choose!
Herbs: Dried parsley and thyme are classic choices, but feel free to swap with fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh basil or dill can also add a lovely twist!
How Do You Ensure Your Noodles Don’t Overcook?
Timing is key when cooking noodles in soup! Make sure to follow these simple steps:
- Cook the noodles in the broth, not beforehand. This allows them to soak up the flavor!
- Check the package for cooking time and set a timer to avoid mushiness.
- Add the noodles last, right before you’re about to serve. This keeps them al dente!
By monitoring closely, you’ll have perfectly cooked noodles that hold their shape and texture in the soup!
Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled chicken breast)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 celery stalks, sliced (optional)
- 1 small onion, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 3 cups egg noodles or wide egg pasta noodles
- 1 tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken noodle soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy option for a hearty meal. Total time is about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Base:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery (if you’re using it). Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it smells fragrant. This will create a tasty base for your soup!
2. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. This will warm up the broth and start the wonderful flavors to develop.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the sliced carrots, dried parsley, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Let this mixture simmer on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the carrots are tender. They should be soft but still have a little bite!
4. Add the Noodles:
Now, it’s time for the noodles! Add the egg noodles to the simmering broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they’re tender and delicious. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking.
5. Stir in Chicken:
After the noodles are cooked, gently stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Let it warm through for about 3-5 minutes. This makes sure that everything is heated evenly and ready to serve!
6. Season and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning is key to bringing out all those lovely flavors!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with extra parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with some crunchy crackers or warm crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s not just delicious; it’s comforting!
This recipe yields a classic, comforting chicken noodle soup, loaded with tender chicken, savory noodles, and vibrant carrot slices in a warm, aromatic broth — just like Grandma used to make. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh chicken, you can add it to the pot in the beginning. Simply simmer it in the broth for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked, then shred it and continue with the recipe as directed.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain quality, be sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Freeze This Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Cool it completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles or need a gluten-free option, you can substitute them with whole wheat pasta, rice noodles, or even a lower-carb option like zucchini noodles. Just adjust the cooking time as needed so they don’t overcook!
