When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes rival the timeless appeal of chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re facing a cold winter’s night or simply craving a warm, satisfying meal, this beloved soup has been a comforting presence in kitchens worldwide for generations. The beauty of chicken noodle soup lies in its simplicity, yet the flavors are anything but basic. It’s a medley of tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and soft noodles all swimming in a rich, savory broth. It’s the perfect remedy for the soul, offering warmth and nourishment with every spoonful.
For those who think making chicken noodle soup from scratch is a complicated endeavor, think again! This recipe is designed to bring you all the classic flavors of a homemade soup with minimal effort and time. With a few pantry staples and some quick prep work, you can enjoy a pot of this heartwarming soup in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet nourishing or when you’re feeling under the weather and crave some homemade goodness without the fuss.
Let’s dive into how you can create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients :
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
For a more flavorful soup, you can use a rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken. This adds depth to the soup and saves time in preparation. - 8 cups chicken broth
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake. Homemade chicken stock can be a fantastic alternative if you have it on hand. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
This healthy fat is used to sauté the vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors. - 4 celery stalks, chopped
Celery provides a nice crunch and pairs perfectly with carrots to form the base of most soups. - 4 whole carrots, chopped
The sweetness of carrots balances the savory flavors of the broth and chicken. - 1/2 onion, diced
Onions add a layer of depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile. - 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Thyme lends an earthy note that complements the chicken perfectly. - 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Garlic infuses the soup with a robust aroma and taste that elevates its overall flavor. - 1/2 teaspoon salt
Adjust to taste. Remember that different broths have varying levels of saltiness. - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
A dash of pepper adds warmth and a bit of spice. - 2 bay leaves
These aromatic leaves impart a subtle depth and complexity to the soup, making it more aromatic and flavorful. - 1 cup egg noodles
Egg noodles are the traditional choice for chicken noodle soup, providing a soft texture that complements the tender chicken and vegetables. - 2 cups water
Adding water helps balance the broth’s richness and ensures the soup isn’t overly salty.
Instructions :
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by heating a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm up. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped celery, carrots, and diced onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-8 minutes until they become tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot. The sautéing process brings out the sweetness of the carrots and onions, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour the chicken broth and water into the pot, giving the soup its body and depth. Add the dried thyme, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a rolling boil. This boiling process helps meld the flavors, allowing the thyme and garlic to infuse the broth beautifully. Let the soup boil for a few minutes to ensure the vegetables continue to cook, soaking up the aromatic herbs and spices.
3. Incorporate the Chicken
Once your broth is bubbling away, it’s time to add the shredded chicken. Use a spoon to stir the chicken into the pot, distributing it evenly throughout the soup. Allow the chicken to simmer in the broth for a couple of minutes. This will warm the chicken through and let it absorb the flavorful liquid surrounding it.
4. Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the boiling soup. Reduce the heat slightly to medium-high, letting the noodles cook for about 10 minutes or until they are tender yet firm to the bite. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pot. The egg noodles soak up the broth, becoming plump and flavorful, adding to the soup’s heartiness.
5. Final Touches
Once the noodles reach the desired tenderness, remove the bay leaves from the pot and discard them. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. This step ensures that every spoonful of soup bursts with balanced flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot, inviting soup into bowls, ensuring each serving is brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and those perfectly cooked noodles. Serve immediately for the best experience. Pair the soup with crusty bread, such as homemade Hawaiian rolls or garlic bread, to soak up the savory broth and add an extra element of satisfaction to your meal.
Conclusion :
With this quick and easy chicken noodle soup recipe, gone are the days of laboring over a stove for hours to achieve that perfect blend of flavors. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of comforting homemade goodness that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. This recipe uses common pantry staples like chicken broth, vegetables, and noodles, ensuring you can whip up this delicious dish without needing a long shopping list or exotic ingredients. The process is straightforward, making it accessible even to novice cooks or those pressed for time.
Imagine coming home after a long day and having a hot, nourishing meal ready in no time. The aroma of simmering chicken broth, mingling with the earthy scent of thyme and garlic, fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that promises comfort and warmth. This soup isn’t just a quick fix; it’s a heartfelt solution to the constant quest for convenient yet nutritious meals. Perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence or for a cozy weekend lunch that doesn’t monopolize your free time, this chicken noodle soup is versatile and reliable.
As you ladle the hot, steaming soup into bowls, each serving brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, you’ll see why this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. The satisfaction of knowing you’ve provided a healthy, homemade meal in such a short time is unparalleled. Enjoy the simplicity and delight of homemade goodness, and relish that you can achieve such wonderful flavors and comfort in just 20 minutes! This recipe not only meets the demands of your schedule but also exceeds the expectations of your taste buds and the nutritional needs of your loved ones. Serve this soup to your family and friends, and watch it become a cherished favorite, comforting everyone who takes a spoonful.
Author : Marie-claude
