Chicken Noodle Soup
Introduction
Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food cherished for its soothing warmth and nourishing simplicity. Known for its restorative qualities, this classic soup is often enjoyed during colder months or when feeling under the weather. Made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, aromatic herbs, and comforting noodles, it is both wholesome and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients Quantity
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 carrots, peeled and diced
2 ribs celery, diced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (plus more for garnish)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1–3 teaspoons salt, divided
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 cups chicken broth
6 ounces egg noodles
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Dice the onion, mince the garlic, peel and dice the carrots, dice the celery, and mince the fresh parsley. Set the parsley aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, add olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat for about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Add Aromatics and Herbs
Add the minced garlic, dried basil, dried thyme, bay leaf, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir and cook for an additional 5 minutes until fragrant.
Simmer the Soup
Place the chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, ensuring the soup continues to gently bubble.
Shred the Chicken
After one hour, remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Finish the Soup
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Taste the broth and season with additional salt as needed.
Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the pot and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until tender.
Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh parsley and serve hot.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chicken Noodle Soup has roots in many cultures worldwide, from European broths to Jewish “penicillin” traditions. In American households, it is a symbol of care, comfort, and healing—often prepared for loved ones during illness or shared at family meals.
Description
This Chicken Noodle Soup is light yet hearty, featuring a clear, flavorful broth filled with tender shredded chicken, soft egg noodles, and perfectly cooked vegetables. The gentle herbs enhance the natural flavors, creating a soothing and satisfying bowl of comfort.
Optional Additions
Add fresh lemon juice for brightness
Include peas or corn for added sweetness
Use fresh dill or rosemary for herb variation
Substitute rice or whole-grain pasta for noodles
Tips for Success
Keep the soup gently simmering to ensure tender, shreddable chicken
Season gradually to avoid over-salting
Cook noodles separately if storing leftovers to prevent sogginess
Use homemade broth for deeper flavor
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 260–300 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Sodium: 650 mg
(Values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.)
Conclusion
Chicken Noodle Soup remains a beloved classic for its simplicity, nourishment, and emotional warmth. It’s a reliable recipe that brings comfort to the table every time.
Recommendation
Serve this soup with crusty bread or simple crackers for a complete meal. It also freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep or quick comfort on busy days.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This soup exemplifies healthful indulgence—rich in protein, vegetables, and hydrating broth while remaining light and balanced. Enjoying homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a reminder that comfort food can be both nourishing and restorative.
If you’d like, I can:
Adapt this for a slow cooker or Instant Pot
Create a low-sodium or gluten-free version
Rewrite it for a cookbook or blog format
