A warm, comforting chicken noodle soup that brings together tender vegetables, juicy chicken, soft noodles, and a rich homemade broth. This classic soup is the perfect cozy meal for cold evenings, sick days, or whenever you crave something soothing and nostalgic.
Few dishes feel as healing and heartwarming as a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. This recipe captures everything you love about the classic version: flavorful broth, soft noodles that soak up all the goodness, and vegetables simmered until perfectly tender. It’s simple, nourishing, and tastes exactly like the soup grandmothers have been making for generations. Whether you want comfort food or an easy family dinner, this soup is always a winner.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup
This recipe is comforting, easy, and beautifully flavorful. The broth becomes rich and aromatic as the chicken simmers with vegetables. Wide egg noodles add just the right amount of tenderness, and the soup can be customized however you love it. It’s a one-pot meal that tastes like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups wide egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: bay leaf, lemon juice, or fresh herbs
Instructions – Step by Step
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until they begin to soften and smell fragrant.
Step 2: Add the garlic and seasonings
Stir in the garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Let everything cook for another minute to release the aroma.
Step 3: Pour in the broth
Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add the chicken
Stir in the shredded or diced cooked chicken. Reduce to a simmer and let the flavors blend.
Step 5: Cook the noodles
Add the egg noodles and cook until soft and tender.
Step 6: Taste and adjust
Check for salt, pepper, or extra herbs. Add a splash of lemon juice if you want extra brightness.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
Cook the noodles directly in the broth for extra flavor. Use homemade or high-quality broth for a richer, cozier soup. Add fresh parsley or dill at the end for a bright finish.
Variations
Add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes for more heartiness. Swap the chicken for turkey after holidays. Use homemade noodles if you want a thicker, rustic texture.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezing, cook the soup without the noodles and add them fresh when reheating so they don’t get mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm bread, biscuits, crackers, or a simple side salad. A squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a perfect finishing touch.
FAQS (Included Inside the Recipe)
What kind of noodles work best?
Wide egg noodles are perfect because they hold their texture and soak up the broth beautifully. Small pasta shapes like ditalini also work well. Avoid very thin pasta like vermicelli, which can become too soft.
Can I use raw chicken?
Yes — simmer raw chicken breasts or thighs directly in the broth, then shred them before adding the noodles.
How do I keep the noodles from getting soggy?
For the best texture, cook the noodles only until soft. If storing long-term, cook the noodles separately and add them fresh when serving.
Conclusion
This chicken noodle soup is everything a comforting bowl should be — warm, wholesome, and full of nostalgic flavor. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, always delicious, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste. Once you make this homemade version, it will become your go-to recipe every time you crave a cozy and satisfying meal.