Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a clear, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want something warm and easy to make.
I like to add extra vegetables or herbs—I always find a way to make it just a little bit more special. Sometimes I sneak in a pinch of soy sauce for a tiny twist!
If you have leftover cooked chicken, toss it in at the end to save time. It’s a quick way to enjoy a tasty soup without much fuss.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs stay juicier and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked. A friendly swap is turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
Egg Noodles: These are the classic choice, but you can also use ramen or rice noodles. I like to cook them just al dente to prevent mushiness. Whole wheat noodles add extra fiber if you prefer a healthier twist.
Broth: Use chicken broth for a rich flavor. I recommend low-sodium broth so you can control the salt. Vegetable broth works well for a lighter taste or vegetarian version, and homemade broth adds a personal touch.
Carrots & Celery: These veggies give the soup a fresh crunch and sweetness. Look for crisp, firm produce. If you don’t have celery, try turnip or fennel for a different twist.
Garlic & Onion: These aromatics build the base flavor. Use fresh garlic and onions for the best taste, but garlic powder and onion powder work well in a pinch. Sauté until fragrant for maximum flavor.
How do I prevent overcooked chicken in soup?
Cook chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center. For breasts, about 10-12 minutes; for thighs, around 15-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F. Remove the chicken once cooked to avoid drying it out.
- Start with cold broth and gently simmer; boiling can make the chicken tough.
- Use tongs to transfer cooked chicken to a plate, then shred or chop.
- If unsure, cut into the thickest part to check doneness—no pink means it’s ready.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes.
Cook time: 20 minutes.
Total time: 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally.
2. Add garlic and broth
Stir in minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Cook the noodles and chicken
Add egg noodles and cooked chicken to the boiling broth. Reduce heat. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until noodles are tender.
4. Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper. Stir well. Ladle into bowls. Enjoy your comforting chicken noodle soup!
