Introduction to Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of a bowl of easy homemade chicken noodle soup. When the weather turns chilly or you're feeling under the weather, this dish is a go-to for many families. But why bother making it yourself when canned versions are available?
Why make homemade chicken noodle soup?
Making your own chicken noodle soup is not just about flavor (though that's a big part of it!). Homemade soup allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring the best quality and freshness. You can use organic vegetables, low-sodium broth, and fresh herbs, creating a healthier option than store-bought varieties. Plus, there's something incredibly satisfying about making your own meals from scratch.
You may even find that this recipe brings back nostalgic memories—perhaps of your grandmother stirring a pot on the stove. With just a few easy steps and ingredients, you can recreate that comforting experience in your own kitchen. According to the American Heart Association, homemade soups can provide heart-healthy nutrients, making this a delightful and nutritious choice.
So grab your pot and get ready to whip up a delightful batch of easy homemade chicken noodle soup in just 30 minutes! Your taste buds and your well-being will thank you.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Creating a delicious pot of easy homemade chicken noodle soup doesn't require a treasure hunt for hard-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies.
- Carrots and Celery: These classic aromatics are vital for flavor.
- Onion: A medium sweet Vidalia or yellow onion works best.
- Garlic: Adds a fragrant touch.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium varieties keep it wholesome.
- Seasonings: Including bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and pepper to elevate the taste.
- Noodles: Wide egg noodles or your favorite pasta.
- Shredded Cooked Chicken: Grab a rotisserie chicken for ease!
- Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish right before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Lemon Juice: A splash can add a refreshing zing.
- Additional Veggies: Feel free to sneak in peas or corn.
- Seasonal Herbs: Such as dill or basil for a unique twist.
With this list in hand, you’ll be well on your way to whipping up a bowl of comfort in no time. Want to explore more on the benefits of homemade soup? Check out this nutrition guide for some handy insights!
Preparing Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Making an easy homemade chicken noodle soup is one of those comforting kitchen adventures that provides warmth and nourishment, especially on a chilly day. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delicious bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a mug. Let’s dive into the process!
Sauté the vegetables
Start your easy homemade chicken noodle soup by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in 1 cup of sliced carrots, 1 cup of sliced celery, and 1 cup of diced onion. Sauté these veggies for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften. The fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely tickle your taste buds! After that, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This step builds a robust flavor base for your soup, making it irresistibly aromatic.
Add the broth and seasonings
Next, it's time to introduce the heart of your soup—64 ounces (that’s 8 cups!) of low-sodium chicken broth. To this, add 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried), along with ½ teaspoon of dried oregano. Season it with a teaspoon of pepper and bring it to a gentle boil. Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender. If you prefer a brothier soup, feel free to add more broth or even a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.
Incorporate the noodles
Once your broth is bubbling, it’s time to add a comforting 12 ounces of wide egg noodles to the pot. Boil them for around 10 minutes until they’re soft and cooked through. If it seems to be getting a bit too thick for your liking, just add a little more liquid; it’s all about finding that perfect balance!
Finish with chicken and parsley
Now, let’s amp up the heartiness of your soup—add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken (like a store-bought rotisserie chicken for speed). Don’t forget to add 3 to 4 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. If you love a hint of brightness, a tablespoon of lemon juice is a great addition here, too.
Adjust seasoning and serve
Finally, give your soup a taste test and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle your creation into bowls and enjoy this comforting dish that brings both nourishment and nostalgia.
Keen to try more variations? Consider adding your favorite veggies or spices to make this soup your own!
Variations on Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Crafting your easy homemade chicken noodle soup can be as creative as you want! Here are a couple of delightful variations to explore:
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
For a rich twist, transform your classic soup into a creamy version. After boiling the noodles, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half. This indulgent addition brings a silky texture and luscious flavor that’s sure to warm any chilly evening. Season with a sprinkle of nutmeg or paprika for an extra touch of cozy.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Noodle Soup
Feeling adventurous? Give your soup an Asian flair. Swap out egg noodles for rice noodles and add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil. Incorporate fresh ginger and green onions, and finish with a handful of bok choy or mushrooms. This fusion creates a lovely, aromatic bowl that's both comforting and energizing.
Explore these variations to find your favorite take on this beloved dish!
Cooking Tips for Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Best Practices for Broth
To elevate your easy homemade chicken noodle soup, start with a quality low-sodium chicken broth. This gives you control over the saltiness and allows your fresh ingredients to shine. For richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving—it brightens up the dish beautifully. Also, if you're after a brothier soup, don’t hesitate to adjust the liquid levels by adding more broth or even water as you cook.
Tips for Noodle Cooking
When cooking noodles, it's best to add them towards the end of the cooking process. This prevents overcooking and ensures they stay al dente. In this recipe, cook them just until tender; they'll continue absorbing liquid even after the soup is off the heat. If your soup looks a little less soupy the next day, simply stir in a bit more broth or water to restore that comforting texture.
For more tips on crafting the perfect soup, check out this guide from the Food Network on making flavorful broths and enhancing your soup recipes!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Ideal Pairings for Soup
To elevate your easy homemade chicken noodle soup, consider pairing it with a crusty baguette or warm, buttery dinner rolls for dipping. A fresh side salad with light vinaigrette will also balance the richness of the soup. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, or even some spicy hot sauce for an extra kick!
Perfect Bowls and Utensils
Serving this soup in deep, hearty bowls not only enhances the presentation but also keeps it warm longer. Opt for wooden spoons for stirring or ladling; they add a rustic touch and feel great in hand. Don’t forget bread plates for those delectable rolls—you'll want to savor every single drop of that flavorful broth!
Time Breakdown for Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Preparation Time
Spend about 5 minutes chopping your veggies and gathering ingredients. This quick prep sets you up for a smooth cooking experience.
Cooking Time
The actual cooking takes about 30 minutes. You'll enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen as your soup simmers to perfection.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a comforting bowl of easy homemade chicken noodle soup ready to serve! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Nutritional Facts for Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
If you're wondering about the nutritional benefits of this easy homemade chicken noodle soup, here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calories: Each serving contains approximately 412 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy option.
- Protein: Packed with around 27g of protein, it’s great for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Sodium: Keeping it to 168mg per serving, this recipe is a low-sodium choice, perfect for those monitoring their salt intake.
This comforting dish not only warms your belly but also provides essential nutrients to fuel your busy lifestyle. Enjoy guilt-free!
FAQs about Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I use frozen veggies for the soup?
Absolutely! Using frozen vegetables can save time and still provide great flavor and nutrients. Just toss them in with the other ingredients, and they'll thaw and cook perfectly during the soup-making process.
How do I store leftover chicken noodle soup?
Storing your easy homemade chicken noodle soup is simple. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 to 7 days. If you want to save it for longer, it freezes well for up to 4 months. Just remember that the noodles tend to absorb broth as they sit, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating for a nice soupy finish.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Of course! While wide egg noodles are traditional, feel free to swap in whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, and enjoy your personalized twist on this classic dish! For inspiration on noodle varieties, check out Smitten Kitchen's guide, which offers fantastic suggestions and recipes.
Conclusion on Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of easy homemade chicken noodle soup that warms the heart and soul. With minimal prep and a delightful blend of flavors, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and make memories over this comforting dish!
Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
- Large Dutch Oven
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup carrots peeled and sliced thin (about 1 ½ large carrots)
- 1 cup celery sliced thin (about 2 stalks)
- 1 cup sweet Vidalia or yellow onion peeled and diced small (about 1 medium onion)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Broth and Seasonings
- 64 ounces low-sodium chicken broth (plus more if desired)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon pepper or to taste
Noodles and Chicken
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles (or your favorite noodles or pasta)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use store bought rotisserie chicken to save time; or use other leftover chicken or cook your own chicken)
Garnishes
- 3 to 4 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- To a large Dutch oven or stockpot, add the oil and heat over medium-high heat to warm.
- Add the carrots, celery, onion, and sauté for about 7 minutes, or until vegetables begin to soften. Stir intermittently. Add the garlic and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, pepper, and bring to a boil. Allow mixture to boil gently for about 5 minutes or until vegetables are fork-tender. If you like brothier soup, add additional broth.
- Add the egg noodles and boil mixture for about 10 minutes, or until noodles are soft and cooked through. If the overall liquid level is lower than desired, adding a cup or two of water is okay.
- Add the chicken, parsley, optional lemon juice, and boil 1 to 2 minutes, or until chicken is warmed through. Adjust the salt and seasoning as needed, remove the bay leaves, and serve immediately.
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