When the chill in the air nudges you to seek comfort, few things warm the soul like a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. This timeless classic, brimming with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and fragrant herbs, offers more than just nourishment-it wraps you in a gentle embrace of familiarity and ease. Whether you’re nursing a cold, craving a taste of home, or simply looking for a simple, satisfying meal, this easy homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe invites you to cozy up and savor a little piece of comfort in every spoonful.
Cozy up with this easy homestyle chicken noodle soup that promises warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Rooted in family traditions and crafted with simple, soulful ingredients, this cherished recipe invites you to savor rich, aromatic broth infused with fresh herbs, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles. Whether you’re battling a chilly evening or craving a nostalgic meal, this soup offers a delightful embrace of flavors and textures that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Yield
Serves 6 hearty bowls
Difficulty Level
Easy – perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs),</b cleaned and trimmed
- 12 cups</b cold water
- 3 large carrots,</b peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks,</b chopped
- 1 large yellow onion,</b quartered
- 4 garlic cloves,</b smashed
- 2 bay leaves</b
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns</b
- Salt,</b to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles</b (or your favourite noodle)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley,</b chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves</b (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil</b or unsalted butter
Step by Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Broth
- Place the whole chicken</b in a large stockpot and cover with 12 cups of cold water. Starting with cold water allows the flavors and collagen to release gently, producing a rich broth.
- Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt to the pot.
- bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling,reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 35-40 minutes,skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the top to keep the broth clear and clean-tasting.
- Remove the chicken carefully and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool slightly before shredding the meat off the bones. Discard the bones and skin or save for another use (like homemade bone broth).
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot to remove the vegetables and aromatics for a smooth and flavorful liquid base.
Adding Fresh Noodles and vegetables
- Return the strained broth</b to the stovetop and bring it back to a gentle boil.
- Add the egg noodles</b and cook according to package instructions until tender but firm, about 6-8 minutes.
- Meanwhile,in a separate pan,heat olive oil</b or butter; sauté extra diced carrots and celery until just tender to add freshness and texture.
- Once the noodles are nearly cooked, stir in the shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. Simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to marry the flavors together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as desired.
Tips for Adding Personal Flair and Fresh Flavors
- Swap fresh herbs: Try tarragon or dill for a delicate twist that brightens the broth.
- Add a splash of acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar at the end enhances depth.
- Boost umami: Stir in a spoonful of miso paste or soy sauce for subtle richness without overpowering.
- Use homemade noodles: Freshly made egg noodles or gluten-free options elevate the experience.
- Incorporate root vegetables: Parsnips or turnips can offer natural sweetness and earthiness.
Serving Suggestions to Complement Your Cozy Meal
pour the steaming chicken noodle soup into deep bowls,garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a vibrant burst of color and flavor. Serve alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic butter toast for dipping. For an extra comforting touch, a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese makes a gourmet-worthy finish. Pair the soup with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the meal.
Chef’s Notes
- Make ahead: Prepare the broth and shred the chicken a day in advance for a quicker assembly.
- Storage: Keep soup refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the noodles.
- Dairy-free: Use olive oil rather of butter without compromising flavor.
- Gluten-free: Substitute traditional noodles with rice noodles or spiralized vegetables.
- Boost protein: Add chopped cooked turkey or white beans for a heartier bowl.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 9g |
For even more comforting recipes, check out our Hearty Winter Soups collection. To learn about the nutritional benefits of homemade broth, visit the Healthline article on chicken broth.
Q&A
Q&A: Cozy Up with This Easy Homestyle Chicken noodle Soup
Q: What makes this chicken noodle soup recipe “homestyle”?
A: This recipe captures the warmth and simplicity of comforting homemade meals. It uses familiar, wholesome ingredients and straightforward techniques that remind you of a classic kitchen-cooked soup, just like grandma used to make.Q: Is this soup difficult to prepare for busy weeknights?
A: Not at all! The recipe is designed to be easy and approachable. With minimal prep and common pantry staples, you can have a hearty pot of soup simmering in no time, perfect for those hectic days when you crave something nourishing without the hassle.
Q: What ingredients are essential for that cozy, flavorful broth?
A: The key players include fragrant onions, garlic, carrots, celery, tender chicken, and fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaves. Slow simmering these with chicken broth ensures a rich and savory base that’s both soothing and satisfying.Q: Can I customize this soup to suit different dietary needs?
A: Absolutely! You can swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables. for a lighter version, opt for chicken breast rather of thighs, or skip the noodles and add extra vegetables to bulk it up.
Q: How can I make this soup even more comforting?
A: Serve it piping hot with crusty bread or buttery crackers on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and elevate that homestyle goodness.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes! This soup freezes beautifully, but it’s best to add the noodles fresh when reheating. Store the broth and chicken mixture separately, then cook the noodles right before serving to maintain their perfect texture.
Q: What occasions are ideal for serving this soup?
A: This chicken noodle soup is versatile – perfect for chilly evenings, a comforting meal when feeling under the weather, or anytime you want to bring a sense of warmth and goodwill to the table. It’s the ultimate cozy companion.
To wrap It Up
There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of homestyle chicken noodle soup-a simple, soothing meal that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. Whether you’re easing through a chilly evening or craving a taste of homemade goodness, this easy recipe is your go-to for slowing down and savoring the moment.So next time you need a cozy pick-me-up, remember: the heartiest comforts are frequently enough the simplest, served hot and made with a touch of care.
