“My mom used to make this, and it was always so good. I’m grateful to have found it again—the name definitely lived up to its promise when I made it last night!”

My mom used to make a dish called "Classic Chicken Noodle Soup." It filled our home with warmth and joy every time she cooked it. The chicken was tender, the noodles were just right, and the broth was deliciously comforting. I’m grateful to have found this recipe again—the name definitely lived up to its promise when I made it last night! Each spoonful brought back fond memories of my childhood, reminding me of my mother’s love and care.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and hearty meal, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for you. The simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful broth that warms your soul. It’s an easy recipe that anyone can make, regardless of cooking skill. It’s great for staying cozy on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather. Plus, the smell that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply delightful!

How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle
• Soup bowls

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by rinsing the whole chicken under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

4. Cook the Chicken: Add the whole chicken to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

6. Remove the Chicken: Carefully take the chicken out of the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes, then shred the meat from the bones. Discard the skin and bones.

7. Add the Noodles: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Bring the broth back to a gentle boil and add the egg noodles. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-8 minutes.

8. Finish the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your heartwarming Classic Chicken Noodle Soup!

How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is best served hot. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. For a lighter meal, it can also be served with a fresh salad on the side. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add an extra kick if you prefer a bit of heat.

Storage & Freezing: Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up on the stove or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with:

• A gourmet grilled cheese sandwich
• Freshly baked biscuits
• Side of steamed green beans
• A light garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette

Variations

There are many ways to switch up this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn for extra nutrition.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just add it when you would normally add the shredded chicken.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the noodles.
• Low-Sodium Options: Use low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer to reduce salt in your diet.

FAQs

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
   Yes, you can easily substitute turkey for chicken in this recipe. It’s a great way to use leftover turkey after holidays.

2. What can I do if I don’t have egg noodles?
   You can use any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or macaroni. Just keep an eye on cooking times.

3. Is it necessary to skin the chicken?
   While it’s not necessary, removing the skin can help reduce fat in the soup. It also makes shredding the chicken easier later on.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! You can put all the ingredients in a slow cooker, setting it on low for 6-8 hours, depending on the size of the chicken.

Make-Ahead Tips for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

If you’re planning to make this soup ahead of time, you can prepare the broth and vegetables the day before. Just store them separately from the noodles and shredded chicken. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just heat the broth, add the chicken and noodles, and cook until the noodles are tender. This saves time and keeps the noodles from getting overly soft if they sit in the broth too long.

In conclusion, Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that reminds us of home and comfort. Making this dish can bring cherished memories back to life while creating new ones. Enjoy making and serving this delicious soup; it will surely become a favorite in your home!

Print