Description
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, this classic recipe is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days, colds, or simply when you crave something cozy. Simple to prepare and made with wholesome ingredients, this soup is a family favorite that never goes out of style.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Families looking for a hearty, nourishing dinner.
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Anyone feeling under the weather and in need of comfort food.
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Meal preppers who want a make-ahead soup that reheats beautifully.
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Beginners who want an easy, foolproof recipe that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.
Why it’s Great
✅ Classic comfort food – warms you from the inside out.
✅ Nutritious & filling – protein-rich chicken, fresh veggies, and wholesome noodles.
✅ Easy to make – no complicated steps, perfect for home cooks.
✅ Budget-friendly – made with simple pantry staples.
✅ Freezer-friendly – store for quick meals on busy days.
Ingredients
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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8 cups chicken broth
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2 cups water
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2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 bay leaf
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp dried parsley
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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2 cups egg noodles
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1–2 Tbsp oil (for cooking)
Instructions
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Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
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Add broth & seasonings: Pour in chicken broth and water. Add bay leaf, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Return chicken to the pot and simmer for 20 minutes to develop flavor.
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Prepare noodles: Cook egg noodles separately according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Finish soup: Remove chicken, shred or chop into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot. Simmer an additional 10 minutes until fully cooked.
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Combine: Discard the bay leaf. Stir in the cooked noodles and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra parsley if desired, and enjoy hot.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
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Cutting board & sharp knife
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Measuring cups & spoons
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Ladle
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
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Freezer: Freeze without noodles for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating for best texture.
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Meal Prep Tip: Keep noodles and soup stored separately to prevent sogginess.
FAQ
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes! Shred cooked rotisserie chicken and add it during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
2. Do I need to cook the noodles separately?
It’s recommended to cook them separately to avoid mushy noodles, especially if storing leftovers.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Add all ingredients (except noodles) to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours. Add cooked noodles before serving.
4. What can I add for extra flavor?
Fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, or thyme give the soup an aromatic boost. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving also brightens the flavor.
Conclusion
This homemade chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, nourishing, and full of flavor. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, feeding the family, or just want a cozy meal, this classic soup always delivers. Make a big batch, store the leftovers, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort any time you need it.
