Growing up, Classic Chicken Noodle Soup was the ultimate comfort food in our household. Whenever I was feeling under the weather or just needed a hug in a bowl, my mom would whip up a big batch of her famous recipe. The aroma of simmering chicken, fragrant vegetables, and tender noodles would fill the entire house, instantly lifting my spirits.
I can still remember coming home from school on a chilly winter day, stomping the snow off my boots, and being greeted by the sight of steam rising from a steaming pot on the stove. Mom would ladle the piping hot Classic Chicken Noodle Soup into a big bowl, adding just the right amount of freshly cracked black pepper. As I took that first sip, the warmth would spread through my body, soothing my soul. It was like wrapping myself in a cozy blanket – the ultimate comfort food.
Over the years, I’ve tried countless variations of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup, but nothing quite compares to my mom’s recipe. There’s just something about the way she balances the flavors, simmers the broth to perfection, and adds that special touch of love. That’s why this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe has become my go-to, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Table of Contents
Why This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
What sets this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe apart is the attention to detail and the techniques that create a truly exceptional dish. From the way the chicken is simmered to extract maximum flavor, to the perfect balance of aromatic vegetables, this recipe is a masterclass in comfort food perfection. The secret lies in the slow, gentle cooking process that allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly, resulting in a soup that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Whole chicken: The foundation of this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. Look for a fresh, high-quality bird to ensure the best flavor.
– Carrots: Adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
– Celery: Providing a subtle crunch and essential aromatic flavor.
– Onion: The backbone of the soup, adding depth and richness.
– Garlic: For a warm, pungent aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
– Thyme: A classic herb that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
– Egg noodles: The perfect pasta choice to soak up the delicious broth.
– Salt and pepper: Seasoning to bring out the natural flavors.
Step-by-Step Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is simple to make, yet the results are nothing short of extraordinary. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a comforting, nourishing soup that will warm your soul. The total cooking time is around 2 hours, and the only equipment you’ll need is a large stockpot and a sharp knife.
1- Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for 45 minutes, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
2- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the simmering broth, and let the vegetables cook for 15 minutes, or until they’re tender.
3- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the vegetables and broth.
4- Bring the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup back to a simmer and add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5- Finally, add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
6- Ladle the piping hot Classic Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
– Be sure to use a whole chicken for the best flavor and richness in the broth.
– Simmer the chicken gently to avoid toughening the meat.
– Resist the urge to stir the soup too frequently, as this can break down the noodles.
– Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your personal preferences.
– For a heartier meal, serve the Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving and Storing Your Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfect Pairings for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a cozy, satisfying meal, serve it with a crisp, fresh green salad and a slice of warm, crusty bread. A glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea also make excellent pairings. This soup is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a comforting lunch on a chilly day.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe makes a large batch, so you’ll have plenty of leftovers to enjoy throughout the week. To store, simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened up too much.
For maximum convenience, you can also freeze this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop until piping hot.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Creative Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
While this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is already a standout, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a heartier version, try adding diced potatoes or a can of white beans. You can also switch up the herbs, using fresh rosemary or parsley instead of thyme. For a touch of spice, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Making Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe more diet-friendly, you can swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. For a low-carb version, skip the noodles altogether and serve the soup over cauliflower rice. If you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet, simply omit the chicken and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: While you can use chicken breasts, I highly recommend using a whole chicken for the best flavor and richness in the broth. The bones and skin add an incredible depth of flavor that you can’t quite replicate with just the meat.
Q: How long does the soup need to simmer?
A: The key to this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup is the long, slow simmering process. The chicken should simmer for about 45 minutes, and the vegetables should cook for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Q: Can I freeze the leftover soup?
A: Absolutely! This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup freezes beautifully. Once it’s cooled completely, you can portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, depending on the size of the portions. It’s a hearty, comforting soup, so a nice big bowl is the perfect meal.
Q: What should I do if the noodles get too soft?
A: If the noodles start to become overly soft or mushy, simply remove them from the soup and serve the broth and chicken separately. You can also cook the noodles in a separate pot and add them to individual bowls as you serve the soup.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6
Description
Enjoy a classic, homemade chicken noodle soup that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This comforting and delicious recipe is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, shredded or cubed
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. – Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
3. – Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. – Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. – Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. – Add the egg noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
7. – Remove the bay leaves and serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
– For a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and simmer for a few minutes after adding the noodles.
– Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, and I can’t wait for you to try it. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, flavorful broth is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re under the weather, craving a warm hug in a bowl, or just looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this soup is sure to become a new go-to in your kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your stockpot and get ready to experience the magic of homemade Classic Chicken Noodle Soup. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
