Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you have been craving a soul-warming classic, this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. There is something deeply satisfying about the way tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and vibrant vegetables come together in a fragrant, silky broth. Every spoonful offers comfort and nourishment, making it the ultimate go-to meal whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want a cozy dinner. This recipe is straightforward yet bursting with flavor, transforming simple pantry staples into a heartwarming dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity and the freshness of its ingredients. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor — from the earthy thyme and bright parsley to the sweet carrots and savory chicken that form the soup’s backbone.

• Whole chicken (about 4 pounds): The star protein, which yields rich broth and tender meat.
• 12 cups water: The base that extracts flavor and creates the soup’s comforting liquid.
• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
• 2 carrots, sliced: Provide natural sweetness and a pop of orange color.
• 2 celery stalks, sliced: Bring a subtle earthiness and crunch.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives an aromatic punch to the soup.
• 2 bay leaves: Add a warm and slightly floral note to the broth.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme: Offers a gentle herbal undertone perfect for chicken dishes.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds an extra herbaceous touch.
• 8 ounces egg noodles: Classic soup noodles that soak up the broth beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to toast the noodles for added texture and nuttiness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh burst of color and flavor just before serving.
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional): A bright squeeze of lemon lifts the whole dish with a subtle zing.

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broth Base

Begin by placing the whole chicken into a large stockpot and adding the water along with roughly chopped onion, sliced carrots, celery, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This combination lays the foundation for a deeply flavorful broth that will carry the entire soup.

Step 2: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer for about one to one and a half hours. During this time, the chicken cooks through tenderly while the vegetables infuse the broth with sweet, savory notes. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface for a cleaner, crisper broth.

Step 3: Remove Chicken and Bay Leaves

Carefully lift the whole chicken out of the pot and set it aside to cool slightly, while you discard the bay leaves from the broth. These leaves have done their job seasoning the soup and no longer need to stay in.

Step 4: Strain the Broth

Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot to separate the liquid from the cooked vegetables and herbs. This step ensures a clear, silky broth. Taste it and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if the flavor needs a little boosting.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cool enough to handle, remove the chicken skin and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. This shredded chicken will add tender protein back into the soup and soak up every ounce of warm broth.

Step 6: Add Herbs to Broth

Bring the strained broth back to a simmer and stir in dried thyme and dried parsley. These herbs add those classic aromatic hints that make chicken noodle soup so irresistibly comforting.

Step 7: Toast the Noodles

In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the egg noodles. Toast them gently until they turn a lovely golden color, about three minutes. This extra step brings a subtle nutty flavor and prevents the noodles from becoming mushy later.

Step 8: Cook the Noodles in Broth

Add the toasted noodles into the simmering broth and cook until the noodles are al dente—tender but with a slight chew. This takes about eight to ten minutes and ensures the perfect soup texture.

Step 9: Return Chicken to Pot

Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot and allow everything to simmer together for an additional five minutes, letting the flavors meld and the chicken warm through.

Step 10: Add Fresh Parsley and Final Seasoning

Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped parsley for a burst of brightness and lovely color. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary to suit your preference.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steamy soup into bowls and offer lemon wedges for those who want to add a hint of citrus brightness. Now it’s time to savor the rich, homemade goodness that only a true Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe can deliver.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a staple, lifting both flavor and appearance. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and balances the savory broth while a sprinkle of cracked black pepper can give just the right touch of heat. For a little extra indulgence, a swirl of cream or a grating of parmesan can be delightful.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with freshly baked bread or crusty baguettes, perfect for dipping into the broth. A light side salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish without overwhelming its gentle flavors. For something heartier, a grilled cheese sandwich on the side brings a nostalgic pairing that’s hard to beat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls to evoke a homey feel, or in clear glass mugs for a charming, modern twist at casual gatherings. You can also hollow out small round sourdough loaves to use as edible bowls, making an impressive presentation that’s both fun and functional.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover soup to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. Keep the noodles separate if you want to maintain their texture rather than letting them soak and soften in the broth.

Freezing

This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Store the broth and shredded chicken separately from the noodles for best results. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then combine on the stove, reheating gently until steaming.

Reheating

Reheat soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. If the noodles have absorbed too much broth and thickened the soup, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture and regain that perfect comforting consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add excellent flavor and tend to stay juicy. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but the soup will remain just as tasty.

What can I substitute for egg noodles?

Any pasta shape you like can work well in this soup. Bowtie, shells, or even gluten-free options can be good alternatives depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to strain the broth?

Straining makes the broth smooth and clear, but if you prefer a heartier texture with soft vegetables, you can skip this step and simply remove the bay leaves.

How do I prevent noodles from getting mushy?

To keep your noodles from overcooking, cook them separately or add them just before serving. Toasting the noodles beforehand, as in this recipe, also helps maintain their texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can create a vegetarian version by substituting vegetable broth and omitting the chicken. Add protein-rich ingredients like tofu or chickpeas and plenty of veggies for depth.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a timeless classic that anyone can master with a bit of patience and love. The careful simmering, fresh herbs, and simple ingredients come together into a soothing bowl of comfort. I encourage you to make it your own and enjoy the delightful warmth it brings — perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a little extra care on your plate.

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