Chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal. Here's a straightforward recipe to help you make a delicious pot of chicken noodle soup:

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
  • 1 cup egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

  2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Stir to combine. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

  3. Cook Noodles: Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

  4. Add Chicken: Stir in the cooked chicken. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is heated through.

  5. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

  • For Extra Flavor: You can add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of soy sauce for added depth of flavor.
  • For a Heartier Soup: Add more vegetables like peas or green beans.
  • Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days and can be frozen for longer storage. If freezing, you might want to cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating to avoid them becoming mushy.

Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup! It’s perfect for a chilly day or when you need a comforting meal.