Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic

When the weather turns chilly or you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of homestyle chicken noodle soup. With its savory broth, tender chicken, and flavorful vegetables, this recipe is sure to satisfy both your stomach and soul. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, a cozy dinner, or to enjoy for lunch throughout the week, this chicken noodle soup is a classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

Making homestyle chicken noodle soup is a straightforward process, and the ingredients required are ones you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
• 1 onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the soup base.
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced – A natural sweetness and texture to complement the savory broth.
• 2 ribs celery, diced – Gives the soup a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the aroma and flavor of the soup.
• 8 cups chicken stock – The base of the soup, rich and comforting.
• 2 bay leaves – For an extra layer of savory flavor.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – To season the soup to taste.
• 2 ½ pounds bone-in, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the soup, tender and juicy when cooked.
• 2 ½ cups wide egg noodles – The perfect noodle for soaking up all the flavorful broth.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For a burst of fresh color and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill – Adds a subtle herbaceous note.
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – A hint of acidity to balance out the richness of the soup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and begun to bubble, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened but still slightly crisp. This process helps to release their flavors and creates a savory foundation for the soup.

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just long enough for the garlic to become fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

2. Add the Chicken Stock and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the liquid. Pour in the 8 cups of chicken stock, which will give the soup its rich, flavorful base. Toss in the 2 bay leaves, which will infuse the broth with a subtle herbal flavor. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything to combine and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

3. Cook the Chicken

Once the soup is boiling, carefully add the bone-in, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the chicken cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and easily shreddable. During this time, the chicken will infuse the broth with its savory flavor, making the soup even more comforting.

Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Discard the bones and then dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the diced chicken aside for later.

4. Add the Pasta

Now, stir in the 2 ½ cups of wide egg noodles into the soup. Let the soup simmer for another 6-7 minutes until the noodles are cooked and tender. Keep an eye on the noodles as they cook, ensuring they don’t overcook and become mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

5. Stir in Fresh Herbs and Lemon Juice

Once the noodles are done, it’s time to add some fresh flavor. Stir in the chopped parsley, chopped dill, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The parsley and dill will add a fresh herbal touch, while the lemon juice will provide a bright, tangy contrast to the richness of the broth. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

The soup is now ready to serve. Spoon the homestyle chicken noodle soup into bowls, making sure each serving has plenty of noodles, vegetables, and chicken. This soup is perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re craving something comforting and nourishing.

Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve with a side of warm crusty bread or a slice of toast to complete the meal. Enjoy your hearty, homemade chicken noodle soup!

Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a Must-Make

Comforting and Nutritious

Chicken noodle soup is one of those dishes that not only tastes delicious but is also incredibly comforting. Packed with vegetables, chicken, and egg noodles, it provides a balanced meal that’s nourishing and satisfying. The warm broth is perfect for soothing a cold or just relaxing after a long day.

Perfect for Any Season

Although chicken noodle soup is often associated with cold weather, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a rainy spring day, a bowl of this homestyle chicken noodle soup will always hit the spot. It’s also a great option for family meals, as it’s hearty and filling.

Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding extra vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or corn, depending on what you have available. You can also adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences, adding more lemon juice or herbs for extra flavor. Want to make it a bit spicier? Add some red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This chicken noodle soup makes great leftovers! The flavors meld even better the next day, making it an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months if you’d like to enjoy it at a later time.

Conclusion

This homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe is everything you need in a comforting, hearty meal. With its flavorful broth, tender chicken, and satisfying noodles, it’s a dish that can bring warmth and joy to any table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in need of a nourishing meal. Whether you make it for yourself or share it with loved ones, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.