Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

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Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re battling a cold or just craving something warm and nourishing, this classic soup has the power to soothe both the body and the soul. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s a timeless dish that has earned a place in kitchens around the world. In this article, we’ll explore how to make the perfect chicken noodle soup from scratch, offer tips for enhancing the flavor, and provide variations to suit your personal tastes.

Why Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a far cry from store-bought versions, often packed with preservatives and artificial flavors. Making your own soup ensures you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to create a dish that is not only healthier but also richer in flavor. Additionally, the aroma of a simmering pot of chicken noodle soup fills the kitchen with warmth, evoking feelings of home and comfort.

The beauty of homemade soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs while maintaining the essence of this beloved dish.

Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Making homemade chicken noodle soup requires just a few essential ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Below is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Olive oil adds a touch of richness and helps sauté the vegetables to create a flavorful base for the soup.
  • 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced thin – Carrots bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
  • 1 cup celery, sliced thin – Celery provides a mild, aromatic flavor and adds crunch to the soup.
  • 1 cup sweet Vidalia or yellow onion, peeled and diced small – Onions form the aromatic base, creating depth and sweetness in the broth.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic adds a savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
  • 64 ounces (8 cups) low-sodium chicken broth – The foundation of the soup, chicken broth provides a savory, rich base that infuses the soup with flavor.
  • 2 bay leaves – Bay leaves add an earthy, subtle herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme) – Thyme is a classic herb that adds an herbal warmth to the soup.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano brings an aromatic, slightly bitter flavor that enhances the taste of the broth.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper, or to taste – Black pepper adds a mild heat and enhances the other flavors in the soup.
  • 12 ounces wide egg noodles (or your favorite noodles or pasta) – Egg noodles are traditional in chicken noodle soup, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken – Use storebought rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook your own chicken for a more personalized touch. This adds protein and substance to the soup.
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped – Parsley provides a fresh, bright finish and adds color to the soup.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) – Lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note that balances the richness of the soup.
  • Salt, to taste – Salt is essential for seasoning the broth and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any caramelized bits from the vegetables. Add the bay leaves, fresh thyme, dried oregano, and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While the soup is simmering, add the egg noodles (or your choice of pasta) to the pot. Stir occasionally to ensure the noodles don’t stick to each other. Cook the noodles for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente. Be sure not to overcook them, as they will continue to soften after being added to the soup.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Once the noodles are cooked, add the shredded chicken to the pot. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it with your hands or a fork. Stir the chicken into the soup and allow it to heat through, about 3-5 minutes. Taste the soup and add salt as needed to balance the flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon

Just before serving, stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. If you’d like to add a touch of brightness to the soup, stir in the lemon juice. The lemon will help cut through the richness of the broth and give the soup a refreshing zing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This homemade chicken noodle soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Tips for the Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Use Fresh Chicken: For an extra boost of flavor, cook your own chicken. Roasting or pan-searing chicken breasts or thighs before shredding them gives the soup a richer, more complex flavor.
  • Season Gradually: Season your soup in stages. Start with a little salt and pepper, then taste as the soup simmers to adjust the seasoning as necessary. This ensures the soup is perfectly seasoned.
  • Noodle Considerations: If you want your noodles to stay al dente longer, cook them separately and add them to the soup just before serving. This helps prevent the noodles from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
  • Make it Ahead: Chicken noodle soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Homemade chicken noodle soup freezes well! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop, adding extra broth if necessary.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re nourishing a sick friend or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this classic soup brings warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. With its tender chicken, tender noodles, and flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup in no time, packed with fresh ingredients and homemade flavor.

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