Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups egg noodles; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Cozy Bowls

I love crafting the perfect bowl of hearty chicken noodle soup, especially on cold, dreary days. This recipe is my go-to comfort food, filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and nourishing noodles. It brings warmth and a sense of home with every spoonful. I can whip this up in no time, and the delightful aroma that fills the kitchen is absolutely irresistible. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken or veggies, making it both practical and delicious. Trust me, this soup is pure hug-in-a-bowl goodness!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:02:28.821Z

Whenever I make my hearty chicken noodle soup, it takes me back to my childhood kitchen. My family enjoyed cozy dinners around the table, and this soup was often the star. I’ve modified it over the years, adding fresh herbs to enhance the flavor and using whole grain noodles for added nutrition. This method ensures the chicken stays moist and the noodles perfectly al dente.

One memorable week, I experimented by adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving, and the bright flavor uplifted the entire dish! It’s amazing how a simple ingredient can elevate such a classic recipe, and I highly recommend giving it a try for a refreshing twist.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious and hearty, perfect for any season.
A fantastic way to use leftover chicken.
Rich in flavor with fresh herbs and spices.

Mastering Flavors in Your Soup

The key to a truly hearty chicken noodle soup lies in the building blocks of flavor. Sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil helps release their natural sweetness. This initial step not only softens the onions but also enhances the aroma of the soup. Be sure to stir frequently during this stage to prevent burning, which can lead to a bitter taste in your final dish.

Adding fresh herbs like thyme and oregano brings a depth of flavor to the soup that dried variants simply cannot match. Choosing to use fresh herbs elevates the dish significantly. If fresh herbs aren't available, you can substitute with dried versions, but use them sparingly as their flavor can be more intense. Remember, these herbs infuse the broth with warmth and a savory aroma that beckons you to the table.

Perfecting Your Noodles

Egg noodles are a classic choice for chicken noodle soup due to their tender texture and ability to absorb the flavors of the broth. When adding the noodles, watch the clock closely and stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together and becoming mushy. Cooking them for about 10 minutes gives you that perfect al dente bite, but remember to taste as you go. If you prefer a gluten-free option, explore using rice noodles, which offer a delightful texture and soak up the broth beautifully.

For a heartier meal, consider adding extra veggies such as peas, corn, or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only introduces vibrant colors but also boosts nutritional content. If you go this route, cut the veggies small enough to ensure they cook through while maintaining a crunchy texture. Experimenting with seasonal vegetables can also keep the recipe fresh and tailored to what’s available.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups egg noodles
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Combine these ingredients for a truly comforting meal.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth, add the shredded chicken, and season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Cook the Noodles

Once boiling, add the egg noodles and reduce the heat to simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.

Finishing Touches

Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh flavor kick. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve hot and enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand for added nutrition! A squeeze of lemon before serving can brighten up the flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storing your chicken noodle soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation from making your soup watery. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, or you can freeze individual portions for up to three months. Just be mindful that the noodles may continue to absorb broth during storage, so you can add a splash of broth when reheating to restore its original consistency.

For reheating, a gentle simmer on the stove is preferable for even warming. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, or use a microwave-safe dish, stirring every few minutes to heat evenly. Adding a splash of water or more broth can help rehydrate the noodles and keep the soup luscious. Avoid boiling it too vigorously, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the noodles to break down further.

Variations to Consider

This chicken noodle soup is incredibly versatile, making it easy to tailor to your personal preferences or dietary needs. For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of sour cream just before serving. This will give you a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect for colder days. Alternatively, you can introduce flavors like lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for a brightness that complements the chicken beautifully.

If you're looking to amp up the nutrient density, consider blending in kale or spinach towards the end of cooking. Just a few handfuls will wilt down nicely and add a variety of vitamins without overwhelming the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes can work wonders and make the soup more exciting. The best part is, these variations allow you to enjoy the core flavors of the recipe while keeping it fresh and engaging.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can use whole grain pasta, rice, or any gluten-free noodles of your choice for a different texture.

→ How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add beans or tofu for protein.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover chicken noodle soup will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.