Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a simple, comforting dish you can make in just 20 minutes. Start by sautéing diced carrots, celery, and onion in your choice of oil. Then, add 8 cups of low sodium chicken stock, a bay leaf, and dried herbs like thyme, basil, and parsley. Bring it to a boil and add uncooked egg noodles and shredded chicken. Simmer until the noodles are cooked. This meal is great for freezing, so you can enjoy it later. Keep reading for more tips!
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
When you make this Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll appreciate how easy it’s to prepare and enjoy. The comforting flavors evoke memories of being cared for during illness.
You can use leftover or rotisserie chicken, making it a versatile option. The quick cooking time means you can have a warm bowl ready in just 20 minutes.
Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly; you can prepare it during the day and reheat later. It’s perfect for freezing, so you’ll have easy lunches on hand.
Recipe
Ingredients
- Oil (olive, avocado, vegetable, or butter)
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 8 cups low sodium chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
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In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion, and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken stock and add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried basil, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-40 minutes to develop the flavors.
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After the soup has simmered, add the uncooked egg noodles and shredded chicken to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
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Once done, remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For best results, consider cooking the noodles separately if you plan on making the soup ahead of time, as this will prevent them from becoming soggy.
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3-4 months. If freezing, undercook the noodles slightly to maintain their texture upon reheating.
Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup, and feel free to experiment with herbs and spices to suit your taste!
Final Thoughts
Making chicken noodle soup is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. This classic dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also offers the flexibility to use leftover ingredients.
Remember to sauté your vegetables first for enhanced flavor. Consider using rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
When storing leftovers, keep noodles separate to maintain their texture. For freezing, cool the soup completely and use airtight containers.
Reheat on the stove or microwave, ensuring it’s heated through. Enjoy this comforting meal any time of year, and share it with family to create lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles in This Recipe?
Imagine finding a treasure chest filled with gold coins. You can definitely use gluten-free noodles in this recipe, giving it a unique twist. Just cook them separately to maintain the best texture and flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Noodle Soup?
You can store leftover soup in airtight containers for 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, cool completely and store for 3-4 months. Just remember to thaw before reheating.
Is It Safe to Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup?
Imagine preserving warmth in a bowl for later. Yes, it’s safe to freeze your soup. Just cool it completely, store it in airtight containers, and enjoy that comforting taste whenever you need a hug in a bowl.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Absolutely, you can add other vegetables to your soup! Try incorporating peas, green beans, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times to guarantee everything cooks evenly and blends well. Enjoy experimenting!
What Herbs Can I Substitute for Dried Ones?
Ever wonder what fresh herbs can elevate your dish? You can substitute dried oregano with fresh, or use basil instead of dried thyme. Just remember, fresh herbs pack a stronger punch, so adjust accordingly!