There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s the ultimate comfort food, rich with homemade flavor, nourishing ingredients, and a touch of nostalgia. This version takes the classic to the next level by using a flavorful broth and tender noodles that soak up all the goodness. The best part? You can adapt it with the noodles and chicken you prefer, making it easy to prepare a soup that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.
What Type of Noodles Work Best?
The beauty of chicken noodle soup is its flexibility when it comes to noodles. You can stick to tradition or get creative:
Homemade Egg Noodles
If you’ve got a few extra minutes, homemade egg noodles add a richness and texture store-bought pasta just can’t match. They require only four ingredients—flour, eggs, milk, and salt—and cook in minutes.
Store-Bought Pasta Options
Not ready to roll out your own noodles? No problem. Try:
- Farfalle (bow-tie pasta) for a hearty bite
- Elbow macaroni for a kid-friendly version
- Rotini or fusilli that holds onto broth and veggies perfectly
The Secret Behind the Best Chicken Stock
At the heart of any great chicken noodle soup is the broth. While store-bought broth is convenient, homemade stock delivers unmatched flavor and nutrition.
Homemade Chicken Stock
Making your own stock is surprisingly simple. A rotisserie chicken works beautifully—you’ll use the meat for your soup and simmer the carcass with aromatics (like onion, celery, and carrot) to create a rich, golden broth.
Store-Bought Broth Tips
If you’re short on time, go ahead and use a quality store-bought broth. Boost the flavor with a spoonful of chicken bouillon paste or a dash of extra herbs.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Stock
Make homemade chicken stock ahead of time or open a carton of good-quality store-bought broth.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt a little butter. Add diced carrots and celery, and cook for 3–4 minutes. Toss in garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in your broth and season generously with salt and pepper. Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of crushed red pepper for warmth.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Once the broth is boiling, add your chosen noodles. Cook until just al dente—they’ll continue softening in the hot soup, so avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Shred cooked chicken (from your rotisserie or freshly poached) and stir it into the pot. Simmer gently for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste your broth and adjust seasonings. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and serve with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for the ultimate cozy meal.
Chicken Noodle Soup: The Best, Quick Homemade Comfort Food Recipe
Equipment
- Enameled Pot
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 ribs celery diced
- 3 –4 carrots diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 10 cups chicken stock homemade or store-bought
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 4 cups noodles egg noodles, farfalle, or macaroni
- 3 cups cooked chicken shredded
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste for extra flavor
Instructions
- Add butter, diced celery and carrots to a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Saute for 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add chicken stock and season the broth with rosemary, thyme, crushed red pepper, and salt (definitely TASTE the broth before adding more salt), and pepper. Taste and add a spoonful of “better than bullion” chicken or chicken bouillon cubes or granules as needed.
- Bring broth to a boil. Add noodles (either uncooked homemade egg noodles, or dry store-bought pasta) and cook just until noodles are al dente.
- If using store-bought noodles, be cautious not to overcook them! Remove pot from heat as soon as they are just barely tender. The noodles will continue to cook once you remove the pot from the heat, and you don’t want them mushy.
- Add chicken meat from the rotisserie chicken. Taste the broth again and add more seasonings, if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, depending on the freshness of the chicken you used.
Notes
Nutrition
Is Chicken Noodle Soup Healthy?
Yes especially when made from scratch.
- Nutrient-rich broth provides vitamins and minerals that help support the immune system.
- Lean chicken offers a high-protein punch.
- Vegetables add antioxidants, fiber, and natural sweetness.
Unlike canned versions loaded with sodium and preservatives, homemade chicken noodle soup is a wholesome, balanced choice.
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead
Chicken noodle soup is one of those dishes that actually improves with time. When stored properly, the flavors of chicken noodle soup deepen overnight, making it even more comforting the next day. If you’re using homemade egg noodles, they’ll hold up beautifully without turning soggy, which makes this chicken noodle soup an excellent meal prep option.
Storage
Keep leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 4–5 days, and the broth remains flavorful without losing its depth. Reheat gently on the stovetop for the best results.
Freezing
Yes, chicken noodle soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. If you’re using store-bought noodles, slightly undercook them before freezing your chicken noodle soup, so they maintain the right texture when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Noodle Soup
What is the secret to the best chicken noodle soup?
The secret to the best chicken noodle soup is starting with a flavorful broth. Homemade chicken stock made from a rotisserie chicken or leftover bones gives the soup a rich, comforting taste. Seasonings like thyme, rosemary, and a touch of garlic bring balance, while cooking the noodles just until al dente keeps the texture perfect.
What ingredients go into chicken noodle soup?
A classic chicken noodle soup includes chicken (shredded rotisserie or freshly cooked), noodles (egg noodles or pasta), and a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion. Garlic, herbs, and a savory broth tie everything together. Some cooks also add a splash of lemon juice or parsley at the end for freshness.
Is chicken noodle soup actually healthy?
Yes, chicken noodle soup is considered a healthy meal, especially when made from scratch. The broth provides hydration and minerals, the chicken delivers lean protein, and the vegetables supply vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Unlike canned versions, homemade chicken noodle soup is lower in sodium and free from preservatives.
What is the difference between chicken soup and chicken noodle soup?
The main difference is the noodles. Traditional chicken soup may include rice, barley, or simply chicken and vegetables simmered in broth. Chicken noodle soup, on the other hand, specifically includes noodles, making it a heartier, more filling dish.
Conclusion
Chicken noodle soup isn’t just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. From the soothing broth to the tender chicken and hearty noodles, it delivers flavor, warmth, and nourishment in every spoonful. By using homemade stock, choosing quality ingredients, and cooking noodles just right, you can create chicken noodle soup that’s far better than anything canned or store-bought. Whether you’re making it ahead for busy nights, freezing it for later, or serving it fresh to family and friends, this recipe will always be a favorite. Give it your own twist, experiment with noodles or seasonings, and enjoy the timeless tradition of homemade chicken noodle soup.
Don’t miss our homemade noodles recipe if you want to take your chicken noodle soup to the next level.
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