Chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This hearty soup is easy to make and packed with flavor. Here’s a detailed recipe for making delicious homemade chicken noodle soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3 carrots, sliced
• 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2-3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 2 cups egg noodles or any pasta of your choice
• 1-2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: bay leaf, lemon juice, or fresh herbs like dill or thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

2. Add Garlic:

   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

1. Add Broth:

   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. If you’re using a bay leaf, add it now.

2. Season:

   • Add the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Noodles

1. Add Chicken:

   • If you’re using uncooked chicken, add it to the pot now. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. If you’re using cooked chicken, you can add it in the next step.

2. Add Noodles:

   • Once the chicken is cooked (or if you’re using pre-cooked chicken), add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions until tender, usually about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Check for Doneness:

   • If using uncooked chicken, remove it from the pot after it’s cooked, shred or dice it, and return it to the soup.

2. Adjust Consistency:

   • If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

3. Add Fresh Herbs and Lemon Juice:

   • For added brightness, squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the soup and stir in fresh parsley or other herbs if desired.

4. Remove Bay Leaf:

   • If you used a bay leaf, remove it before serving.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. You can also add some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for Making Chicken Noodle Soup

• Broth Quality: The quality of your chicken broth greatly affects the flavor of the soup. If possible, use homemade broth or a good-quality store-bought option.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just note that the noodles may become softer upon reheating.

Chicken noodle soup is not only a comforting dish but also versatile and easy to customize. Enjoy your homemade bowl of warmth!