Comfort in a Bowl: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup to soothe the soul and warm the body. Our Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is the epitome of comfort food—a classic dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, this soup is perfect for chilly days, comforting nights, and anytime you need a little pick-me-up. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- 8 cups chicken broth.
- 2 cups water.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced.
- 1 medium onion, diced.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced.
- 1 bay leaf.
- 1 tsp dried thyme.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 2 cups egg noodles.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, place the chicken breasts or thighs and cover them with chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the sliced carrots, celery, diced onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the Chicken and Noodles: Once the vegetables are tender, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the egg noodles and continue to simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked al dente.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: For added depth of flavor, you can sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil or butter before adding them to the pot.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables. Peas, corn, mushrooms, or diced potatoes would all be great additions.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have dried thyme or parsley on hand, you can use fresh herbs instead. Simply chop them finely and adjust the quantity to taste.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamy chicken noodle soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
Keto Version:
To make a keto-friendly version of this soup, you’ll need to make a few adjustments. Replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to keep the carb count low. Use bone broth instead of chicken broth for added nutrients and collagen. Ensure that the vegetables used are low-carb options such as broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach. Additionally, use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a higher fat content. With these modifications, you can enjoy a delicious keto chicken noodle soup that’s both comforting and keto-friendly.
Low Carb Version:
For a low-carb version of this soup, swap out the egg noodles for spiralized vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or daikon radish. Use a low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the sodium content. Increase the protein content by adding extra shredded chicken or diced tofu. You can also add extra vegetables like kale, cabbage, or bell peppers for added fiber and nutrients. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a hearty and nutritious low-carb chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I freeze chicken noodle soup? A: Yes, chicken noodle soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch? A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the chicken meat and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free? A: To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free egg noodles or substitute with gluten-free pasta of your choice. Ensure that the chicken broth and any other ingredients used are also gluten-free.
Q: Can I add other herbs or spices to the soup? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the soup. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra depth and complexity to the dish.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless classic that never fails to warm the soul and delight the taste buds. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect dish for chilly days, sick days, or any day you’re in need of a little comfort. Whether enjoyed as a starter, main course, or even a light lunch, this soup is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. So, why not cozy up with a bowl of this delicious soup and savor every spoonful?
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal, in need of a nourishing pick-me-up, or simply want to enjoy the simple pleasures of a homemade meal, this timeless classic fits the bill. So, why not give this recipe a try and experience the comforting goodness of homemade chicken noodle soup for yourself?
