Delicious Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: The Perfect Remedy for Cold Days

Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s to warm up on a cold day or to soothe a little cold, this family cooking classic never disappoints. Easy to prepare, healthy, and full of flavor, chicken noodle soup is perfect for a nourishing and balanced meal. Follow this simple recipe to make a homemade soup full of taste, perfect for the whole family!

Ingredients and Preparation of Chicken Noodle Soup

Here is a quick and tasty version of chicken noodle soup. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, but the result is a bowl of pure comfort.

Ingredients:

2 chicken thighs or 2 boneless chicken breasts
200 g of noodles (egg noodle type)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 chopped onion
2 carrots sliced
2 celery stalks diced
3 crushed garlic cloves
1.5 liters of chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps:

Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs or breasts and brown them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, until they are lightly browned and fragrant.
Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a boil.
Cook the Chicken in the Broth: Return the chicken to the pot and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Add the Noodles: Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred them with two forks. Meanwhile, add the noodles to the broth and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8 to 10 minutes).
Add the Shredded Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the soup once the noodles are cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Soup: Remove the bay leaf and serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Chicken Noodle Soup

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use roasted or pre-cooked chicken to save time. Just shred it and add it to the soup right before serving.

How do I store leftover soup?
Chicken noodle soup keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it without the noodles (as they become mushy after thawing). Add fresh noodles when reheating.

Can I substitute the noodles with other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use short pasta like small shells, farfalle, or penne if you don’t have noodles on hand.

What vegetables can I add to my chicken noodle soup?
In addition to carrots and celery, you can add zucchini, spinach, or leeks for even more flavor and nutrients.

How can I enhance the flavor of my chicken broth?
For an even more flavorful broth, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a splash of soy sauce for additional depth. You can also make your own homemade chicken broth by simmering chicken bones with vegetables and herbs.

Tips for a Successful Chicken Noodle Soup

Cook the noodles separately if preparing the soup in advance: To prevent the noodles from becoming too soft, you can cook them separately and add them to the soup just before serving.
Vary the herbs: Thyme and bay leaves bring classic flavor, but you can try other herbs like oregano or basil for a different twist.
Use homemade broth: Nothing beats homemade chicken broth for an even tastier and richer soup. If you have time, prepare a broth by simmering a chicken carcass with vegetables and herbs.

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is a classic, simple, and healthy dish suitable for any time of year, but especially in winter or when you need a comforting meal. This recipe allows you to create a flavorful and easy-to-make soup. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and noodles to make a dish that the whole family will love. Prepare this soup for your next dinner and savor every spoonful of comfort!