Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Looking for the perfect comfort food that’s hearty, nourishing, and packed with flavor? Look no further! This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is just what you need for those cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a savory broth, making it the ultimate soul-soothing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s something special about a bowl of homemade chicken soup. The rich broth, tender pieces of chicken, and the mix of veggies and noodles create a dish that warms you from the inside out. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with fresh vegetables and lean chicken, this soup offers a well-balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping.
Versatile: You can easily customize this soup by swapping out vegetables, using different types of noodles, or even adding herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this flavorful chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
8 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (frozen or canned)
2 cups egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your own homestyle chicken noodle soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by prepping your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and chop the celery. If using fresh green beans, trim and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Broth

Next, toss in the carrots, celery, and green beans. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to cook for about 5 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Seasonings

Once the soup comes to a boil, lower the heat to a simmer. Add in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles (or your chosen pasta) to the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. If you prefer your noodles softer, you can cook them for a bit longer.

Step 6: Stir in Corn and Final Seasoning

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the sweet corn. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the warm, comforting chicken noodle soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s perfectly cooked and adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out regular egg noodles for gluten-free noodles if you have dietary restrictions. Be sure to check the label on the chicken broth as well to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Double the Recipe: This soup is great for meal prep! Make a larger batch and freeze individual portions for quick meals on busy days.
Add Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme and parsley work wonderfully, adding fresh herbs like rosemary, dill, or basil can elevate the flavor even more.

Why Chicken Noodle Soup Is Good for You

Chicken noodle soup isn’t just comfort food—it’s actually good for you! The broth provides hydration and is easy on the stomach, while the vegetables add vitamins and minerals. The chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the noodles provide the energy you need to get through the day.

Many people turn to this soup when they’re sick, and for good reason. The warm broth helps soothe sore throats, clear up congestion, and may even help reduce inflammation. Plus, it’s a great way to get your body the nutrients it needs when your appetite isn’t at its best.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Noodle Soup

This homemade chicken noodle soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

In the Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles (they can become mushy when thawed). Simply freeze the soup base and add freshly cooked noodles when you’re ready to enjoy it. The soup base will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When reheating, be sure to warm the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop. If you’re reheating from frozen, let the soup thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Customizing Your Chicken Noodle Soup

One of the best things about homestyle chicken noodle soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

Add Other Vegetables: Try adding potatoes, zucchini, or peas for a different take on this classic soup.
Try Different Noodles: Instead of egg noodles, you can use spaghetti, rotini, or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to give the soup a richer, creamier texture.

Conclusion

This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of comfort that you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a meal-prep option, or something to help you feel better, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment in every spoonful!