Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering warmth, nourishment, and a sense of coziness that’s perfect for any time of year, especially during the colder months. This classic recipe combines hearty chicken, tender vegetables, and savory broth with egg noodles to create a soul-satisfying bowl of goodness. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family or enjoying on a chilly evening. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a homemade remedy for the common cold, this Chicken Noodle Soup is sure to hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty: This soup is the perfect blend of tender chicken, veggies, and noodles in a rich, savory broth, making it a comforting dish on cold days.
2. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this soup can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the vegetables, noodles, or seasonings to suit your tastes, making it a versatile recipe.
4. Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is both nutritious and filling, offering a balanced meal.
5. Great for Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days and can also be frozen for a future meal, making it ideal for meal prep.

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Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onion (chopped)
• Carrots (sliced)
• Celery stalks (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth
• Cooked chicken (shredded)
• Egg noodles
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

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Variations

1. Add Extra Vegetables: Add other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to make the soup even more nutrient-dense.
2. Use Different Noodles: If you prefer, swap egg noodles for any other type of pasta, such as rotini or farfalle.
3. Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: For a kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili.
4. Herb Variations: Try adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill to elevate the flavor profile.
5. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to create a creamier version of the soup.

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How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil.

Step 5: Stir in Chicken and Noodles

Stir in the cooked chicken and egg noodles. Simmer the soup until the noodles are cooked, about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

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Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker version, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
2. Adjust Broth Amount: If you prefer a brothier soup, add extra chicken broth or water to thin it out.
3. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Make sure to watch the noodles closely while they cook to avoid them becoming too soft or mushy.
4. Add Fresh Herbs at the End: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end to preserve their flavor and aroma.
5. Homemade Chicken Broth: For an even more flavorful soup, consider using homemade chicken broth or stock.

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How to Serve

This Chicken Noodle Soup is delicious on its own or served with a side of crusty bread or a warm roll. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal. It’s the perfect option for a cozy dinner or to serve to sick family members as a comforting remedy.

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Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat it on the stove until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat the soup, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option.

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FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked chicken in the soup?

Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Simply cook it in the pot with the vegetables before adding the broth.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any small pasta, like elbow macaroni, rotini, or even rice if you prefer.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for several days. It also freezes well.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add the ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.

6. How can I make the soup spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to add heat to the soup.

7. Can I use store-bought broth?

Yes, store-bought broth is a great option and will save you time. Choose a low-sodium variety for better control over the salt level.

8. How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

9. Can I add cream to make it creamy?

Yes, you can add heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking for a creamy version of this soup.

10. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with a variety of sides like garlic bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, with its delicious combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and hearty noodles in a savory broth. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a remedy for the common cold, it’s a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try this simple recipe today, and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!

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