Why Make This Recipe
Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and the soul. It’s perfect for chilly days, when you need something hearty and soothing. Made with simple ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and is packed with veggies, making it a nutritious choice for the family.
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls. You can pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a nice touch.
How to Store Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
To store the soup, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months. Just be sure to leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze it, as they can become mushy when reheated.
Tips to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
- For more flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
- If you want a heartier soup, use more chicken or noodles.
Variation
You can make a creamy version of this soup by adding a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. You can also swap egg noodles for rice or another type of pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw chicken. Just cook it in the broth first, then remove it, shred it, and return it to the pot.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and replacing chicken with tofu or skipping it altogether.
3. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Certainly! Frozen vegetables can save time and are just as nutritious. Just add them to the soup during cooking time.