Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or when you're feeling under the weather. This easy recipe delivers a delicious and hearty bowl without requiring hours in the kitchen. We'll cover everything from choosing the right chicken to perfecting the broth, ensuring your soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Chicken Noodle Soup?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on your preferences and time constraints. You can use:
- Rotisserie Chicken: The quickest and easiest option. Simply shred the chicken and add it to your broth. This significantly reduces prep time.
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Breasts or Thighs: These will give you a richer, more flavorful broth. Allow extra time for cooking the chicken.
- Chicken Carcass (bones and leftover skin): If you have leftover chicken bones from a previous meal, use them to make a truly intense and flavorful broth.
For this easy recipe, we'll focus on using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor, but rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.
How Do I Make a Flavorful Broth for My Chicken Noodle Soup?
The foundation of any good chicken noodle soup is the broth. Here's how to make a flavorful one:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté diced carrots, celery, and onion in a little olive oil until softened. This adds depth and sweetness to your broth.
- Add Chicken and Liquids: Add your chicken thighs (or other chicken choice), water or chicken broth, and a bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through (about 30-40 minutes for thighs, less for breasts).
- Skim the Broth: While the soup simmers, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This ensures a clear and delicious broth.
- Remove and Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred the meat. Set aside.
- Strain the Broth: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the bones, vegetables, and bay leaf. Return the broth to the pot.
What Vegetables Can I Add to My Easy Chicken Noodle Soup?
While carrots, celery, and onion are classic additions, feel free to experiment! Consider adding:
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add an earthy flavor and texture.
- Spinach or Kale: Add these leafy greens during the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of nutrients.
- Corn: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Green beans or peas: These add a fresh, vibrant element.
Remember to adjust cooking times based on the vegetable you choose.
What Kind of Noodles Are Best for Chicken Noodle Soup?
Egg noodles are a traditional choice and hold up well in the soup. Other good options include:
- Small pasta shapes: Ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work well.
- Shredded noodles: These are thin and cook quickly.
How Long Should I Cook My Noodles in Chicken Noodle Soup?
Cook your noodles according to package directions. Typically, this is about 8-10 minutes, but be sure to check for doneness as cooking times may vary. You don't want overcooked, mushy noodles.
Can I Make Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the next day. Make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Recipe: Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 45-60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or 2 lbs rotisserie chicken)
- 8 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the carrots, celery, and onion in olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the chicken, water or broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Skim off any foam.
- Remove chicken from the pot and shred.
- Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Add the shredded chicken.
- Add the noodles and cook according to package directions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade chicken noodle soup! Remember to adapt this recipe to your preferences – culinary creativity is key!
