Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting, quick, and flavorful recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a rich broth, this homemade soup is an ideal choice for a simple family dinner or a cozy meal during cold weather. Customizable and beginner-friendly, this recipe ensures a delicious result every time. Find tips, substitutions, and serving suggestions to make this classic dish your own.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 sticks celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (uncooked)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the chicken breasts and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
4. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot with the lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Add the egg noodles to the pot and stir. Increase the heat slightly to ensure a gentle boil, cooking for about 8 minutes with the lid off. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking to the bottom.
6. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot. If needed, cook a few more minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
7. Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 40 minutes.
• Comforting and Nutritious: Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Tips

• For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth or low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
• Shred the chicken using two forks while it’s still warm for easy handling.
• To prevent mushy noodles, cook them separately and add them to individual servings.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor, or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas for a nutritious twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of egg noodles.
• Herbs: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, but for best results, cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating to avoid sogginess.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the noodles. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

What can I use instead of egg noodles?
Rice, quinoa, or any small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo work well.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side of buttery crackers.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavors.