Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Comforting soup with tender chicken, carrots, celery, and egg noodles in a rich broth.
Details
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups wide egg noodles
- Fresh thyme and parsley
Instructions
- 1
Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in oil until soft.
- 2
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- 3
Pour in broth and thyme. Bring to a boil.
- 4
Add noodles and cook until tender.
- 5
Stir in cooked chicken and heat through.
- 6
Season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
About This Recipe
Few dishes evoke such a profound sense of warmth and well-being as a classic chicken noodle soup. This beloved American staple transcends its simple ingredients, serving not only as a comforting meal but also as a traditional remedy for colds and a symbol of home. Its origins are deeply rooted in practical, nourishing cooking, combining readily available poultry with humble vegetables and carbohydrates to create a wholesome, satisfying broth. What makes this particular rendition special is its reliance on fresh aromatics and quality broth to build a robust flavor foundation. Sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant—the 'mirepoix'—is a critical technique, unlocking their sweet, savory essence before the garlic is added for its pungent depth. The use of already cooked and shredded chicken breasts streamlines the process, ensuring tender meat without overcooking. A good quality chicken broth is paramount here, as it forms the soul of the soup; opt for low-sodium to control seasoning. While wide egg noodles are traditional, common variations include using rotini, ditalini, or even alphabet pasta, and adding vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrition. Finishing with a generous handful of fresh thyme and parsley brightens the entire dish, adding an herbaceous, aromatic lift. Serve this soul-soothing soup with a thick slice of crusty bread for dipping and perhaps a simple side salad to complete a perfectly comforting meal.
Tips & Tricks
- • To ensure maximum flavor, sauté your mirepoix (onion, carrots, celery) until they are very tender and slightly caramelized before adding the garlic. This crucial step develops a deep, sweet base for your broth.
- • For a gluten-free variation, substitute the egg noodles with rice noodles or a gluten-free pasta, adding them towards the end of cooking to prevent over-softening. You could also add spinach or kale for extra greens.
- • If making ahead, cook the egg noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when serving. This prevents the noodles from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy during storage or reheating.
- • Pair this classic soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The savory, warm soup complements the rich sandwich or the refreshing salad perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)