Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm, comforting dish with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and soft noodles in a clear, tasty broth. It’s a classic favorite for cold days or when you want something soothing.
I find myself craving it whenever I feel a bit under the weather. Making it makes my kitchen smell like home—what’s not to love?
For a quick boost, add some fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor. It’s great served hot with crusty bread on the side!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, quick-cooking meat. If you prefer, chicken thighs stay juicier and add richer flavor. Both can be shredded or chopped for a cozy bite.
Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles give the soup a hearty texture. You can swap with ramen or orthodontic pasta if needed. Just be sure to cook them separately to prevent sogginess.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and color. If fresh aren’t available, frozen chopped carrots work well and save time. Thin slices or small dices help them cook faster.
Celery: Adds crunch and subtle flavor. You can replace with chopped fennel or bell peppers if you want a twist. Just chop fairly small for even cooking.
Broth: Chicken broth forms the base, offering rich flavor. You can use low-sodium broth to control salt. Vegetable broth is a good vegetarian substitute if you skip the chicken.
How do I cook tender chicken quickly in soup?
Cook the chicken in simmering broth for about 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temp hits 165°F. Use a fork to shred it, or remove it to chop before returning it to the soup. Keep the heat gentle to prevent tough meat.
- Start with simmering broth over medium heat.
- Add raw chicken breasts or thighs and cook covered.
- Check for doneness at 10-minute mark; cook longer if needed.
- Remove chicken, shred with forks, then stir back into the soup.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 25 minutes. Total: 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Chop the vegetables, cook the chicken, and set everything aside. This takes about 10 minutes.
2. Sauté the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Add garlic and broth
Stir in minced garlic. Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Cook the noodles and chicken
Add egg noodles and shredded chicken to the pot. Cook for 8-10 minutes until noodles are tender.
5. Season and serve
Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with bread if desired.
