Chicken noodle soup is a timeless comfort food that has earned a place in kitchens around the world. It’s simple to make, filling, and perfect for serving during busy weeknights, chilly days, or whenever you’re looking for a satisfying homemade meal.
This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe comes together with everyday ingredients and delivers a warm, comforting bowl that the whole family can enjoy. Follow the easy steps below to make a classic soup that’s sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
1. Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe (Yield: 8 Servings)
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon butter
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3-4 large carrots, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 10 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary, or more, to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 4 cups dry egg noodles, or other bite-size pasta
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor, or chicken bouillon granules
Instructions
Place a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, add the diced celery and carrots. Cook the vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.
Pour the chicken stock or broth into the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Add the salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Allow the soup to cook for about 15 to 20 minutes so the vegetables become tender and the flavors have time to develop.
Add the dry egg noodles directly into the simmering broth. Stir well to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Continue cooking according to the package directions, usually about 6 to 8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
While the noodles are cooking, shred or chop the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the noodles are nearly done, add the chicken to the pot and stir gently to combine.
Mix in the Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor or chicken bouillon granules. Stir thoroughly until completely dissolved. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or bouillon according to your preference.
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes so the chicken is heated through and the flavors blend together.
Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately with crackers, crusty bread, or a simple side salad if desired.
2. Tips for Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Use a high-quality chicken stock or broth as it forms the foundation of the soup’s flavor. A rich broth can make a noticeable difference in the final result.
Cut the carrots and celery into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly and create a consistent texture throughout the soup.
Avoid overcooking the noodles. They will continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits, so cooking them just until tender helps prevent them from becoming mushy.
If you expect leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual bowls before serving. This helps maintain the best texture when reheating.
Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but leftover roasted or poached chicken also works well in this recipe.
Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding extra broth if needed. Noodles tend to absorb liquid over time, especially after refrigeration.
Taste and adjust the seasonings at the end of cooking. A small amount of additional bouillon can enhance the flavor without requiring extra salt.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken noodle soup in advance?
Yes. The soup can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Many people find that the flavors become even better after resting overnight.
What is the best pasta to use besides egg noodles?
Small pasta shapes such as ditalini, small shells, rotini, elbow macaroni, or farfalle work well and hold up nicely in the broth.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely. Peas, corn, green beans, spinach, kale, and mushrooms are popular additions that can add variety and extra nutrition.
How should I store leftover chicken noodle soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes. Simply replace the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta and confirm that your broth and bouillon products are certified gluten-free.
4. Nutrition Information
The following nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 27g |
| Potassium | 540mg |
Homemade chicken noodle soup is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, noodles, and flavorful broth creates a satisfying dish that everyone at the table can enjoy.
Keep this recipe handy for busy weeknights, family dinners, or days when you want something warm and comforting. With its simple preparation and reliable results, this chicken noodle soup recipe is one you’ll find yourself making again and again.
