Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or when you're feeling under the weather. This simple recipe focuses on fresh flavors and minimal ingredients, making it easy to whip up even on a busy weeknight. Forget complicated steps and lengthy prep times; this version delivers big on taste without the fuss.
What You'll Need:
- Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor and depth.
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Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the shredded chicken.
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Cook the Noodles: Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about making chicken noodle soup.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables you enjoy. Consider adding diced potatoes, green beans, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that different vegetables will have different cooking times, so you may need to adjust accordingly. Adding them with the carrots and celery is a safe bet.
What kind of noodles can I use?
Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Avoid using larger pasta that might not cook evenly in the soup.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
How can I make this soup thicker?
For a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) towards the end of the cooking time. Stir it in and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you could add a handful of cooked rice.
Can I freeze leftover chicken noodle soup?
Yes! Chicken noodle soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Perfect Bowl:
- Use high-quality chicken broth: The broth is the base of your soup, so using a flavorful broth will make a big difference.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy and unpleasant.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key to a delicious soup. Taste before serving and add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
This simple chicken noodle soup recipe is a versatile and delicious classic. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a comforting and flavorful meal that your family will love. Enjoy!
