Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Nothing beats a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, especially on a chilly day. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a rich, flavorful soup that will warm you from the inside out. Let's dive into making this classic dish! — Rudi Johnson: Biography, Career & Stats
Why Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
- Flavor: Homemade soup offers a depth of flavor that canned versions simply can't match.
- Ingredients: You control exactly what goes into your soup, ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Comfort: There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup made with love.
What You'll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 12 cups water
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the whole chicken, water, carrots, celery, and onion. Add salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones. Set the shredded chicken aside.
- Strain the Broth: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pot. Discard the cooked vegetables and bay leaves.
- Cook the Noodles: Return the strained broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the noodles and broth. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use High-Quality Chicken: The better the chicken, the richer the flavor of your broth.
- Don't Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Cook them until just tender.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can add a burst of flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or corn.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into each bowl for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Health Benefits
Chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits: — NFL Picks Against The Spread: Expert Analysis
- Hydration: The broth helps keep you hydrated.
- Nutrients: Provides essential vitamins and minerals from the chicken and vegetables.
- Congestion Relief: The warm broth and steam can help clear nasal congestion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade chicken noodle soup with:
- Crusty bread for dipping
- A side salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Call to Action
Ready to make your own comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup? Gather your ingredients and follow this simple recipe for a heartwarming meal that's sure to please. Share your creations with friends and family! — Marry Lisa: Billboard Achievement & Fan Celebration