If you have ever craved something warm, soothing, and downright satisfying on a chilly day, look no further than The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe. This classic homemade soup brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a fragrant broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Each spoonful is a delightful balance of flavors and textures that instantly lifts your spirits and nourishes your soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become your go-to comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe couldn’t be simpler thanks to its straightforward, fresh, and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the taste, texture, and inviting color that makes this soup so irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness that helps soften and sweeten the vegetables.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a foundational depth of flavor and gentle sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a delicious savory punch.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Offer a pleasant sweetness and vibrant orange color to brighten the bowl.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Add fresh crispness and a mild herbal note.
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium): The soul of the soup, creating a savory, comforting base.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled): Provides tender, protein-packed bites to satisfy cravings.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the broth with gentle earthiness and a hint of floral aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends subtle complexity and depth to the seasoning.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups egg noodles: The comforting, tender pasta that makes every spoonful hearty and filling.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finish and lovely color pop.
How to Make The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. This step lays the flavorful foundation and adds a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Broth and Bring to a Boil
Next, pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat. Bring the mixture to a lively boil. This bubbling action begins to meld the veggie flavors into the broth and prepares the base for the tender chicken and noodles.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly. Then add in your shredded cooked chicken. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let everything mingle for about 10 minutes. This slow simmer lets the flavors blend beautifully, making every spoonful rich and cozy.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Finally, stir in the egg noodles and continue cooking for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the noodles become tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them to make sure they soak up just the right amount of broth and stay pleasantly soft.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Ladle the soup into bowls and prepare to dig into an ultimate comfort dish.
How to Serve The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh parsley is a classic and lovely garnish, you can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a dash of cracked black pepper, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Each addition can elevate the soup’s character and tailor it to your mood or guest preferences.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or buttery crackers to soak up every delicious drop. A light side salad or steamed green veggies complement the meal nicely if you want to round out your dinner with something fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe in rustic bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls for a charming touch. For a fun twist, add a swirl of pesto or a dollop of creamy sour cream on top. These little creative touches bring both visual appeal and an extra flavor layer perfect for impressing family or friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keeping the noodles separate if possible can prevent them from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy.
Freezing
You can freeze The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe, but it’s best to store the broth and chicken separately from the noodles to maintain texture. Freeze in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge for easiest reheating later.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If refrigerated noodles were added before storing, they might soften too much, so consider adding fresh noodles while reheating if you prefer them firmer.
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for this soup, you can substitute with any pasta you enjoy, like fusilli, shells, or even gluten-free varieties. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This will give you a deliciously comforting soup that everyone can enjoy.
How do I make the soup more flavorful?
Using homemade chicken broth or adding a splash of white wine while simmering can deepen the soup’s flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley really make a difference too.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Sauté the veggies first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add noodles in the final 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
What is the best way to shred chicken for the soup?
Using two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts or thighs works great and is quick. You can also use your hands once the chicken has cooled slightly for a more rustic texture.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like digging into a bowl of The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe on a day when you crave warmth and nourishment. It’s simple, satisfying, and brimming with love in every bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become a cherished staple in your kitchen—comfort food doesn’t get any better than this.
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The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic chicken noodle soup recipe offers the ultimate comfort food experience with tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, nutritious meal, this easy-to-make soup is ready in just 35 minutes and serves six.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Noodles and Garnish
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let everything cook together for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape.
- Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete and comforting meal.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt content.
- Rotisserie chicken adds convenience and extra flavor.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with fresh thyme or basil for variation.
- Egg noodles can be replaced with gluten-free noodles if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the noodles.
