There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup to soothe the soul and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, in need of a cozy meal on a cold day, or just want a dish packed with wholesome goodness, this recipe is a go-to classic. With juicy chicken thighs, flavorful broth, tender noodles, and plenty of veggies, it’s both nourishing and delicious. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch! In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the best chicken noodle soup right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort: Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a pick-me-up.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create something magical.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, herbs, or even swap noodles for rice.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers and freezes beautifully.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, vitamins, and carbs for a balanced meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless)
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Optional Additions:
- Bay leaves for extra depth of flavor
- Fresh rosemary or dill
- Spinach or kale for extra greens
- A dash of cream for a richer broth
- Chili flakes for a spicy kick
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup (Step-by-Step)
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.
- Simmer the Broth: Add the chicken back to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken thighs and shred the meat with two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the Noodles: Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually about 6-8 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Chicken Thighs: They add more flavor and stay juicy.
- Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade broth makes a big difference.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Add noodles at the end to avoid them turning mushy.
- Layer Flavors: Searing the chicken and sautéing veggies before adding broth builds a richer flavor.
What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping.
- Simple Salad: A light, refreshing side.
- Grilled Cheese: For an ultra-comforting meal.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but thighs are more flavorful and tender. If using breasts, reduce simmering time to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup? Allow the soup to cool fully before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. For optimal texture, freeze without noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
What type of noodles work best? Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use rotini, orzo, or even gluten-free options.
Storage & Reheating
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freeze: Freeze without noodles for up to 3 months.
Variations
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add ½ cup heavy cream.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap noodles for zucchini noodles.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken noodle soup is a classic dish that brings comfort, nourishment, and unbeatable flavor to your table. It’s easy to customize, great for meal prep, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or freezing some for later, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every spoonful of this heartwarming soup!
Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs bone-in, skinless
- 8 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 3 carrots sliced
- 3 celery stalks sliced
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles or any pasta of your choice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon optional, for brightness
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.
- Simmer the Broth: Add the chicken back to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken thighs and shred the meat with two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the Noodles: Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually about 6-8 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
Notes
- Chicken Tips: Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers for convenience. Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor!
- Noodle Choice: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can swap for rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.
- Broth Boost: Add a dash of turmeric or ginger for extra warmth and immune support.
- Make Ahead: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently, adding more broth if needed, as noodles absorb liquid over time.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze without noodles for up to 3 months — add fresh noodles when reheating for best texture.