Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you crave that classic bowl of warmth and comfort, nothing beats a hearty Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. This beloved recipe brings tender chicken, garden-fresh vegetables, and wide egg noodles together in a savory broth that feels like a loving hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a bit of nourishment that tastes like home, this soup is straightforward to prepare yet rich in flavor and texture. Let’s dive into how this Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup can easily become your new favorite go-to meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential to create a balanced flavor profile and comforting texture, making your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup taste like it’s been bubbling on the stove for hours.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps soften the vegetables and adds a subtle fruity richness.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
• 3 large carrots, sliced into rounds: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
• 3 celery stalks, diced: Offers an earthy crunch and classic soup aroma.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Brings warmth and a slight kick to awaken the broth.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme): Infuses herbaceous notes that marry well with the chicken.
• 2 bay leaves: Adds depth and complexity to the simmering broth.
• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The hearty protein star of the soup, tender and flavorful.
• 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the comforting, savory base without overpowering saltiness.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the layered flavors perfectly.
• 3 cups wide egg noodles: Adds a tender, satisfying bite that soaks up the delicious broth.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the soup with fresh herbal notes.
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional): Adds a bright lift to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Introduces extra depth and savory herbs if desired.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect if you like a touch of warmth and subtle heat.
• Fresh dill or extra thyme for garnish (optional): Adds a pretty finishing touch along with bright flavor.

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot rounds, and celery, cooking them until they become tender and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavor for your soup, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Herbs

Next, stir in minced garlic, fresh or dried thyme, and bay leaves. Cooking these ingredients for an additional 1 to 2 minutes releases their aromas and infuses the oil, creating the enticing scent that sets this soup apart.

Step 3: Simmer the Chicken

Nestle your chicken breasts or thighs gently into the pot and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, making sure the meat is fully submerged. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the simmering broth, which is now richly infused with vegetable and herb flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles

Add the wide egg noodles directly into the pot and simmer until they are tender, usually about 6 to 8 minutes. The noodles absorb some broth, becoming wonderfully soft but still with a slight bite that makes every spoonful satisfying.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in freshly chopped parsley and, if you like, a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup, adjust salt and pepper if needed, and be sure to remove the bay leaves before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh dill, extra thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes transforms your soup into a feast for the eyes and taste buds. These garnishes add freshness and a little zing that make each bowl uniquely delicious.

Side Dishes

This soup shines beautifully alongside crusty artisan bread or warm garlic toast for dipping. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can complete the meal without overpowering the comforting flavors of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a swirl of crème fraîche or a dollop of pesto on top. Alternatively, pack it in thermos containers for a nourishing lunch at work or school that feels like a home-cooked hug.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3 to 4 days to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles to avoid sogginess; you can add fresh noodles when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Gently reheat soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. If you froze the soup noodles separately, cook fresh noodles and stir them in just before serving to keep everything perfectly tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice because they tend to be juicier and add more richness to your broth, resulting in an even more flavorful Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.

What can I do if I don’t have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme works perfectly as a substitute. Use half the amount of dried thyme as you would fresh since it’s more concentrated. It still lends that lovely herbal aroma the recipe calls for.

Is it better to cook the noodles separately?

If you plan on storing leftovers, cooking the noodles separately is wise. This prevents them from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy when reheated, keeping that satisfying noodle texture intact.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can! Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead. While it won’t be a traditional Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup anymore, it will still be comforting and delicious.

What’s the secret to a clear, flavorful broth?

Simmering gently and not boiling vigorously helps keep your broth clear. Using low-sodium broth also allows you to control the seasoning as the chicken and veggies slowly release their flavors.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have every step and tip to make your own Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, I can’t wait for you to whip up a batch of this cozy classic. It’s not just a dish — it’s a warm, delicious way to bring comfort and joy to your table anytime. Go ahead, dive in, and savor every spoonful!