This comforting chicken noodle soup is packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and colorful vegetables. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🥣
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Perfect for a chilly day or when you need a little extra care.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is perfect for sautéing as it adds a mild flavor. You can swap it with butter or any other vegetable oil like canola if you’re looking for a change.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have time, but store-bought works just as well for convenience. If you’re looking for a vegan version, vegetable broth is a wonderful substitute.
Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken because it’s quick and adds great flavor. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to use chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but if you want a healthier option, whole grain or gluten-free noodles are excellent alternatives! Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables! Green beans, corn, or bell peppers work well if you want to mix things up.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
The key to a delicious chicken noodle soup is layering flavors. Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery, also known as mirepoix, to create a flavorful base.
- Heat your olive oil and always add the vegetables in this order: onions first, then carrots, and celery. This way, everything sautés evenly.
- Don’t rush the process! Let the aromatics cook for a few minutes to unlock their flavors.
- When you add the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot helps lift any bits stuck on the bottom, adding even more flavor.
- Season throughout the cooking process and not just at the end. This builds depth in flavor!
Following these tips will help ensure your chicken noodle soup is bursting with flavor every time!
Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup egg noodles or similar pasta
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken noodle soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 30 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become tender and fragrant.
2. Incorporate the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as it can become bitter!
3. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and give it a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil so everything starts to cook nicely together.
4. Simmer with Chicken and Thyme:
Once boiling, add the shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, and sprinkle in some salt and black pepper. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the soup gently simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully while the vegetables cook through.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the noodles! Stir in the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. This typically takes around 6-8 minutes until they’re perfectly tender.
6. Add the Peas:
Five minutes before finishing, toss in the frozen peas. They only need a little time to heat through, adding a nice pop of color and sweetness!
7. Final Touches:
Give your soup a taste. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is just right, it’s time to serve!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. Enjoy this warm, hearty bowl of comfort that’s sure to please!
This classic chicken noodle soup is a nourishing and fulfilling dish with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and comforting noodles, all simmered in a deliciously savory broth. Enjoy your homemade soup!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the meat from the chicken and add it to the soup during the simmering step. It adds excellent flavor and saves you cooking time!
Can I Make This Soup in Advance and Freeze It?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to refrigerate it first until it’s cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. The soup can last in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove!
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or make your own broth using water, adding some herbs and spices to infuse flavor. Just be aware this may alter the taste slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the soup with your favorites. Green beans, bell peppers, corn, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale can all make great additions. Just remember to adjust cooking times for any new veggies added!
