This Chicken Noodle Soup is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor! Tender chicken, slurpy noodles, and colorful vegetables come together in a cozy broth that feels like a hug in a bowl.
On chilly days, this soup is my go-to. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and enjoy the comforting smell fill your kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil or butter: I love using olive oil for its healthy fats, but butter adds a yummy richness if you prefer. You can swap with avocado oil if you’re looking for a different flavor profile!
Onion: A medium onion adds a nice base flavor to the soup. If you’re in a pinch, try green onions or shallots. They’ll change the taste slightly but will still work well.
Carrots and celery: These two are classic soup veggies! If you don’t have them, try using bell peppers or frozen mixed vegetables. They can add color and nutrition too!
Chicken broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought is super convenient. Low-sodium options are great if you’re watching your salt intake.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu can be substituted for a protein boost!
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to use whole wheat, rice noodles, or even gluten-free varieties to fit dietary needs.
How Do I Make the Perfect Broth?
Crafting a flavorful broth is key to a great chicken noodle soup. Here’s how to ensure you get the most out of your broth:
- Use quality chicken broth as your base. If you make homemade broth, simmer bones with water for a few hours to extract richness.
- Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and garlic; browning them adds depth to the flavor.
- Always taste as you go. Adjust seasonings after adding the broth so you can achieve the taste you like.
These tips help you achieve a deliciously hearty broth that will make your soup extra comforting!
Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles or any pasta noodle of choice
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting chicken noodle soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Ingredients:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step builds a great base for your soup!
2. Add Vegetables:
Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. You’ll start to smell all those delicious aromas—yum!
3. Combine with Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, adding the bay leaf (if you’re using it), dried thyme, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and flavorful. This is where the magic happens!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the shredded cooked chicken and the noodles to the pot. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until the noodles are tender. Stir gently to combine everything!
6. Final Touches:
Remove the bay leaf (if you used one). Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your warm, hearty chicken noodle soup with vegetables!
Perfect for any time you’re craving something cozy and comforting!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save you time and are a convenient substitute. Just add them in the same way you would with fresh vegetables, and you might need to extend the cooking time by a few minutes until they are heated through.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What Should I Do If It’s Too Salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, you can add additional water or low-sodium chicken broth to dilute the saltiness. Alternatively, adding a potato can help absorb excess salt—just remove it before serving!
How to Store Leftovers Properly?
To store leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep the soup in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just be mindful that noodles may become softer upon reheating if frozen.
