Nothing beats the comforting warmth of a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, especially when the aroma of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles fills your kitchen. This classic recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings, rainy days, or whenever you need a little culinary TLC.
Whether you’re fighting a cold or simply craving something wholesome, this soup delivers flavor, heartiness, and nostalgia in every spoonful. Save this pin for recipe—you’ll want it handy the next time you crave the ultimate comfort food!
Made with juicy chicken, tender carrots, celery, and soft, silky egg noodles, this soup comes together effortlessly while still feeling like a special homemade treat. The secret lies in simmering the chicken to create a rich, golden broth that perfectly complements the noodles and veggies. You can make a big batch, refrigerate it for later, or even freeze portions for quick, satisfying meals anytime.
Whether you’re a soup novice or a seasoned cook, this homemade chicken noodle soup is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Cozy, nourishing, and endlessly comforting, it’s the recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles
Description
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles is a comforting classic that warms the soul.
Tender pieces of chicken simmer in a rich, flavorful broth infused with aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Soft, chewy egg noodles soak up the savory goodness, creating the perfect balance of hearty and light.
Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add a fragrant finish, making every spoonful a taste of home. Ideal for chilly evenings, sick days, or cozy family dinners, this soup is simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. Quick, nourishing, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Introduce the aromatic trio: finely diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. This classic mirepoix is the soul of any great soup. Gently cook these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes transparent and the carrots and celery begin to soften, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. This initial sautéing step is crucial; it releases the natural sugars and essential oils, setting a deep, fragrant base for the entire recipe.
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Next, pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Season the liquid with a few sprigs of thyme, a couple of bay leaves, and your initial measure of salt and pepper. Allow this medley to gently bubble for about 15 minutes; this is the time when the vegetables fully tenderize and all the flavors marry perfectly.
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Now, stir in your shredded cooked chicken. If you're utilizing convenient rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken, it simply needs a few moments in the hot broth to warm through. If you prefer to start from scratch, you would have already simmered raw chicken pieces (breasts or thighs) earlier in the broth. Once cooked, remove them, shred them with a fork, and return the tender, flavor-infused meat to the pot.
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Introduce the egg noodles directly into the simmering soup. Cook them according to the timing specified on their packaging, typically between 6 to 8 minutes. Monitor the noodles closely to prevent them from becoming waterlogged or mushy. Pro tip for leftovers: If you anticipate having soup for another day, cook the noodles separately and add them to each serving bowl instead of the main pot. This keeps them perfectly al dente and prevents them from soaking up all your delicious broth.
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Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaves and stir in a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately in warm bowls, ideally alongside crusty bread or savory crackers.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 220kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Saturated Fat 2.5g13%
- Cholesterol 70mg24%
- Sodium 900mg38%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles – Tips & Serving Tricks
There are few dishes more comforting than a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. The aroma of simmering broth, tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft egg noodles brings instant warmth to the kitchen. While it may seem simple, the best chicken noodle soup is built on small details that elevate flavor and texture. Here are some tried-and-true tips, along with clever serving tricks, to make your soup truly memorable.
1. Build a Flavorful Base
The foundation of chicken noodle soup lies in the broth. Start with bone-in chicken if possible, as it provides both depth of flavor and natural richness from the bones. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of butter or olive oil before adding the chicken. This step, known as sweating the vegetables, enhances their sweetness and creates a savory base. A few garlic cloves, bay leaves, thyme, or even a sprig of rosemary can add layers of aroma. If time allows, let the soup simmer low and slow for an hour to extract maximum flavor.
2. Choose the Right Chicken
Both white and dark meat have their place in chicken noodle soup. Breasts are lean and cook quickly, while thighs provide juiciness and flavor. A combination of both works wonderfully. If you use a whole chicken or bone-in pieces, shred the meat after simmering and return it to the pot just before serving. This ensures the chicken stays tender rather than stringy.
3. Egg Noodles Make the Difference
Egg noodles are classic in chicken noodle soup for their chewy texture and rich flavor. To prevent them from becoming mushy, cook the noodles separately in salted water until just al dente, then add them to the soup at the very end. This trick keeps the broth clear and the noodles pleasantly firm. If storing leftovers, keep noodles and broth separate to avoid sogginess.
4. Balance Seasoning Carefully
Homemade broth often needs a good seasoning boost. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper toward the end of cooking, since noodles and chicken absorb a lot of flavor. A splash of lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar can brighten the soup without overpowering it. For an extra touch of richness, stir in a small pat of butter just before serving.
5. Add Vegetables with Care
Classic vegetables include carrots, celery, and onion, but you can customize. Green beans, peas, zucchini, or even corn can add color and sweetness. Add sturdier vegetables earlier in the cooking process, while delicate ones should be stirred in just before serving to keep them vibrant.
6. Make It Ahead
Chicken noodle soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. If preparing ahead, store the soup without noodles and add freshly cooked egg noodles before serving. The broth can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to three months—ideal for busy nights or when someone in the house needs a cozy, healing bowl of comfort.
Serving Tricks to Elevate Your Soup
- Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley, dill, or chives over the soup just before serving for a pop of freshness.
- Bread Pairing: Serve with warm crusty bread, garlic knots, or even homemade biscuits for dipping.
- Custom Toppings Bar: Set out small bowls of toppings like grated Parmesan, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of chili oil so guests can customize their bowls.
- Rustic Presentation: Ladle soup into wide, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful vegetables and noodles.
- Hearty Upgrade: Stir in a spoonful of cooked barley, quinoa, or wild rice alongside the noodles for a heartier twist.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Homemade Stock: If you have time, simmer chicken bones with onion, celery, and carrots to create a rich, golden broth. It elevates the soup dramatically.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Egg noodles soften quickly, so watch them closely. For meal prep, keep them separate until ready to serve.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in peas, corn, spinach, or zucchini for more nutrition.
- Herbs Make a Difference: Fresh thyme, dill, or parsley can brighten the soup and balance the richness.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end for a velvety variation.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Swap egg noodles for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for gentle heat.
- Hearty Version: Include diced potatoes or beans for extra bulk.
- Asian-Inspired: Replace thyme with ginger and soy sauce, then finish with a dash of sesame oil and green onions.
Storage and Reheating
Homemade chicken noodle soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze without the noodles (as they don’t freeze well) for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply thaw, warm on the stove, and cook fresh noodles separately before serving.
Final Thoughts
Homemade chicken noodle soup with egg noodles is more than just food — it’s comfort in a bowl. It’s a recipe that connects generations, a reminder of family kitchens, and a cure for both hunger and homesickness.
With simple, wholesome ingredients and an easy cooking process, you can make a nourishing meal that will warm both body and soul.
Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening, shared at a family gathering, or sipped slowly when you’re feeling under the weather, this classic dish never fails to deliver comfort.
Chicken noodle soup with egg noodles is more than just food—it’s a hug in a bowl. With careful attention to broth, the right balance of seasoning, and thoughtful serving touches, you can transform a simple soup into a memorable meal.
Whether you’re making it for a loved one under the weather, serving it as a cozy family dinner, or simply indulging in a bowl of nostalgia, this timeless soup will never disappoint.
