If you’re craving the ultimate cozy meal, this Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need to warm your heart and soul. Loaded with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and perfectly tender noodles swimming in a flavorful broth, this soup balances simplicity and depth in every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day or a pick-me-up when you’re under the weather — truly a classic made better with a few tasty touches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this soup plays a huge role, from creating the rich broth to adding texture and color that makes each bite exciting. The ingredients are straightforward but come together beautifully to create that unforgettable homemade taste.
- Butter (1/2 Tablespoon): Adds a silky richness that gently sautés the veggies to start the flavor base.
- Celery (2 ribs, diced): Brings a fresh, subtle crunch and signature aroma to the soup.
- Carrots (3-4 large, diced): Add sweetness and vibrant orange color for both texture and eye appeal.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses the broth with inviting warmth and depth of flavor.
- Chicken stock or broth (10 cups): The heart of the soup, providing a savory, comforting liquid base.
- Salt (1 teaspoon, to taste): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Freshly ground black pepper (½ teaspoon, to taste): Adds a subtle spicy kick and balance.
- Dried rosemary (1/8 teaspoon): Offers a fragrant, pine-like note to elevate the broth.
- Dried thyme (1/8 teaspoon): Adds an earthy complexity with a hint of minty brightness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/8 teaspoon): Just enough to liven the soup with gentle heat.
- Homemade egg noodles or pasta (1 batch or 4 cups dry): Perfect for soaking up the broth and adding satisfying bite.
- Rotisserie chicken (3 cups): Tender, shredded chicken that makes the soup hearty and rich.
- Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor (1 teaspoon): Boosts the chicken essence, making the soup taste as homemade and full-bodied as possible.
How to Make Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, sauté the diced celery and carrots until they just begin to soften—about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because gently cooking the vegetables unlocks their natural sweetness and builds a rich foundation of flavors for your soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. This quick step releases the aromas and ensures those herbs and spices blend fully into the soup.
Step 3: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Pour in the 10 cups of chicken stock or broth, making sure all the veggies are submerged. Increase the heat and bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering time lets the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the broth clear and delicious.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Chicken
Season the broth with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor. Stir well and taste, adjusting seasoning as needed. Then add the shredded rotisserie chicken so it can warm through and absorb some of the herbal broth flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles Separately
While your soup simmers, cook the egg noodles or your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Cooking noodles separately prevents them from becoming mushy once added to the soup. Once done, drain and set aside.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Finally, stir the cooked noodles into the soup just before serving. Give everything one last gentle stir to unite all those comforting ingredients, and you’re ready to dig in to a bowl full of joy!
How to Serve Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup by topping it with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a lovely touch of acidity. Consider some cracked black pepper on top for an added kick.
Side Dishes
Pair your soup with crusty bread or warm garlic toast to sop up every last drop of that delicious broth. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can complement the meal with freshness and contrast in texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming touch that impresses guests without fuss. For a lighter twist, serve the soup as a broth-only appetizer alongside mini grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the noodles soak up broth over time, it’s best to keep them separate if you expect leftovers.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you keep the noodles out. Freeze the broth, veggies, and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before adding freshly cooked noodles.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm. Add cooked noodles just before serving to keep their texture perfect and the soup fresh tasting.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, you can use leftover roasted chicken or poach chicken breasts or thighs yourself. Just shred or dice the chicken before adding it to the soup.
Is it okay to substitute other pasta shapes?
Of course! Egg noodles are traditional, but small pastas like farfalle or small shells work beautifully in this soup, holding the broth wonderfully and providing a great texture.
Can this soup be made vegetarian?
You can modify it by using vegetable broth and replacing chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu. The seasoning and veggies will still create that cozy soup vibe.
What’s the best way to thicken this soup if I want it heartier?
If you prefer a thicker broth, whisk a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with some cold water and stir it in during the simmering stage, letting it cook a few minutes to thicken up nicely.
How do I keep the noodles from getting mushy if I want leftovers?
Cooking noodles separately and adding them right before serving is key. This way, the noodles won’t soak up all the broth and turn mushy when stored in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe truly belongs in every kitchen arsenal — it’s simple, satisfying, and made with love. Whether you’re easing into a chilly evening or treating yourself after a long day, this soup never fails to deliver warmth and happiness in a bowl. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you do eating it!
Print
Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Comforting Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a warm, hearty classic that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal. Featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful homemade or dry egg noodles simmered in a savory chicken broth, this recipe yields 8 generous servings of soothing, delicious soup that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1/2 Tablespoon butter
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3–4 large carrots, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 10 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary (or more, to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Noodles
- 1 batch homemade egg noodles or 4 cups dry egg noodles, farfalle, or other bite-sized pasta
Chicken
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor (or more, as needed), or chicken bouillon granules
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced celery, carrots, and minced garlic, cooking until they begin to soften and release their aromas, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the 10 cups of chicken stock or broth. Stir in the salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld and the vegetables soften perfectly.
- Cook the Noodles: If using dry noodles like egg noodles or farfalle, add them directly to the simmering soup and cook until tender, usually about 6-8 minutes depending on the noodle type. If using homemade egg noodles, cook separately according to your recipe and drain before adding to the soup.
- Add Chicken and Bouillon: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor or chicken bouillon granules. Allow the soup to heat through for another 3-5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is warmed and the bouillon is well incorporated for robust flavor.
- Final Adjustments and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired for an added touch of freshness.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought broth.
- Homemade egg noodles add a delightful texture but dry noodles are a convenient and equally tasty alternative.
- You can add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
- Adjust the seasoning and spices to suit your taste, especially when using store-bought broth which can vary in saltiness.
