Do you need a comforting and healthy meal that is easy to prepare? Look no further than this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe! Not only is it a classic comfort food, but it is also packed with nutritious ingredients that your body will thank you for.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
- Add carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add bay leaf, dried thyme, chicken broth and water.
- Add chicken breasts and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the pot and shred it into small pieces.
- Add egg noodles to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
- Add shredded chicken back into the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations
- Vegetarian: omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to make the soup more filling.
- Vegan: follow the vegetarian version and replace the egg noodles with rice noodles or quinoa.
- Gluten-free: replace the egg noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
- Spicy: add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Creamy: stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
No matter how you choose to make this soup, it will always be a comforting and healthy meal that you can enjoy any day of the week.
FAQ
Can I use a whole chicken instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use a whole chicken instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before adding the meat to the soup.
Can I use egg noodles instead of regular noodles?
Yes, you can use egg noodles instead of regular noodles. In fact, egg noodles are a traditional choice for chicken noodle soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or in the freezer for up to three months.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use store-bought chicken broth instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken broth instead of making your own. However, homemade broth will give the soup a richer flavor.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat instead of chicken, such as turkey or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make the soup less salty?
If the soup is too salty, you can add more water or unsalted chicken broth to dilute the saltiness.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can use a different type of noodle, such as rice noodles or udon noodles. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make this soup. Just follow the recipe instructions and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
How long will the soup keep in the refrigerator?
The soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, but it should be reheated before eating.
