Dive into the soothing warmth of Chicken Noodle Soup, a timeless comfort dish that has nourished souls and uplifted spirits across generations. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth infused with herbs. Each spoonful offers a taste of home, promising both comfort and healing in every bowl. Ideal for chilly days, recuperating moments, or whenever you crave a touch of warmth, Chicken Noodle Soup is a testament to the simple joys of cooking and caring.
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Place the chicken breasts in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, until al dente.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a richer broth, you can use a combination of chicken thighs and breasts.
- Homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor of the soup significantly.
- The soup can be made in advance and refrigerated. It may thicken when cooled; add a little water or broth when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or potatoes according to your preference.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles or substitute rice for a gluten-free version of this classic soup.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, chicken noodle soup can be frozen without the noodles. Freeze the soup after cooking, then add freshly cooked noodles when reheating to avoid mushy noodles.
Let the Chicken Noodle Soup envelop you in its comforting embrace, a bowl filled with the essence of care and the warmth of home. Whether it's shared among loved ones or enjoyed in a quiet moment of solace, this soup is a reminder of the healing power of simple, lovingly prepared food. Here’s to the timeless comfort it brings, spoonful after heartwarming spoonful.