There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s a dish that conjures up memories of cozy family dinners and offers a sense of warmth and well-being.
This classic soup, known for its soothing properties, has been a staple in many cultures and households for generations. In this recipe, we bring you a quick and easy version of this beloved dish, perfect for those busy days when time is of the essence but comfort is still a priority.
Chicken noodle soup has a rich history, tracing back to ancient times. It’s a dish that has evolved over centuries, adapting to various cultures and culinary traditions.
Originally, it was a simple broth, but over time, it has transformed into the hearty, nourishing meal we know today. This soup has become synonymous with comfort and healing, often being the go-to remedy for colds and flu.
Nutritions:
Not only is chicken noodle soup delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
The broth, rich in minerals, helps in hydration and nourishment. Vegetables like carrots and celery add essential vitamins and minerals, making this soup a balanced and nutritious meal.
This comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a look at the nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 6925 IU
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 43mg
- Iron: 1mg
This nutritional profile makes it a wholesome choice, providing essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this soup as part of a balanced diet, and savor the flavors and health benefits it brings to your table.
Ingredients:
In this recipe, we use simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and comforting soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2, cooked and shredded): The protein star of the dish, offering tenderness and flavor.
- Chicken Broth (8 cups): Forms the base of the soup, adding depth and richness.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing, it brings out the flavors of the vegetables.
- Celery Stalks (4, chopped): Adds a slight crunch and freshness to the soup.
- Whole Carrots (4, chopped): Brings sweetness and a host of vitamins.
- Onion (1/2, diced): A key aromatic that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Thyme (1/4 teaspoon): A hint of herbaceousness to complement the chicken.
- Minced Garlic (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): To taste, balancing and enhancing the flavors.
- Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a slight heat and complexity.
- Bay Leaves (2): Infuses the soup with a unique, aromatic flavor.
- Egg Noodles (1 cup): Adds heartiness and texture to the soup.
- Water (2 cups): Helps in adjusting the consistency of the soup.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this soup. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the wholesome goodness of its ingredients.
Stay tuned as we dive into the heart of the recipe – the step-by-step cooking instructions, where we bring these ingredients to life.
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the heart of cooking this delightful soup. The process is straightforward but each step is crucial in ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
A Step-by-Step Cooking Guide:
- Start with the Base: In a large stockpot, drizzle the olive oil and warm it over medium heat. This is where we’ll build the flavor foundation.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-8 minutes until they begin to soften. The key here is to cook them just enough to release their flavors without browning them.
- Infuse with Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it. You want it fragrant, not scorched.
- Add the Chicken and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, add the cooked and shredded chicken, and then the water. The chicken broth is the soul of your soup, so make sure it’s of good quality.
- Seasoning the Soup: Now, add the thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. These seasonings are simple but they bring out the rich, comforting flavors of the soup.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring your soup to a gentle boil. This process helps in marrying the flavors together.
- Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer. Allow the vegetables to cook through and the chicken to become perfectly tender. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Add the Noodles: Now, it’s time for the egg noodles. Add them to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are al dente. The noodles should be tender but still have a bit of bite.
- Final Touches: Once the noodles are cooked, remove the bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remember, the flavors should be balanced, not overpowering.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This is the moment when all your efforts come together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Cooking Tips:
- Enhancing Flavor: If you want a deeper flavor, consider roasting the chicken before shredding it. Roasting can add a subtle smokiness and richness to the soup.
- Vegetable Consistency: If you prefer your vegetables to be softer, let them sauté for a couple of extra minutes before adding the broth.
- Noodle Tips: Be careful not to overcook the noodles as they continue to soften in the hot broth even after you turn off the heat.
- Herb Variations: While thyme is recommended, feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Remember, the beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the love you put into it. Each ingredient and step adds its unique touch to create a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup that’s not just food, but a warm hug in a bowl.
With your chicken noodle soup now simmering with flavor and warmth, let’s explore the best ways to serve, store, and savor this comforting dish.
Serving:
Garnishing for Extra Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a sprig of thyme can add a pop of color and freshness to your soup.
Accompaniments: Serve your chicken noodle soup with a side of crusty bread, like homemade Hawaiian rolls or a slice of sourdough, perfect for dipping into the broth.
Portioning: Serve the soup in pre-warmed bowls to keep it hot longer, ensuring a comforting eating experience from start to finish.
Storing and Reheating:
Refrigeration: If you have leftovers or prefer to prepare your soup in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Noodle Note: If you plan to store the soup, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual servings.
This prevents the noodles from absorbing too much broth and becoming soggy.
Freezing Instructions: Chicken noodle soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, for best texture, freeze the soup without the noodles and add fresh ones when reheating.
Thawing and Reheating: Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Add fresh noodles during the reheating process for the best texture.
Pairing with Other Dishes:
Creating a Meal: Pair your chicken noodle soup with a light salad for a complete meal. The crispness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the soup.
For Heavier Meals: If you’re serving the soup as a starter, consider following it with a heartier main dish, like a roasted chicken or a vegetable casserole.
This 20-minute homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is more than just a quick meal option; it’s a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome cooking.
It proves that with a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s not only satisfying and nutritious but also packed with the comforting flavors of home.
With this recipe in your repertoire, you’re never far from a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delightful experience of sharing this heartwarming soup with your loved ones.
Let’s spread the joy of simple, delicious cooking!