If you have ever craved a warm, soothing bowl that feels like a hug from the inside, then you are in for a treat. This is The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe, a heartwarming classic that marries simple ingredients into something truly magical. It’s packed with tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles swimming in a rich broth seasoned just right. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to indulge in some cozy goodness, this soup is your go-to for pure comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role. They come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this recipe stand out. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic warmth that complements the veggies and chicken.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color to the pot.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Add a lovely crunch and subtle herbaceous note.
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium): The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled): The hearty protein star of the dish, tender and comforting.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the soup with earthy, slightly floral undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the thyme with a soft, peppery flavor.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
- 2 cups egg noodles: Soft and chewy, they soak up the broth and provide satisfying texture.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, vibrant finish that brightens the flavors.
How to Make The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Let them gently sauté for about 5–6 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step is where the flavor foundation builds—each vegetable releasing its sweetness and aroma to make your broth irresistible.
Step 2: Add Chicken Broth and Bring to a Boil
Next, pour the chicken broth into the pot with your beautifully softened vegetables. Crank up the heat and bring everything to a rolling boil. This will warm up the broth and start infusing all those wonderful veggie flavors into the liquid, setting the stage for your comforting soup base.
Step 3: Season and Add Shredded Chicken
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper at this stage. Give everything a good stir to marry the flavors. Then, add in the shredded cooked chicken. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the soup cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making sure every spoonful is packed with cozy goodness.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles
Now it’s time to add the egg noodles. Stir them into the simmering broth and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they reach that perfect tender-but-not-mushy texture. The noodles soak up the savory broth, making the soup extra hearty and satisfying.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Add Fresh Parsley
Give your soup a taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Just before serving, toss in the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the entire dish.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. You can add crusty bread or your favorite crackers on the side for dipping and extra comfort. This step completes the experience, making every spoonful feel like a warm embrace.
How to Serve The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe
Garnishes
While the soup is delicious on its own, adding fresh parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper just before serving really elevates it. You could also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright twist or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat. Garnishes are a simple way to personalize your comforting bowl.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread, soft dinner rolls, or buttery crackers that can be dunked into the broth. A light side salad with tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness, or some roasted vegetables can round out the meal into a wholesome feast that makes everyone happy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party or special family meal, consider serving this soup in charming individual soup crocks or hollowed-out bread bowls. You can also garnish each bowl uniquely with finely chopped herbs, a drizzle of chili oil, or grated Parmesan for a touch of elegance and fun presentation. These little details can turn a humble classic into a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as the noodles absorb more broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to get that perfect consistency back.
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is a great option, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles to avoid mushiness. Keep the broth and chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add freshly cooked noodles before serving.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of broth or water to loosen it up. Add cooked noodles at this time if you froze the soup without them, so everything tastes freshly made and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and provide that lovely texture, you can swap in other types like fettuccine, spaghetti broken into smaller pieces, or even gluten-free pasta depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it necessary to use cooked chicken?
Using pre-cooked chicken speeds up the process, but you can also cook raw chicken directly in the broth. Just add it early in the simmering step and make sure it’s fully cooked before adding noodles.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To keep the comforting essence but go vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add extra veggies or beans for protein and hearty satisfaction.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Fresh parsley adds a lovely brightness, but it’s not mandatory. You can skip it or use dried parsley instead, adding it earlier in the cooking process so its flavor has time to develop.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a little kick, try stirring in crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or cayenne pepper when you add your herbs and seasoning. Start small and adjust to taste for just the right level of warmth.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a chilly evening or a day when you need something soothing, The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe delivers that cozy, nourishing feeling perfectly. It’s a timeless classic that’s easy to make but feels like a special treat with every bite. So grab your pot, gather those simple ingredients, and dive into something truly comforting that will warm your heart and soul.
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The Best Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Pure Comfort Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup recipe combines tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a flavorful medley of vegetables simmered in a savory chicken broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, nourishing meal, this soup comes together in just 35 minutes and serves six.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
Protein and Seasonings
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta and Garnish
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, preparing the base of your soup.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the shredded cooked chicken, then reduce the heat so the soup simmers. Let it cook gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and let them cook for 8–10 minutes, or until tender according to package instructions.
- Adjust and Garnish: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if necessary. Stir in the fresh parsley right before serving to add a bright, fresh note.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and customize seasoning.
- Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe, but homemade boiled chicken works just as well.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables.
- Adding fresh parsley at the end enhances color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
