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Quick & Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Quick & Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Did you know that chicken noodle soup is scientifically proven to help relieve cold symptoms? According to research published in Chest Journal, the ingredients in chicken soup can reduce inflammation and ease congestion. But beyond the science, this soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and filled with delicious flavors. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and slurp-worthy noodles, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. Let’s get started!

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 5-6

Ingredients to use for making Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients

    • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into cubes)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons butter
    • 1 large onion (chopped)
    • 2 large carrots (chopped)
    • 2 stalks celery (chopped)
    • 5 cloves garlic (crushed)
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 9 cups chicken broth
    • 5 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/4 cup parsley or cilantro (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and add olive oil. Stir in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

2. Add the crushed garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Stir well and cook for 1 more minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

3. Place the chicken thighs into the pot, stirring to coat them with the flavors of the aromatics. Pour in the chicken brothand bring the soup to a simmer. Cover partially with a lid and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Boiling chicken and vegetables for Chicken Noodle Soup

4. Once the chicken is tender, add the egg noodles. Let them cook for 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of noodles used.

5. Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.

6. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Tips & Twists for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Simmer with a bay leaf and a Parmesan rind for extra depth. This enhances the broth, making it taste like the best chicken noodle soup recipe you’ve ever had!
  • Add diced potatoes or extra vegetables like zucchini. This is a great way to turn a simple soup into a hearty chunky chicken noodle soup packed with nutrition.
  • Shred leftover rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time. A rotisserie chicken noodle soup is perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food fast.
  • Use gluten-free pasta or swap the noodles for rice. If you're making a healthy chicken noodle soup, rice or gluten-free noodles are excellent choices.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a little heat. Love spice? Try a spicy chicken noodle soup by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce!
  • Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving. This small addition turns your dish into a creamy chicken noodle soup with a luxurious texture.
A mug of warm Chicken Noodle Soup for lunch.

Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup

Ever wondered, "Is chicken noodle soup healthy?" The answer is yes, and here’s why it’s great for you:

  1. Chicken is rich in zinc, while garlic and onions have antimicrobial properties, making chicken noodle soup a go-to remedy when you're feeling under the weather.
  2. The broth in chicken noodle soup replenishes fluids and electrolytes, making it a great choice when you're sick.
  3. Carrots, celery, and onions in this chicken noodle soup recipe add antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
  4. A warm bowl of chicken noodle soup is easy on the stomach, making it a great option when you're not feeling well.

Make Your Chicken Noodle Soup Today!

If there’s one thing that will always have a place in my kitchen, it’s a big, cozy bowl of chicken noodle soup. Not the kind from a can (though, hey, we’ve all been there), but the kind that makes your whole house smell like pure comfort. The kind that doesn’t ask for much—just some good broth, tender chicken, perfectly slurpable noodles, and a little love!

And sure, you could go all out and make your own stock, or you could keep things simple with a trusty rotisserie chicken and a store-bought broth that does the job just fine. You could add heavy cream and make it extra cozy, or toss in some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Either way, this homemade chicken noodle soup is here for you.

Kitchen Tools You Need

Want to make your homemade chicken noodle soup even easier? Check out these handy tools from Zulay Kitchen:

  • Garlic Press – Quickly mince garlic for maximum flavor.
  • Chopping Board & Knife Set – Make prepping ingredients for your chicken noodle soup recipe a breeze.
  • Soup Ladle – Serve perfect portions of your best chicken noodle soup recipe every time.

Did You Try This Recipe? Let Us Know!

We’d love to hear what you think about this chicken noodle soup recipe! Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Know someone who would love this recipe? Share it on social media and tag @zulay_kitchen using #kitchenhappiness!

A pot of freshly cooked Chicken Noodle Soup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Noodle Soup

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness, chicken breast works well, too. Just be mindful that chicken breast tends to cook faster and may dry out if overcooked. If using breast meat, consider shredding it at the end of cooking instead of cubing it for a more tender texture in your homemade chicken noodle soup.

How can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

To make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker, add all ingredients except the noodles. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken, add the noodles, and cook for another 15-20 minutes until the noodles are tender. This method works great for rotisserie chicken noodle soup since the meat is already cooked.

Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?

Yes! However, if you're making chicken noodle soup that can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it without the noodles to prevent them from getting mushy. 

How do I make this soup dairy-free?

This chicken noodle soup recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just be sure to use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the vegetables. For a creamy chicken noodle soup without dairy, try adding coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Swap 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley. The same goes for thyme—1/2 teaspoon dried thyme equals 1 teaspoon fresh thyme. Dried herbs work well in both healthy chicken noodle soup and spicy chicken noodle soup versions.

What’s the best pasta to use for chicken noodle soup?

Traditional egg noodles are the most common choice, but you can use orzo, rotini, fusilli, or even broken spaghetti. 

How can I make this soup more filling?

To make this chunky chicken noodle soup extra hearty, consider adding chopped potatoes, white beans, or extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Pair it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal.