Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups egg noodles; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Dishes

When the weather gets chilly, I crave a warm bowl of hearty chicken noodle soup. This recipe is my go-to for not just comfort, but also for bringing the family together. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and noodles that soak up all the wonderful flavors, this dish is always a hit at my dinner table. I love that it's an easy, one-pot meal that I can whip up in under an hour. It's nourishing enough to lift spirits and fill bellies, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:50:29.422Z

One chilly evening, I decided to make my version of hearty chicken noodle soup. I challenged myself to use only what I had in my pantry and fridge. The result was a deeply flavorful broth enriched with herbs and spices, complemented by satisfying chunks of chicken and vibrant vegetables. What surprised me was how just a touch of lemon juice at the end brightened the entire dish.

I learned that the key to a great soup is to sauté the vegetables before adding the chicken stock. This step caramelizes the sugars in the veggies, creating a sweet underlying flavor that elevates the entire broth. It's a simple technique that makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup
Rich, savory flavors that warm you from the inside out
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and noodles
Perfect for leftovers - it tastes even better the next day

Creating the Perfect Broth

The base of any great chicken noodle soup is the broth. I recommend using high-quality chicken broth for depth of flavor. Store-bought versions can vary, so it's worth trying a few brands to find your favorite. Alternatively, homemade broth can be made by simmering chicken bones with aromatics like carrot, onion, and celery for a couple of hours. The longer you simmer, the richer your broth will be, and it will add a lovely gelatinous texture to your soup.

To enhance the broth further, consider adding a bay leaf or a splash of lemon juice while simmering. The acidity from the lemon brightens the flavors and balances the richness. If using homemade broth, strain out the solids before adding it to the pot; this ensures a smoother consistency. Remember to taste the broth before adding the noodles, so you can adjust seasoning as needed.

Noodle Nuances

Choosing the right type of noodle can significantly affect your soup’s overall texture. I prefer egg noodles for their sturdy yet tender bite, which holds up well during cooking. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute with brown rice noodles or even zucchini noodles if you're feeling adventurous. Just keep in mind that these alternatives might cook differently, requiring adjustments to the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

When adding noodles, stir frequently to prevent them from sticking together. If the soup thickens too much after refrigerating, simply add warm water or broth to loosen it up before serving. This way, your hearty and satisfying soup remains the perfect consistency, even the next day.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This chicken noodle soup makes for an excellent meal prep option. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you wish to freeze it, ensure the noodles are cooked al dente; they will soften further upon reheating. Freeze in portioned containers, making it easy to reheat only what you need. The soup can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months, but remember to leave some space in the container as the soup expands when frozen.

When reheating, do it gently over medium heat on the stove to prevent the noodles from breaking apart. If the soup seems too thick after storage, swirling in a little additional broth or water while it heats will restore its original comforting consistency. Always taste and re-season as needed before serving, as flavors can mellow during storage.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup

Soup Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups egg noodles
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and oregano, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the shredded chicken and reduce the heat to a simmer, cooking for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce. Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and freezes well too.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself short on specific vegetables, don't worry! This recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. You can easily substitute the carrots and celery with other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or peas. For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños. If you're aiming for a lighter dish, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breast meat will result in a richer flavor, thanks to the extra fat content.

Additionally, for a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken with chickpeas or tempeh for protein and use vegetable broth as your base. You can still use the same herbs and spices to maintain the beloved flavor profile of chicken noodle soup!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your hearty chicken noodle soup with crusty bread or homemade rolls for a satisfying meal. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can elevate the flavors even further, adding brightness to each bowl. If you're a fan of garnishes, consider offering a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to add as they please.

Pairing your soup with a simple green salad or a side of fresh fruit can round out the meal nicely, making it both nourishing and delicious. This soup can also be enjoyed as a starter course before a larger main dish on special family occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to add flavor without extra cooking time.

→ What noodles can I use instead of egg noodles?

You can substitute with whole wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even spiralized vegetables for a low-carb option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

→ Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, simply add all ingredients except the noodles to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.