Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles

There is something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles. This timeless recipe combines tender chicken, delicate egg noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth filled with fresh vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re chasing away a cold or simply craving a comforting meal, this soup delivers both nourishment and heartwarming satisfaction in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: The combination of savory chicken and silky egg noodles creates a classic that feels like a warm hug.
• Simple, wholesome ingredients: This soup uses everyday pantry staples that come together to form a rich, hearty dish.
• Perfect for any season: Light enough for spring yet soothing when it’s chilly, it’s a versatile meal all year long.
• Family-friendly: Mild flavors and tender textures make it a favorite that appeals to all ages.
• Easy to customize: Adapt the recipe effortlessly based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a memorable Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles. Each item plays its part to build layers of flavor, balance texture, and create an inviting color palette that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

• Chicken: Use bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for moist, tender meat with added flavor.
• Egg noodles: Choose fresh or dried egg noodles for their rich texture and ability to soak up the broth.
• Carrots and celery: These vegetables provide sweetness and crunch while enhancing the aroma of the soup.
• Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that build a savory foundation for the broth.
• Chicken broth: A good-quality broth or homemade stock intensifies flavor and adds depth.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley and thyme brighten the soup with herbal notes and freshness.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of all ingredients.

Variations for Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to personalize your soup based on dietary needs, pantry availability, or personal taste. Explore these ideas to make it your own!

• Vegetable boost: Add zucchini, peas, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
• Gluten-free option: Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized veggies.
• Spicy twist: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Slow cooker method: Assemble all ingredients in a slow cooker for a hands-off dinner.
• Brown rice noodles: Substitute for a different texture and flavor profile without losing comfort.

How to Make Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Start by finely chopping onions, slicing carrots, and dicing celery. These vegetables form the flavor base and add a pleasant texture to your soup.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

In a large pot, add a splash of oil and gently cook your chicken breasts or thighs until golden but not fully cooked, then remove and set aside for shredding.

Step 3: Sauté aromatics and veggies

Using the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant, then add carrots and celery and cook until tender to build natural sweetness.

Step 4: Add broth and herbs

Pour in the chicken broth and toss in fresh thyme and parsley stems. Bring everything to a gentle boil to release rich flavors.

Step 5: Simmer and shred chicken

Return the chicken to the pot and let soak in the broth as it simmers until fully cooked, then remove and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Cook the egg noodles

Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook until just tender, then stir in the shredded chicken for a unified, hearty dish.

Step 7: Final seasoning

Season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and if desired, a bit more fresh parsley before serving to brighten the flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles

• Use homemade stock: Whenever possible, homemade chicken stock adds unbeatable depth and richness.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy later.
• Shred the chicken finely: Smaller pieces meld better into the soup and distribute flavor evenly.
• Layer flavors: Sauté aromatics before adding liquids to maximize your broth’s complexity.
• Add fresh herbs last: Adding parsley or thyme at the end keeps their flavors vibrant and fresh.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles

Garnishes

Top your bowl with freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to elevate the flavor and add a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

Pair with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls to create a cozy, inviting presentation that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum freshness.

Freezing

Freeze soup in portions before adding noodles, as they tend to soften too much during freezing and thawing. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth or water if the soup becomes too thick, to restore its perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, adding flavor and saving time when preparing Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles.

What type of egg noodles works best?

Wide, flat egg noodles hold up well in soup and provide the ideal balance of chewiness and softness; fresh or dried both work fine.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Add noodles towards the end of cooking and cook just until tender, or cook separately and combine just before serving for the best texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and add tofu or chickpeas for protein to create a delicious vegetarian twist.

Is it better to boil or simmer the soup?

Simmering gently allows flavors to meld without toughening the chicken or breaking down the noodles, resulting in a cleaner taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles is more than just a meal—it’s a timeless comfort that warms the heart and delights the senses. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it holds such a beloved place in kitchens everywhere. Gather the ingredients, take your time layering flavors, and enjoy every nourishing spoonful of this cozy classic.

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