Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food that’s cherished for its soothing qualities and delicious, simple flavors.
This warm, hearty soup combines tender chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles in a flavorful broth that can cure not just hunger, but also the soul.
Whether you’re recovering from a cold, looking for a quick dinner, or simply craving a comforting meal, this classic recipe is a go-to favorite.
It’s a dish that evokes warmth and comfort, making it a perfect choice for cold days or when you need a little extra care.
Introduction
Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors—savory, hearty, and deeply comforting.
It features tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and egg noodles in a flavorful broth that is both nourishing and satisfying.
This recipe is not only a favorite in many households but also a traditional remedy for colds and sickness due to its wholesome ingredients.
The best part about making homemade chicken noodle soup is that it’s versatile: you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, making it as unique as you want while keeping the core comforting essence intact.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Chicken noodle soup has roots in various cultures, but it is particularly popular in American and European cuisine. It became widely known as a comforting, healing dish during times of illness, thanks to its nourishing ingredients.
While the exact origins are unclear, it’s believed that the combination of chicken, broth, and noodles gained prominence in Jewish and Eastern European cooking, with variations like “Jewish penicillin” being used as a remedy for colds.
In American culture, chicken noodle soup became a staple during the Great Depression as a cheap, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal.
Over time, it became a comfort food that transcended cultural boundaries, providing warmth and reassurance during tough times.
Today, it remains a beloved dish, often associated with family gatherings, illness recovery, and cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients and Quantity
For the Soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 4 bone-in chicken breasts
- 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or homemade broth)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Additions
- 1-2 cups chopped kale or spinach for added nutrition
- 1-2 medium potatoes, diced, for heartiness
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary for a more aromatic flavor
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh ginger for a subtle spice and warmth
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) for a touch of sweetness
- A squeeze of fresh lemon for added freshness
Tips for Success
- Use Bone-In Chicken: Using a whole chicken or bone-in chicken breasts will give you a richer broth. The bones add flavor and depth, making the soup more flavorful.
- Skim the Broth: As the chicken simmers, foam or impurities will rise to the surface. Skim these off for a clearer broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the noodles toward the end of cooking to avoid overcooking them. They can become mushy if left in the soup for too long.
- Season to Taste: Since homemade broths vary, make sure to taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking before serving.
- Shred the Chicken: After cooking the chicken, let it cool slightly before shredding it. This helps the chicken absorb more flavor from the broth.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together as it sits, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken and cover with 10 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Let the chicken simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until fully cooked and tender.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add thyme, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper, then stir.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the broth.
- Combine the Soup: Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the chicken and broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
Description
Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is a rich, aromatic soup that offers the ultimate in comfort.
The tender chicken, paired with soft vegetables and hearty noodles, comes together in a warm, flavorful broth.
The slow-simmering chicken gives the broth a deep, savory base, while the vegetables provide freshness and crunch. The egg noodles soak up the broth, making every bite satisfying.
This soup is the epitome of home-cooked nourishment and has a way of bringing warmth and calm to anyone who enjoys it.
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 8 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Vitamins and minerals: Rich in vitamin A (from carrots), vitamin C (from vegetables and broth), and calcium (from chicken broth).
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving sizes.
Conclusion
Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is a beloved dish that combines simplicity with satisfying flavors.
It’s the ultimate comfort food, ideal for cold weather, illness recovery, or just a cozy meal.
The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft noodles come together perfectly in a dish that’s as nutritious as it is comforting.
Whether you make it from scratch or modify it to suit your preferences, this classic recipe will never go out of style.
Recommendation and Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While traditional chicken noodle soup is already a nourishing option, there are several ways to make it even healthier.
Consider using whole-grain or gluten-free noodles for a boost in fiber or adding more vegetables for added vitamins and minerals.
For a lighter version, you can remove some of the skin from the chicken or use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken.
Additionally, reducing the amount of salt or opting for low-sodium broth can make the soup a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
Embrace healthful indulgence by enjoying this classic soup with nutritious, wholesome ingredients that contribute to both your health and your sense of well-being.