Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth that brings homemade goodness to your table. Simple yet bursting with flavor, this soup promises to be a family favorite you’ll return to again and again, especially when you want to feel cozy and nourished.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great soup starts with the right ingredients, and this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is no exception. Each element brings texture, flavor, or color that comes together to create that classic soup experience we all adore.

• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps sauté vegetables to perfection.
• 1 cup celery, diced: Offers a subtle crunch and classic soup aroma.
• 1 ½ cups carrots, diced: Brings sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, fragrant depth that elevates the broth.
• 8 cups homemade chicken stock (or store-bought broth): The flavorful backbone that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors in the soup.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle, peppery kick.
• ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary: Provides herbaceous warmth and an earthy note.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Complements chicken with its light, floral aroma.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Offers a subtle hint of spice for balance.
• 3 cups homemade egg noodles (or 8 ounces dry egg noodles, farfalle, or other bite-size pasta): Delivers tender, comforting bites that soak up every drop of broth.
• 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded: Keeps the soup hearty and protein-packed with minimal effort.
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste or 1 cube chicken bouillon (optional): Uplifts the soup’s savory depth for extra flavor punch.

How to Make Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. This buttery base will not only prevent sticking but also enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables as they cook.

Step 2: Soften Celery and Carrots

Add the diced celery and carrots. Sauté them gently for about 3 minutes until they become just tender. This softening step helps develop the soup’s flavor without losing their delightful texture and color.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. You’ll want to catch that perfect moment when the garlic releases its fragrance without browning, which keeps the flavor fresh and vibrant.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Next, pour in 8 cups of your homemade chicken stock or a high-quality store-bought option. This rich broth is essential for making the soup taste authentically comforting and well-rounded.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. These seasonings build layers of flavor, blending herbaceous, spicy, and savory notes that make the soup truly special.

Step 6: Adjust for Taste

Give the broth a quick taste and tweak the seasoning as you prefer. This step ensures the soup perfectly suits your personal palate before moving on.

Step 7: Optional Flavor Boost

For those who want an extra burst of richness, stir in 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon paste or a bouillon cube. It’s optional but highly recommended if you want that classic depth school-cafeteria soup memories are made of.

Step 8: Cook the Noodles

Bring the broth to a rolling boil, then add your choice of noodles—3 cups homemade egg noodles or about 8 ounces of dry pasta works beautifully. Cook them until al dente, which takes approximately 5-7 minutes for fresh noodles and 8-10 minutes for dry pasta.

Step 9: Remove from Heat and Add Chicken

Once the noodles are just right, immediately remove the pot from heat to prevent overcooking. Then stir in 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, which warms gently in the hot broth without becoming tough.

Step 10: Final Seasoning Check and Serve

Give your soup one last taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then ladle into bowls, and you’re ready to enjoy the comforting goodness of your homemade masterpiece.

How to Serve Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can transform this soup from cozy and comforting to an elevated experience. Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chopped chives adds a fresh, vibrant burst. For a tangy touch, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the whole bowl.

Side Dishes

Pair your Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dunking. A side salad with a light vinaigrette also balances the richness and provides some crispness, turning this meal into a full, satisfying feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic mugs for a fun, casual look or in elegant bowls when entertaining guests. You can also turn it into a heartier meal by adding extra vegetables or tossing in some greens like spinach just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to store the soup without noodles if you prefer them firmer later.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully if you want to save it for a later craving. Freeze it in portions without noodles to avoid mushiness. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and cooking fresh noodles.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat to prevent overcooking the chicken and vegetables. Add freshly cooked noodles at the end for the best texture. Avoid using the microwave to prevent uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this soup?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It saves time and adds a delicious, tender protein element to your soup.

What can I substitute for homemade egg noodles?

If homemade egg noodles aren’t on hand, dry egg noodles, farfalle, or other small-shaped pasta work just fine. Each type brings its own texture, so choose what you like best.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

While this recipe shines with chicken, you can easily swap chicken stock for vegetable stock and omit the chicken to create a comforting vegetarian version. Add extra vegetables or tofu for added protein.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Cook the noodles separately or add them just before serving to avoid mushiness. If you’re storing leftovers, keep the noodles separate and add fresh noodles when reheating.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by sautéing the veggies on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add seasonings, broth, and chicken, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add noodles toward the last 30 minutes to keep their texture perfect.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like a bowl of this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe to warm your heart and satisfy your soul. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and carries that nostalgic feeling of home-cooked comfort. Give it a try and watch this classic favorite quickly become your go-to meal for cozy days and tired evenings alike.

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