Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken
- Pour in chicken broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add chicken and seasonings: Stir in the cooked chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Add noodles: Once the soup is simmering, add the egg noodles.
- Simmer: Let the soup cook for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish: Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley if using.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
Tips and Variations
- Chicken options: You can use leftover roast chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poach chicken breasts specifically for this soup.
- Noodles: If you prefer a different type of noodle, feel free to substitute the egg noodles with another variety like pasta shells or rice noodles.
- Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb more broth as it sits, so you might need to add a bit more broth when reheating.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any time of the year. It’s easy to make, nourishing, and full of flavor, making it a great go-to meal for weeknights or whenever you’re in need of something warm and soothing.
Enjoy your homemade chicken and noodle soup!