- Heat the Oil or Butter
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. - Add the Vegetables
Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Sauté for an additional 5-6 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their aroma. - Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Garlic enhances the flavor of the soup with a rich, earthy undertone.
Step 2: Creating the Broth
- Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the fresh thyme sprigs (or dried thyme) and bay leaf. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. - Add the Chicken
Gently place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the pot, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth. If using bone-in chicken, it will add an extra layer of flavor to the broth. - Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The broth will infuse with the chicken, vegetables, and herbs, creating a rich, savory base.
Step 3: Shredding the Chicken
- Remove the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. - Return the Chicken to the Soup
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring to combine. This step ensures each spoonful has tender, flavorful pieces of chicken.
Step 4: Adding the Noodles
- Bring to a Boil
Raise the heat slightly and bring the soup back to a low boil. - Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles (or pasta of choice) to the boiling soup. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they’re tender but still firm. Be cautious not to overcook, as noodles will continue to soften in the hot broth.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Season to Taste
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and thyme if desired. For a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. - Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Add a Salad: Pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal, especially if you’re serving it as a dinner course.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you can, use bone-in chicken pieces. The bones add extra richness to the broth, which can be removed once the chicken is shredded.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Fresh thyme and parsley elevate the soup’s flavor. If using dried herbs, remember that a little goes a long way, so adjust to taste.
- Customize the Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta or even rice for a gluten-free option.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If you plan to store leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to each bowl when serving. This prevents the noodles from becoming too soft.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best results.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the soup, then cook fresh noodles to add to the reheated broth.
A Final Note on Homestyle Comfort
This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is as comforting as it is satisfying, filled with flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a versatile recipe you can adapt to your tastes and always delivers a delicious, hearty meal with each spoonful. Enjoy the warmth, richness, and the homemade goodness in every bite!