HOMESTYLE CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. 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

1. Bring to a Boil
   Raise the heat slightly and bring the soup back to a low boil.
2. 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

1. 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.
2. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Customize the Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta or even rice for a gluten-free option.
4. 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!