Nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. This classic recipe blends savory flavors and wholesome ingredients to create a nourishing dish that evokes feelings of home. Whether on a chilly day or as a remedy for the common cold, this chicken noodle soup is your ultimate go-to meal that is simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Why We Love This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
There’s something about chicken noodle soup that just feels right. Its warm, savory broth and tender chicken create the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. You might love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to whip up, requiring minimal prep work while delivering maximum comfort. The use of rotisserie chicken takes the hassle out of cooking, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Plus, the combination of fragrant herbs like thyme and oregano elevates this soup from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients about Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
To create your delicious chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 4 cups of chicken broth: The base of your soup, offering rich flavor and nutrition.
- 2 cups of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded: This saves time and adds a depth of taste.
- 1 cup of egg noodles: For that classic chewy texture.
- 1 large potato, diced: Adds heartiness and fiber to the soup.
- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Brings a fragrant touch.
- 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano): Enhances the soup’s flavor profile.
- 1 cup of cream (heavy or light): Adds creaminess and richness for a luxurious finish.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
- Pepper, to taste: Adds a bit of heat to round out the dish.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Directions
Making your chicken noodle soup is a straightforward process filled with satisfying steps. Follow these easy directions:
- Start by preparing the base: In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and place the diced potatoes into the pot. Add fresh thyme and oregano to the mix for that aromatic essence. Over medium heat, bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate the noodles: Once the potatoes are soft, it’s time to add your egg noodles. Stir them into the pot and allow them to cook for 8-10 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them.
- Add the star ingredient: After the noodles are done, gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken. This will warm through for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the delicious broth.
- Make it creamy: Pour in the cream, stirring slowly to integrate it well into the soup. This step transforms your simple broth into something creamy and indulgent.
- Season to perfection: Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust these to suit your flavor preferences.
- Serve hot: Your chicken noodle soup is ready to be served! Spoon it into bowls while it’s piping hot, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving homemade chicken noodle soup can elevate your mealtime experience. You can serve it in a bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a bit of greenery and extra aroma. Crisp crackers or freshly baked bread can complement your soup perfectly, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soup’s creaminess. If you want to take it up a notch, you could provide a dash of lemon juice, which adds brightness. Pairing this comforting dish with a side salad can round out your meal and add some freshness to the table.
Expert Tips: Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use quality broth: The broth you choose serves as the foundation of your soup, so opt for a homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for best results. This will impart a rich flavor to every spoonful.
- Customize your noodles: While egg noodles are classic, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta or even whole-grain options for added nutrition.
- Herbs can make a difference: Fresh herbs usually offer a more pronounced flavor compared to dried herbs. If available, consider using fresh thyme and oregano for a vibrant taste, especially if your soup needs more zest.
- Add vegetables of choice: Don’t shy away from adding additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas to the soup. These can provide extra nourishment and texture.
- Let it sit: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors. This step allows the broth to become more infused with the herbal notes you’ve added.
How to Store Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
If you have leftovers of your homemade chicken noodle soup, storing it properly is crucial to maintain its flavor and freshness. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for more extended periods, freeze it in portion-sized containers, which makes reheating easier in the future. Just remember that noodles can absorb a lot of liquid as the soup sits, so you might want to add a bit of broth when reheating to get your desired consistency.
Variation of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
While the classic chicken noodle soup is unbeatable, experimenting with variations can keep it exciting. Here are a few ideas:
- Herbal variations: You can add different herbs like basil or dill to switch up the flavors. Each herb can bring forth a unique twist to the familiar taste.
- Spicy kick: If you desire some heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This subtle change can provide a delightful surprise.
- Vegetable boost: Enlighten your soup by adding an array of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. This not only enriches the nutritional value but also gives your dish more color and vitality.
- Coconut twist: For a creamy variation, replace the dairy cream with coconut cream. This adds a unique flavor and is ideal for those needing dairy-free options.
- Asian-inspired: Try using rice noodles instead of egg noodles and add ginger and green onions for an Asian twist. This variant provides a refreshing and vibrant alternative.
FAQ
What makes homemade chicken noodle soup special?
Homemade chicken noodle soup is special because it’s made with love and fresh ingredients. You get to control the flavors and customize it according to your family’s taste preferences, which makes it a unique dish every time you prepare it.
How long does it take to make homemade chicken noodle soup?
Typically, homemade chicken noodle soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. With pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, you spend less time in preparation and can have a steaming bowl ready in no time.
Can I freeze homemade chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup! Be sure to store it in an airtight container and follow the storing instructions. Keep in mind that the noodles may become softer upon thawing, so adding fresh noodles when you reheating can help maintain texture.
What can I serve with homemade chicken noodle soup?
You can serve your soup with crunchy crackers, crusty bread, or a refreshing side salad. These accompaniments balance the comforting nature of the soup and help create a wholesome meal.
Can I use different types of noodles in chicken noodle soup?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can experiment with various types of noodles, including whole grain, gluten-free, or even homemade pasta to give your soup a personal touch.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken broth The base of your soup, offering rich flavor and nutrition.
- 1 large potato, diced Adds heartiness and fiber to the soup.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme Brings a fragrant touch (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme).
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano Enhances the soup’s flavor profile (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano).
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded Saves time and adds depth of taste.
- 1 cup egg noodles For that classic chewy texture.
- 1 cup cream Heavy or light for creaminess and richness.
- to taste salt Enhances all the flavors.
- to taste pepper Adds a bit of heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and place the diced potatoes into the pot.
- Add fresh thyme and oregano to the mix and bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking
- Once the potatoes are soft, add the egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and warm through for another 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in the cream, stirring slowly to integrate it into the soup.
Serving
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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