Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic dish that warms both body and soul. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and comforting egg noodles in a savory broth, making it an ideal meal for any time of year. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something satisfying, this soup is sure to bring comfort and nourishment to your table.
Why We Love This Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is truly special. It captures the essence of home-cooked meals, with every ingredient contributing to its rich flavor and heartiness. Using simple yet fresh ingredients, you can create a delicious soup that is ready in no time. Plus, the ease of preparation on the stovetop makes it perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend cooking session. You’ll love how the aroma fills your kitchen as it simmers, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This recipe is not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s preferences.
Ingredients about Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup
To make a delicious Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients work together perfectly to create a warm and hearty dish that you and your loved ones will cherish.
How to Make Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup Directions
Making Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Begin by heating a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add your diced onion and the minced garlic. Sauté them for about two minutes until they become fragrant and the onion starts to look translucent.
Next, include the sliced carrots and chopped celery. These vegetables offer both flavor and texture to your soup. Continue to sauté them for another three to five minutes, allowing them to soften slightly. Once they’ve cooked down, pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring well to combine.
Now, it’s time to add the dried thyme for that aromatic touch. Bring the mixture to a boil, and as soon as it reaches that rolling boil, introduce the egg noodles. Let them simmer in the bubbling broth for about five to seven minutes until they are tender and cooked through.
After the noodles have reached their desired texture, stir in the shredded chicken, allowing it to heat through for another two to three minutes. The chicken will soak up the flavors from the broth, making every bite delicious. Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are just right for you.
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
How to Serve Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup is as simple and delightful as making it. You can serve it hot in warmed bowls that enhance the comforting experience of the soup. To make the meal complete, consider pairing it with crusty bread or crackers, which can be perfect for dipping.
For presentation, you might want to sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top of each bowl before serving. This not only adds a vibrant color but also a fresh taste that enhances the overall flavor. If you’re hosting family or friends, placing the soup in a larger pot on the table can encourage everyone to help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Don’t forget to serve it with a side salad or a simple vegetable dish to balance the meal. This way, you can enjoy a wholesome dinner that is both filling and nutritious.
Expert Tips: Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup turns out perfect every time:
- Use Homemade Chicken Broth: If possible, opt for homemade chicken broth for the best flavor. You can use leftover broth from a rotisserie chicken or make your own by simmering chicken bones with vegetables.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles as they cook; you don’t want them to become mushy. Check for doneness a minute or two before the package instructions recommend.
- Adjust Vegetables to Your Taste: Feel free to modify the types or amounts of vegetables in the soup. Peas, green beans, or corn can all make tasty additions.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This soup holds up well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead meal. Just be aware that the noodles may soak up some of the broth, so you might want to add a bit of water or broth when reheating.
- Customize Your Seasoning: If you enjoy a hearty flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during the simmering stage. Just be sure to remove it before serving!
By following these tips, you can elevate your chicken noodle soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
How to Store Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup
Storing your Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup is easy and allows for convenient meal prep. If you have any leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the soup. You can store it in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as the liquid will expand when frozen. This soup can be frozen for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a quicker method. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy texture.
Variation of Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup
This Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to create variations based on your personal tastes or dietary needs. Here are some delightful twists you can consider:
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, dill, or oregano can add exciting flavors to the broth. Add them during the cooking process or sprinkle them on top just before serving.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or dicing a jalapeño pepper to the soup while sautéing the vegetables.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last stages of cooking. This will elevate the richness of the soup.
- Whole Wheat Noodles: If you prefer a healthier option, try using whole wheat egg noodles or even a gluten-free pasta. This allows everyone to enjoy this comforting dish without dietary concerns.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: You can create a vegetarian version of this soup by replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and using vegetable broth instead. This adaptation maintains the heartiness while providing plant-based nutrition.
Experimenting with these variations can yield new favorite recipes that keep everyone looking forward to mealtime!
FAQ
What makes Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup so comforting?
Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup is comforting due to its warm, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and the familiar taste of egg noodles. It evokes feelings of home and care, making it ideal for comforting meals.
How long does it take to make Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup?
You can prepare this scrumptious soup in under 30 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights while still being satisfying.
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just sauté it in the pot until it’s cooked through before adding the vegetables and broth.
Is it alright to substitute the egg noodles?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute egg noodles with any pasta you prefer or even use rice or quinoa as a base.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup?
You can enhance the flavor by using homemade broth, adding fresh herbs, or incorporating spices like thyme or bay leaves to deepen the taste.
Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- 6 cups chicken broth Homemade broth is recommended for best flavor.
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups egg noodles Can substitute with any pasta or rice.
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- to taste Salt & pepper
- optional Fresh parsley for garnish Add before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about two minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add sliced carrots and chopped celery. Sauté for an additional three to five minutes until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and water, stirring well to combine.
Cooking
- Add dried thyme and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add egg noodles and let them simmer for about five to seven minutes until tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken and heat through for another two to three minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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