the best 4 Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

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A bowl of steaming chicken noodle soup with fresh vegetables and herbs.

introduction

There’s something truly special about a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Whether it’s warming you up on a chilly day, soothing you when you’re under the weather, or simply offering a taste of nostalgia, this classic dish has been a go-to comfort food for generations. With its rich, savory broth, tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables, every spoonful delivers both flavor and nourishment.

Homemade chicken noodle soup stands out because it’s wholesome, customizable, and incredibly easy to prepare. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with excess sodium and preservatives, making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier, more flavorful meal. Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients, including protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and energy-boosting carbohydrates from the noodles, making it a well-balanced dish suitable for any time of the day.

Another reason to love this soup? It’s a meal-prepper’s dream! You can make a big batch, store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches, or freeze portions for a ready-made, comforting meal whenever you need it. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or put your own twist on it—by adding spices, extra veggies, or even swapping noodles for a low-carb alternative—this soup is endlessly versatile.

Harvard Nutrition: Why Homemade Broth is Healthier

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Basic Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

✔ 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
✔ 1 medium onion, diced
✔ 3 carrots, sliced
✔ 3 celery stalks, sliced
✔ 3 garlic cloves, minced
✔ 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
✔ 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
✔ 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of choice)
✔ 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
✔ ½ tsp black pepper
✔ 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
✔ 1 bay leaf
✔ Juice of ½ a lemon (for freshness)
✔ Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Onions, carrots, celery, and garlic being sautéed in a large pot.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

  1. Pour in the chicken broth, then add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Chicken & Noodles

  1. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the egg noodles and let them cook for 6-8 minutes, until tender.

Step 4: Final Touches & Serving

  1. Remove the bay leaf and squeeze in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
A large pot of chicken noodle soup simmering with noodles, chicken, and vegetables.

💡 Pro Tip: Let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.

Chicken Noodle Soup Variations & Customizations

1. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Add ½ cup of heavy cream or a cornstarch slurry for a thicker, creamier texture.

2. Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.

3. Low-Carb Chicken Soup (No Noodles)

  • Swap out noodles for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.

4. Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Method

  • Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes (Instant Pot) or low for 6-8 hours (Slow Cooker) for a set-it-and-forget-it meal.

What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for dipping into the broth.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A cozy and comforting pairing.
  • Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the warm soup.
  • Crackers or Biscuits – Adds a crunchy texture to the meal.
A bowl of chicken noodle soup served with crusty bread and a side of herbs.

FAQs About Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?

Yes! Freeze without the noodles for up to 3 months. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

2. What’s the best chicken for soup?

Use rotisserie chicken, boneless thighs, or bone-in chicken for more flavor.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Chicken noodle soup being stored in airtight containers for freezing.
A bowl of steaming chicken noodle soup with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Chicken Noodle Soup

This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless classic made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6 bowls
Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Ladle
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

For the Soup

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion Chopped.
  • 2 carrots Sliced.
  • 2 celery stalks Sliced.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 8 cups chicken broth Low-sodium preferred.
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great.
  • 2 cups egg noodles Or pasta of choice.
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried parsley
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
  • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Add dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  • Reduce heat to a simmer and add the egg noodles. Cook for about 10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
  • Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and let heat through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Serve warm with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Notes

This soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezer-friendly meals, cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating to prevent sogginess.
Keyword Chicken Soup, Comfort Food, Noodle Soup

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. Whether you’re battling a cold, seeking comfort on a chilly evening, or simply craving something hearty and nourishing, this classic soup never disappoints. With its flavorful broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles, it delivers the perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and nostalgia.

One of the best things about homemade chicken noodle soup is how customizable it is. You can adjust the seasoning, add your favorite vegetables, or swap out ingredients to fit your dietary needs. Want a low-carb version? Replace the noodles with zucchini spirals. Prefer something creamy? Stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk. Looking for extra protein? Add chickpeas or an extra serving of chicken. The possibilities are endless, making it a dish that can be tailored to your taste every time.

Another major benefit is that homemade soup is healthier than canned versions, which often contain high sodium levels and preservatives. By making it from scratch, you control the ingredients and can ensure a nutritious, well-balanced meal for you and your family. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—simply freeze a batch and have a ready-to-go, homemade meal whenever you need it.

Whether enjoyed with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or just on its own, chicken noodle soup remains one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world. It’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and always hits the spot.

Have you tried this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe? Share your favorite variations and tips in the comments below!

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