Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, flavorful herbs, and soft egg noodles, this classic recipe is comforting, nourishing, and perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving a wholesome meal.
Unlike canned soup, this homemade version is packed with fresh ingredients and rich flavor. It’s easy to prepare, family-friendly, and ideal for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in about one hour
Rich homemade chicken broth
Loaded with vegetables
Great for meal prep
Freezer-friendly (without noodles)
Comfort food for the whole family
Ingredients
For the Soup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
Fresh parsley
Cracked black pepper
Equipment Needed
Large soup pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery.
Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth.
Add thyme, parsley, and the bay leaf.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Add Chicken
Stir in the shredded chicken.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes so the flavors develop.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles directly to the soup.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper.
Serve with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or crackers.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: Varies depending on broth
Tips for the Best Soup
Use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor.
Rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.
Add noodles just before serving if making ahead to prevent them from becoming too soft.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor.
Variations
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Vegetable Chicken Soup
Add peas, corn, spinach, or green beans for extra vegetables.
Gluten-Free Version
Replace egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked noodles after reheating for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes. Cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the noodles. Freshly cooked noodles hold their texture better after thawing.
What can I serve with chicken noodle soup?
Garlic bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, fresh salad, or warm dinner rolls make excellent side dishes.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in a rich broth that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Once you try this homemade version, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
