Nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup when you’re craving comfort food. This recipe is simple, hearty, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any day, especially when you’re feeling under the weather or need a cozy meal.
Recipe Details:
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Serves: 4-6 people
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Execution:
- Saute the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Bring it to a boil.
- Cook the Noodles: Once the broth is boiling, add the egg noodles. Let them cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
- Add the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine all the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the soup from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Additional Tips:
- Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor if available.
- You can substitute egg noodles with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles to suit dietary preferences.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
- For extra protein, mix in chickpeas or white beans.
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of vegetables, chicken, and broth provides essential vitamins and minerals that support immunity and overall health. It’s especially known for its soothing properties when dealing with colds or flu, as the warm broth helps hydrate and ease congestion.
The lean protein from chicken boosts energy, while the carrots, celery, and onions supply antioxidants and fiber for better digestion.