Chicken and noodle soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
This hearty recipe combines tender chunks of chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful broth infused with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs.
Perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is both soothing and satisfying.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 6 persons
Health Benefits of Chicken and Noodle Soup
Why This Dish Is Good for You
Chicken and noodle soup offers several nutritional benefits. The lean protein from chicken supports muscle repair and growth, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
The broth helps hydrate the body and soothes the throat, making it an ideal choice during cold and flu season. Additionally, whole grain noodles add fiber to the mix, promoting healthy digestion.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles or whole grain noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Execution
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), dried thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles or whole grain noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until tender. Remove the bay leaf.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Additional Tips
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Substitute the egg noodles with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
