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There’s something truly magical about a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. It’s nourishing, soothing, and just feels like a big hug in a bowl. I love how this recipe fills the house with comforting aromas as it simmers away on the stove.
Plus, this chicken noodle soup recipe is incredibly versatile—perfect for using up leftover chicken and veggies.
Why I Love This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This chicken noodle soup recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly wholesome. It’s packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting noodles, making it a complete meal in a bowl. Whether I’m feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy meal, this soup never disappoints.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Facts (Per serving – Serves 4)
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add shredded chicken, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Let the soup simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles (or pasta of your choice) separately according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Once the soup has simmered and the vegetables are tender, remove the bay leaf from the pot.
- Stir in the cooked noodles into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the chicken noodle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to eat chicken soup everyday?
Eating chicken soup every day can be perfectly fine as long as it’s part of a well-balanced and varied diet. Chicken soup can provide a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially if it’s loaded with vegetables and made with a nutritious broth.
However, it’s important to ensure that you’re not relying solely on chicken soup for all your nutritional needs. Variety is key for a healthy diet, so incorporating different foods and ingredients throughout the week ensures you’re getting a range of nutrients.
Additionally, be mindful of the sodium content in store-bought or canned soups, as excessive sodium intake can be harmful to health. If you’re making your own chicken soup at home, you have more control over the ingredients and can adjust the seasoning to your taste and dietary preferences.
Ultimately, enjoy your chicken soup regularly but remember to complement it with other foods to maintain a balanced diet.
Is chicken soup good for high blood pressure?
As far as I know, chicken soup can be a beneficial part of a diet aimed at managing high blood pressure, especially when prepared in a health-conscious manner. The key lies in the ingredients and preparation methods.
Homemade chicken soup made with lean chicken, plenty of vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, and a low-sodium broth can be a nutritious choice for individuals with high blood pressure. Vegetables in the soup provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support heart health.
Additionally, using herbs and spices instead of salt for seasoning can help keep sodium levels in check. However, store-bought or canned soups often contain high levels of sodium, which can be detrimental to blood pressure control.
Therefore, when enjoying chicken soup for its potential health benefits, it’s important to prioritize fresh, homemade versions with wholesome ingredients and mindful seasoning choices.
As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice tailored to managing high blood pressure.
What can I add to my chicken soup to give it flavor?
When I want to enhance the flavor of my chicken soup, I love adding a variety of ingredients to give it a delicious boost. Here are some of my favorite flavor-enhancing additions:
- Aromatics: Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and celery in a bit of olive oil or butter. These aromatics create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Herbs and Spices: Add a combination of dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, or parsley. Don’t be shy with the black pepper and consider adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a hint of heat.
- Vegetables: Load up your soup with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and spinach. Each vegetable adds its unique flavor and texture to the soup.
- Acid: A splash of acidity from a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the soup.
- Tomatoes: Adding diced tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste can deepen the flavor profile of the soup.
- Parmesan Rind: If you have a Parmesan cheese rind on hand, toss it into the soup while it simmers. It infuses a savory, umami richness.
- Chicken Stock or Bouillon: Use a high-quality chicken stock or bouillon cube to intensify the chicken flavor in the soup.
- Soy Sauce or Fish Sauce: For an extra depth of flavor, a small amount of soy sauce or fish sauce can work wonders, adding umami and saltiness.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the soup with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro right before serving to add a burst of freshness.
Experiment with these additions based on your preferences and dietary needs to create a chicken soup bursting with flavor and goodness!
Helpful Resources
- A brief history of chicken noodle soup
- All our soups
- My favorite potato soup recipe
Wrap-Up
This homemade chicken noodle soup is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot and savor every spoonful of this comforting classic. Whether you’re battling a cold or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this timeless favorite!