Cozy Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
A warm and comforting homemade chicken noodle soup made with simple ingredients, perfect for cozy nights and quick meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450 grams), or use thighs for extra juiciness
- 6 cups (1.4 liters) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 ounces (170 grams) wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 whole bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by peeling and slicing the carrots and celery into thin, bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent and veggies soften. Add garlic during the last minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Add dried thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Add the chicken breasts directly into the simmering broth. Cover partially and cook for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove chicken breasts with tongs or slotted spoon and place on a plate to cool slightly. Discard the bay leaf. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or fingers.
- Add egg noodles directly into the simmering broth and cook for 7-8 minutes until tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Alternatively, cook noodles separately according to package instructions and drain.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
Do not overcook noodles to avoid mushiness; add them last or cook separately if making ahead. Simmer broth gently to keep it clear and flavorful. Add lemon juice at the end for brightness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil. For vegetarian, replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximatel
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 20
Keywords: chicken noodle soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, homemade soup, classic chicken soup, cozy meal