Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food that warms you up with every spoonful. It features tender pieces of chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful broth made from simmered vegetables and herbs. The mix of carrots, celery, and onions creates a base that’s both light and satisfying, perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
I love making this soup because it feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl. What makes it special for me is the way the noodles soak up the broth and stay perfectly tender instead of getting mushy, which is all about adding them at the right time. It’s such a simple dish, but it always brings everyone around the table with smiles and happy sighs.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a slice of crusty bread to dip into the warm broth. Sometimes I like to sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. This soup reminds me of chilly afternoons and family dinners where everyone just slows down and savors the moment together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using a whole chicken adds rich flavor and tender meat. If pressed for time, chicken breasts or thighs work well too. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if you overcook them slightly.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is best for depth of flavor, but low-sodium store-bought broth is a handy substitute. Avoid using broth with high salt to control seasoning better.
Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles hold up well in the soup. If you want a gluten-free version, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Add these last to avoid them getting mushy.
Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion, Garlic): These classic soup veggies build the base flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen chopped vegetables work fine. Fresh garlic packs a punch, but garlic powder can be used as a last resort.
Herbs: Thyme adds an earthy touch; fresh is best, but dried works well too. Parsley on top gives a fresh note—you can substitute cilantro if preferred.
How Do I Keep the Noodles from Getting Mushy?
Noodles can easily turn mushy if overcooked or left in hot soup for too long. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Cook noodles separately and add just before serving, or add them to the simmering soup only when you’re ready to eat.
- Watch the cooking time—egg noodles usually take 6-8 minutes to become tender but not soft.
- If you want to store leftovers, keep noodles separate and add fresh when reheating the soup.
This way, the noodles stay tender and the soup keeps its comforting texture, making every bowl satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for simmering the soup evenly and making enough to share.
- Sharp knife – makes chopping vegetables and cutting chicken easy and safe.
- Cutting board – a sturdy place to prep all your veggies and chicken without mess.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – helps you remove chicken pieces easily after cooking.
- Ladle – great for serving hot soup without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the broth, herbs, and seasoning just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey leftovers – adds a nice twist, especially after holiday meals.
- Add diced potatoes or parsnips – for a heartier soup with extra root vegetable goodness.
- Use fresh dill instead of thyme – gives a bright and unique flavor that feels fresh.
- Stir in spinach or kale near the end – adds color, nutrients, and a bit of bite without overpowering the soup.
Traditional Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces or 4 chicken breasts/thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme or a few sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
For The Noodles:
- 2 cups wide egg noodles or homemade egg noodles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes roughly 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 40-50 minutes to cook, including simmering time. Overall, set aside about 1 hour from start to finish for a warm, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally and cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Broth:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
3. Simmer Chicken and Herbs:
Add the chicken pieces, thyme, bay leaf (if using), salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let everything simmer gently for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
4. Prepare the Noodles and Chicken:
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool a bit. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Add the noodles to the simmering broth and cook for 6-8 minutes until tender but firm. While noodles cook, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to mix. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. This helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents the broth from becoming cloudy.
How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Add the gluten-free noodles toward the end of cooking and watch closely so they don’t overcook and become mushy.
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Absolutely! Make the soup up to the point before adding noodles and storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating to keep their texture perfect.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the noodles have been added, they may soak up broth and soften over time, so consider storing noodles separately and adding fresh ones when reheating.
