- 1 whole chicken breast (or boneless, skinless)
- 8 cups chicken broth (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles or pasta
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔪 Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
🧅 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
🥣 Step 3: Add Broth and Herbs
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10–15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
🍝 Step 4: Add the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions — usually around 8–10 minutes.
🐔 Step 5: Shred the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, shred the cooked chicken with two forks or slice into bite-sized pieces.
🥄 Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add shredded chicken to the soup and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice — and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup Every Time
✅ Use chicken thighs for richer flavor (especially if using bone-in, skin-on thighs)
✅ Make your own chicken stock by simmering bones with herbs and veggies
✅ Add a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer texture
✅ Boost nutrition with spinach, kale, or peas
✅ Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating
✅ Try gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter or allergy-friendly option
The beauty of this soup is that it adapts beautifully to what you have on hand — and still tastes amazing.
Creative Variations to Try
Once you’ve got the base down, try these fun twists:
🌿 Herbal Boost
Add rosemary, sage, or bay leaves while simmering for a deeper, earthy flavor.
🫑 Spicy Kick
A dash of cayenne, chili flakes, or sriracha adds heat and complexity.
🧀 Cheesy Twist
Top with grated Parmesan or stir in a bit of goat cheese for a creamy finish.
🍋 Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright, refreshing twist.
🥒 Easy Chicken Noodle Salad
Cool the soup slightly and serve it cold as a light, brothy salad with cucumber and mint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?
A: Absolutely! Simply add pre-shredded chicken toward the end of cooking.
Q: Is homemade soup healthier than canned?
A: Yes — you control the sodium, preservatives, and quality of ingredients.
Q: How long does homemade chicken soup last?
A: Up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q: Can I substitute the noodles?
A: Definitely — try rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta for different textures.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason chicken noodle soup has been a household favorite for generations. It’s more than just a meal — it’s comfort in a bowl , tradition on a spoon, and healing in every sip.
Whether you're nursing a cold, feeding the family, or just need something warm after a long day, this homemade chicken noodle soup brings heart, flavor, and nourishment all together in one place.
So next time you're feeling under the weather or just want to curl up with something cozy, don’t reach for the can opener.
Grab a pot, your favorite ingredients, and make it from scratch.
Your body — and your taste buds — will thank you.
