Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming
This comforting and nourishing chicken noodle soup is perfect for soothing the soul and revitalizing the body. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it's a go-to recipe for any day.
This Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a dish; it's a remedy for the body and soul. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, each bowl serves warmth and comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out
- Packed with nutritious vegetables for a wholesome meal
- Perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather
The Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a comforting dish; it's a powerhouse of nutrition. By making it from scratch, you control the ingredients, ensuring that every bowl is packed with wholesome goodness. Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken offers a source of lean protein. This combination not only nourishes the body but also supports the immune system, making it an ideal meal during cold and flu season.
In addition to being nutritious, homemade chicken noodle soup is incredibly customizable. You can adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a heartier broth or a lighter version, the flexibility of this dish allows you to create a soup that meets your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this ultimate healing chicken noodle soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in individual portions, making it easy to grab a healthy meal on busy days. The flavors of the soup actually improve as it sits, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Just reheat a portion on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
When preparing for meal prep, consider storing the noodles separately from the broth. This will prevent them from becoming overly soft and mushy during storage. Simply cook the noodles fresh when you're ready to enjoy the soup, and you'll have a delicious, freshly made meal ready in minutes.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To elevate your chicken noodle soup experience, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the soup perfectly and make for a well-rounded meal. For added flavor, you can also serve the soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a dash of hot sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the broth.
If you're looking to mix things up, try experimenting with different herbs and spices. Adding a touch of cayenne pepper can bring some heat, while fresh dill or basil can impart a refreshing twist. For a heartier version, you might include beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber. The possibilities are endless, making this chicken noodle soup a versatile staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Broth and Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Noodles
Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until they are tender.
Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm and healing soup!
Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
To achieve the richest flavor in your chicken noodle soup, it's essential to use high-quality chicken broth. Homemade broth is ideal, but if you're pressed for time, opt for low-sodium store-bought varieties to keep the soup from becoming overly salty. Additionally, simmering the broth with the vegetables allows their flavors to infuse the soup, resulting in a more vibrant and delicious dish.
Make sure to shred your chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the soup. Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a depth of flavor to your dish. If you're cooking the chicken specifically for this recipe, consider poaching it in the broth for maximum taste and tenderness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover chicken noodle soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for up to three months. When freezing, be sure to leave out the noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated. Instead, cook fresh noodles when you're ready to enjoy the soup again.
To reheat the soup, simply pour it into a pot over medium heat and warm until heated through. If the soup has thickened in the refrigerator, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade soup once more.
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is often regarded as a remedy for the common cold, and for good reason. The warm broth helps to soothe sore throats and clear nasal congestion, while the combination of chicken and vegetables provides essential nutrients to help your body fight off illness. The anti-inflammatory properties of the ingredients can also aid in reducing symptoms associated with colds and flu.
Beyond its comforting qualities, chicken noodle soup is also low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. The fiber from the vegetables and noodles helps promote healthy digestion, ensuring that you feel good inside and out.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.
→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting and nourishing chicken noodle soup is perfect for soothing the soul and revitalizing the body. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it's a go-to recipe for any day.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until they are tender.
Remove from heat, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm and healing soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g