ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Broth
Start by preparing a flavorful, homemade chicken broth:
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken parts in a large pot. Add the water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and a generous amount of salt and pepper.
- Simmer the Broth: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the broth to cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the Chicken: Using tongs, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate to cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
- Strain the Broth: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the vegetables and aromatics. Return the clear broth to the pot for the soup.
2. Cook the Vegetables
To create the delicious base for the soup:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add to Broth: Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot of broth, bringing everything back to a gentle simmer.
3. Cook the Noodles
For a perfect balance of texture:
- Add Noodles: Once the broth and vegetables are simmering, add the egg noodles or your preferred noodles to the pot.
- Cook Until Tender: Allow the noodles to cook in the broth for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are tender yet slightly firm (al dente). Cooking the noodles in the broth infuses them with flavor.
4. Combine and Season
Bringing all the elements together:
- Add the Shredded Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it into the soup to warm through.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. For a fresh twist, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over each bowl right before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a handful of fresh, chopped parsley or dill over each bowl for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a side of crackers for a satisfying, complete meal.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid slightly. For a thinner consistency, add a bit more water or broth.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Chicken noodle soup is perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips for storing it:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles (as they may become mushy) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh noodles to the thawed soup.
Reheating
- On the Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat until warmed through.
- In the Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is more than just delicious; it’s incredibly nourishing. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and broth offers a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and protein, which helps to boost the immune system. The warm broth can also be soothing for a sore throat or congested sinuses, making it an ideal choice during cold and flu season.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought broth?
Yes, store-bought broth can be used as a shortcut, though homemade provides a richer flavor.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice.
3. What can I add to customize the soup?
Try adding fresh spinach, diced potatoes, or even a touch of cream for a heartier version.
Enjoy this cozy bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, packed with nutrition, warmth, and flavor. Perfect for chilly nights or a comforting meal whenever you crave something wholesome.
ADVERTISEMENT
