Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Let’s be real, most chicken soup is bland and forgettable. Not this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup. This soup is seasoned the way it should be, packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and fresh veggies that retain their flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a remedy on chilly days, this recipe stands out for its rich taste and comforting qualities. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this soup will become a favorite in no time.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For Finishing Touches
• How to Make Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
• Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
• Step 2: Cook Chicken
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Add Noodles
• Step 6: Final Touches
• How to Serve Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
• In a Classic Bowl
• With Crusty Bread
• As a Lunch Option
• With Side Salads
• Topped with Cheese
• With Crackers
• How to Perfect Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
• Reheating Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use leftover chicken for Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup?
• What type of noodles work best?
• How do I make my soup thicker?
• Can I add other vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: This soup is loaded with seasonings and fresh ingredients that elevate it beyond the typical chicken noodle soup.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this homestyle chicken noodle soup adapts to any occasion.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Low in calories but rich in nutrients, it offers a comforting meal without the guilt.
• Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze portions for a quick meal on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures everything comes together easily.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the soup evenly while accommodating all your ingredients.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring even pieces for cooking.

Ingredients

Let’s be real, most chicken soup is bland and forgettable. Not this one. This chicken noodle soup is seasoned the way it should be, packed with chicken, noodles, and veggies that don’t taste like they’ve been boiled to death. You can always count on me to keep it real and to keep the recipes well seasoned.

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 2 cups diced carrots (This was 3 carrots for me.)
• 1 cup diced celery (This was 3 celery stalks for me.)
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 7-8 cups chicken broth or stock (See notes.)
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Boullion Chicken Flavor (Optional for Flavor.)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
• salt and pepper to taste

For Finishing Touches

• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (Adjust to taste. Feel free to add this at the end so you can taste repeatedly.)
• 6-7 oz egg noodles (This was about 3 cups for me.)

How to Make Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by chopping all your vegetables: onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. This will help streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add the chicken breasts along with enough chicken broth to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until cooked through (about 20-25 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it once cooled.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add shredded chicken back into the pot along with remaining broth. Stir in Better Than Boullion (if using), bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring back to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Noodles

Once the soup is simmering nicely, stir in egg noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Stir in fresh lemon juice gradually until you reach your desired flavor balance. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot!

How to Serve Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple bowl or a more elaborate setting, here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience.

In a Classic Bowl

• Serve the soup hot in a traditional soup bowl for a cozy meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for an extra touch of flavor.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread.
• This adds a satisfying crunch and makes the meal more filling.

As a Lunch Option

• Pack your soup in a thermos for an easy lunch at work or school.
• It keeps warm and delicious until you’re ready to enjoy it.

With Side Salads

• Complement your bowl of soup with a light side salad.
• A simple green salad with vinaigrette can balance the flavors beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving.
• Let it melt slightly for an indulgent twist on the classic recipe.

With Crackers

• Serve alongside saltines or oyster crackers for added texture.
• They provide a nice crunch and are perfect for dipping.

How to Perfect Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting your Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with homemade chicken broth if possible. It enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Add veggies like carrots and celery towards the end of cooking to keep them crunchy and vibrant.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for the best flavor.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley right before serving. They add freshness and brighten up the dish.
• Experiment with Noodles: If you want variety, try using different types of noodles such as whole wheat or gluten-free options.
• Finish with Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice before serving adds brightness and enhances all the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

Enjoying Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is even better when paired with delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment that complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crispness and a creamy element that balances well with the warmth of the soup.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A melted grilled cheese creates a nostalgic pairing that’s always satisfying alongside chicken noodle soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness and add nutritional value to your meal.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty addition that pairs well with the broth-based soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins add sweetness and texture, making them a delightful choice alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using dull broth: Always opt for a flavorful chicken broth. If you use plain water, the soup will lack depth. Consider adding Better Than Boullion for an extra kick.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Add them at different stages of cooking to keep their texture intact.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t underestimate the power of salt and pepper. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning gradually.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice adds a fresh zing that brightens the flavors. Don’t forget to add it at the end for a balanced taste.
• Ignoring noodle cooking time: Overcooked noodles can turn mushy and ruin your soup’s texture. Follow package instructions and add noodles near the end of cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in portioned airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space in containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot. Adjust cooking time based on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries people have about making Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup.

Can I use leftover chicken for Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred it and add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired. Cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.

How do I make my soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables or add a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding peas, corn, or green beans based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is not just comfort food; it’s a versatile dish that you can adapt based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something soothing when you’re under the weather, this recipe delivers deliciousness every time. Don’t hesitate to try out different vegetables or herbs for your own twist!