Chicken Noodle Soup – The Ultimate Comfort Food You’ll Make Again and Again 🍲
There’s a reason Chicken Noodle Soup has stood the test of time. Across cultures and generations, this humble bowl of soup is known as the ultimate comfort food. It’s warm, nourishing, simple to make, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving something cozy on a cold day, or just need a reliable family dinner, this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe delivers every single time.
Unlike canned versions, making chicken noodle soup from scratch gives you richer flavor, better texture, and total control over ingredients. The result? A soul-soothing soup that tastes like home.
Why This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Is the Best
✅ Made from scratch with simple pantry ingredients
✅ Rich, flavorful broth without being heavy
✅ Perfectly tender chicken and soft noodles
✅ Healthy, nourishing, and comforting
✅ Great for meal prep, freezing, and leftovers
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between classic and practical, making it ideal for beginners and experienced home cooks alike.
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic chicken noodle soup:
Main Ingredients
1½ lbs chicken (bone-in thighs, drumsticks, or whole chicken pieces)
8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups egg noodles (or any short pasta)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)
Lemon juice (for brightness)
Ginger or turmeric (for immune support)
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, add the chicken and water (or broth). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, heat olive oil or butter. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the reserved broth if needed and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Stir in the noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 6–8 minutes) until tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Taste and Finish
Adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaves. Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
Use bone-in chicken for deeper, richer broth
Cook noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers (prevents sogginess)
Low simmer = clear broth (avoid boiling hard)
Fresh herbs at the end give the soup a fresh, restaurant-quality finish
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup isn’t just comforting—it’s good for you:
🥕 Packed with vitamins from vegetables
🍗 High in protein from chicken
💧 Hydrating and easy to digest
🛡️ Supports immunity, especially during cold and flu season
No wonder it’s often called “nature’s medicine.”
Storage & Freezing Tips
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze without noodles for up to 3 months
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove, adding broth if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Just add it during the final simmer to avoid overcooking.
What noodles work best?
Egg noodles are classic, but spaghetti, fusilli, or rice noodles work too.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, then add noodles at the end.
Final Thoughts
This classic chicken noodle soup recipe is simple, hearty, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to whenever you need warmth, nourishment, or a taste of home. Once you try it homemade, you’ll never look at canned soup the same way again.
