Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Classic
Chicken noodle soup is a timeless comfort food that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. Perfect for a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather, this classic soup is both nourishing and delicious. Here’s a simple recipe to create a hearty bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Carrots and Celery: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
- Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, until they are tender but still firm to the bite.
- Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf and discard. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Use Homemade Broth: For an extra-rich flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a wonderful flavor to the soup.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes for a different twist.
This homemade chicken noodle soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. Enjoy making this simple yet delightful dish for your loved ones!