Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe and its benefits
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup on a chilly day. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this soul-soothing dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Simmer Soup: Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add shredded or cubed chicken, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cook Noodles: While the soup is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside.
Combine Soup and Noodles: Once the soup has finished simmering, add the cooked noodles to the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Ladle the chicken noodle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
♦ Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas, corn, or spinach.
♦ For extra flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
♦ Leftover rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe and makes preparation even easier.
♦ Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Nutrition and Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is not only delicious and comforting but also offers a range of nutritional benefits that contribute to overall health and well-being. Let’s take a closer look at the nutrition profile and the advantages of including chicken noodle soup in your diet:
Nutrition Profile:
Chicken noodle soup is typically made with a combination of chicken, vegetables, noodles, and broth. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients found in a typical serving:
Protein: Chicken is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall cellular function.
Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions add vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and folate to the soup.
Carbohydrates: Noodles provide carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary source of energy. They help fuel daily activities and support brain function.
Hydration: The broth in chicken noodle soup helps keep you hydrated, especially important when you’re feeling under the weather.
Health Benefits:
Immune Support: Chicken noodle soup contains immune-boosting nutrients like vitamins A, C, and zinc, which help support a healthy immune system and may reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.
Hydration: In addition to providing essential nutrients, the broth in chicken noodle soup helps keep you hydrated, which is crucial for overall health and well-being.
Comforting and Soothing: Chicken noodle soup is often considered a comfort food, providing warmth and nourishment during times of illness or stress. The steam from the soup can also help clear nasal passages and soothe a sore throat.
Nutrient-Dense: When made with wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and whole-grain noodles, chicken noodle soup can be a nutritious and satisfying meal option that provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
30 frequently asked questions and answers about chicken noodle soup recipe:
Q: Can I use store-bought chicken broth for making chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, store-bought chicken broth works perfectly fine for making chicken noodle soup. However, homemade broth adds extra flavor and nutrients.
Q: How long does it take to make chicken noodle soup from scratch?
A: Typically, homemade chicken noodle soup takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, depending on the cooking method and ingredients used.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Q: What type of noodles is best for chicken noodle soup?
A: Egg noodles are the classic choice for chicken noodle soup, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne.
Q: Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How can I make chicken noodle soup gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free noodles or substitute with rice or quinoa. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without vegetables?
A: While vegetables add flavor and nutrients to chicken noodle soup, you can omit them if desired or use your favorite vegetables.
Q: Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works well in chicken noodle soup and adds delicious flavor.
Q: How can I thicken chicken noodle soup?
A: You can thicken chicken noodle soup by simmering it uncovered for a longer time to allow the liquid to reduce, or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without chicken broth?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup without chicken broth by using water and adding extra seasoning for flavor.
Q: What spices are commonly used in chicken noodle soup?
A: Common spices include thyme, oregano, bay leaves, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I add other proteins to chicken noodle soup, like tofu or shrimp?
A: Yes, you can customize your chicken noodle soup by adding tofu, shrimp, or other proteins to suit your dietary preferences.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup dairy-free?
A: Yes, chicken noodle soup is naturally dairy-free. Just ensure that all ingredients used are free from dairy products.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup spicy?
A: Yes, you can add spices like chili flakes or hot sauce to make chicken noodle soup spicy according to your preference.
Q: How long does chicken noodle soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Chicken noodle soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without noodles?
A: Yes, you can make a noodle-less version of chicken soup by omitting the noodles or substituting with rice or vegetables.
Q: How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy in chicken noodle soup?
A: Cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot by following a pressure cooker recipe and adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup with boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular choice for chicken noodle soup. Simply cook and shred them before adding to the soup.
Q: How can I add more flavor to chicken noodle soup?
A: You can add more flavor to chicken noodle soup by using homemade broth, adding fresh herbs, or seasoning with spices like garlic powder or paprika.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup with leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
A: Yes, leftover Thanksgiving turkey can be used instead of chicken to make a delicious turkey noodle soup.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup in a Dutch oven?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup in a Dutch oven by following a stovetop recipe and adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without onions?
A: Yes, you can omit onions from chicken noodle soup or substitute with other aromatics like garlic or leeks.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup with bone-in chicken pieces?
A: Yes, bone-in chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, can be used to make chicken noodle soup. Remove the bones before serving.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without carrots?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup without carrots or substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup with canned chicken?
A: Yes, canned chicken can be used to make chicken noodle soup. Drain and shred the canned chicken before adding it to the soup.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without celery?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup without celery or substitute with other vegetables like fennel or zucchini.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup without garlic?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup without garlic or substitute with other aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup with rice instead of noodles?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup with rice instead of noodles to create a comforting and hearty dish.
Q: Can I make chicken noodle soup with frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup with frozen vegetables as a convenient and budget-friendly option.
Conclusion:
Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of delicious soup that will warm both body and soul.
