Introduction to Chicken Noodle Soup
There's something undeniably magical about chicken noodle soup that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a cozy meal, this classic dish has a way of warming your heart and soothing your soul. But what really sets it apart? Many believe it’s the combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and savory broth, all simmered to perfection.
Studies show that the aroma of soup can evoke nostalgia and remind us of family gatherings or cozy nights in. In fact, chicken noodle soup is often referred to as "liquid gold" due to its comforting properties. According to the National Institutes of Health, warm liquids can help with hydration and may soothe coughs and congestion. So, next time you're battling a cold or just looking for a homey dish, remember the healing powers of this classic.
Making your own chicken noodle soup from scratch is easier than you think. It allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, ensuring that every bowl is just as you want it. You’ll discover that once you make it from scratch, there’s no going back to store-bought varieties. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how to whip up your own batch of this heartwarming dish!
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup
When it comes to making a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup, having the right ingredients is key. Let's dive into what you’ll need!
Essential ingredients for homemade chicken noodle soup
To create the perfect base for your chicken noodle soup, gather these essential ingredients:
- Butter: For sautéing the vegetables.
- Celery and Carrots: Fresh and diced, these veggies add flavor and nutrition.
- Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the broth's aroma and depth.
- Chicken Stock or Broth: A homemade stock is highly recommended (check out this guide from the USDA on making stock).
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes for that perfect seasoning balance.
- Noodles: Make your own egg noodles or use your favorite small pasta.
- Rotisserie Chicken: The star of the show! It adds tender, flavorful meat directly into the soup.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
To elevate your chicken noodle soup, consider adding these optional ingredients:
- Better Than Bouillon or bouillon granules: For an extra depth of flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill can brighten up the dish.
- Vegetables: Adding peas or corn can introduce more textures and flavors.
Feel free to mix and match based on what you have in your pantry or your personal tastes! Your chicken noodle soup will be hearty and full of love.
Preparing Chicken Noodle Soup
Making chicken noodle soup from scratch is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and enticing aromas. Follow these friendly steps to create a comforting bowl that will have your friends and family asking for seconds.
Gather and prep the ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- Vegetables: 2 ribs of celery and 3-4 large carrots, diced
- Flavor enhancers: 1 clove of minced garlic, dried spices like rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes
- Chicken and broth: 10 cups of chicken stock and 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
- Noodles: Either homemade egg noodles or about 4 cups of bite-size pasta like farfalle
Take a moment to dice the vegetables and shred the chicken if you haven't done so. This prep work makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!
Start with sautéing the vegetables
In a large enameled pot, melt half a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add your diced celery and carrots. Sauté for about 3 minutes, letting them soften slightly. Then, introduce the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. The smell of sizzling vegetables is nothing short of heavenly!
Craft the rich chicken broth
Next, it's time to elevate your broth. Pour in the 10 cups of chicken stock you've gathered and sprinkle in your seasonings: 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and the dried herbs. Pro tip: Always taste your broth before adding more salt; everyone's preference is different. For an extra umami kick, consider adding a spoonful of Better than Bouillon chicken flavor or bouillon granules. Bring this mixture to a boil and marvel at the rich, savory aroma.
Cook the noodles to perfection
Once boiling, it's time to add your noodles. If you’re using uncooked homemade egg noodles, drop them right in. If you choose dry pasta, watch the time closely to avoid overcooking—nobody wants mushy noodles in their chicken noodle soup! Stir occasionally and remove from heat once they're just al dente. Remember, they will continue cooking slightly even after you take the pot off the burner.
Add the rotisserie chicken and season
Finally, incorporate the shredded rotisserie chicken into your pot. Stir everything gently to combine, giving it a taste check one last time. You may want to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Is it flavorful enough? A sprinkle of extra herbs might do the trick.
And just like that, your homemade chicken noodle soup is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it warm, and get ready to savor the unapologetically rich and nourishing goodness. Enjoy this bowl of comfort—perfect for any day of the week, especially when you need a bit of warmth in your life!
Variations on Chicken Noodle Soup
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
If you crave a richer take on chicken noodle soup, try adding a splash of heavy cream to your broth. This simple addition transforms your classic recipe into a velvety delight. Start by whisking 1 cup of cream into your soup just before serving. For an extra kick, stir in some grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream! The creaminess balances the savory flavors beautifully, making each spoonful comfortingly delicious.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup with Added Flair
In the mood for something a bit more adventurous? Spice up your chicken noodle soup by adding diced jalapeños or a few squirts of sriracha sauce. You could also toss in some fresh cilantro or lime juice for a zesty twist. The heat contrasts wonderfully with the soothing flavors, creating a satisfying bowl that's perfect for chilly days. Consider checking out Serious Eats for more ideas on customizing your soup!
With these variations, you can easily transform your beloved chicken noodle soup to fit your mood or impress your friends. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Noodle Soup
Best Practices for Making Homemade Broth
Making homemade broth is a game-changer for your chicken noodle soup. Use the leftover rotisserie chicken bones to simmer in a large pot with water, veggies, and herbs for rich flavor. A longer simmer time (4-6 hours) allows the collagen to release, making the broth gelatinous and heartier. Just strain it once done, and you're good to go!
For extra flavor, try adding aromatics like onion or bay leaves, or even a splash of lemon juice.
Tips for Reheating and Storing Leftovers
To enjoy your chicken noodle soup later, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, as noodles tend to absorb liquid over time. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags, ensuring you undercook the noodles slightly.
This way, you can savor your delicious homemade soup anytime!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Soup
When enjoying your chicken noodle soup, consider adding sides that elevate the meal and enhance your experience.
Perfect sides to complement your soup
For an ideal pairing, try crusty artisan bread or warm homemade rolls. They add a fabulous texture and are perfect for soaking up that delicious broth. A slice of cheesy garlic bread could also bring a satisfying twist.
Pairing with a refreshing salad
Consider a light, zesty salad like a classic Caesar or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. The crispness of the greens balances the warmth of the soup, creating a harmonious dining experience. Want something a bit different? A spinach salad with walnuts and feta can introduce delightful flavors that complement the savory notes of the soup.
For more great sides, check out our ideas on salad pairings and learn how to make bread from scratch at Baking Basics. Enjoy!
Time Breakdown for Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep Time
Getting ready to whip up this delicious chicken noodle soup takes about 20 minutes. You’ll want to chop those veggies and gather your ingredients, so everything's organized and within reach.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the cooking time is a breeze at just 20 minutes. This includes getting the broth bubbling and the noodles cooked to perfection.
Total Time
In about 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup ready to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress your friends! For a deeper dive into cooking techniques, check out this expert guide on soup-making.
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Noodle Soup
Calories per serving
Each serving of chicken noodle soup contains approximately 206 calories. This makes it a comforting yet light meal option, perfect for any time of the year.
Protein content
This hearty soup is packed with 23 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the rotisserie chicken. This protein helps with muscle recovery and keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
Key vitamins and minerals
Our delicious chicken noodle soup is not just tasty—it's also nutritious! It provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin A (4606 IU): Great for vision and immune function.
- Potassium (587 mg): Supports heart health and regulates blood pressure.
- Calcium (31 mg) and Iron (1 mg): Essential for bone health and oxygen transport in the blood.
For a deeper look at the nutritional benefits of the ingredients in this wonderful dish, consider checking out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or Healthline.
FAQs about Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze your chicken noodle soup for up to 2-3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat it over medium heat on the stove. For the best texture, consider undercooking store-bought noodles slightly before freezing, so they don’t become mushy during reheating.
What can I substitute for homemade stock?
If you don’t have homemade stock on hand, store-bought chicken broth works well! To enhance the flavor, add a spoonful of Better than Bouillon chicken base. Alternatively, you can use low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you're looking for a lighter option. For a deeper taste, check out this guide on stock alternatives.
How to make the soup gluten-free?
Making your chicken noodle soup gluten-free is easy! Simply swap regular egg noodles for gluten-free egg noodles or make your own using gluten-free all-purpose flour. This way, you can enjoy all the comfort of the soup without any dietary concerns! If you’d like, check out some gluten-free noodle recipes to explore your options.
Enjoy your delicious, cozy soup and happy cooking!
Conclusion on Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade chicken noodle soup is comfort in a bowl, perfect for warming up any chilly day. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this recipe not only nourishes the body but also the soul. Skip the canned varieties and enjoy a dish made with love and care. Don’t hesitate to explore different variations for a delightful twist! For more inspiration, check out The Kitchn for tips on customizing your soup recipe.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
- Enameled Pot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- ½ Tablespoon butter
- 2 ribs celery diced
- 3-4 large carrots diced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 10 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon dried rosemary or more, to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 batch homemade egg noodles or 4 cups dry egg noodles, farfalle or other bite-size pasta
- 3 cups rotisserie chicken
- 1 teaspoon better than bouillon chicken flavor (or more, as needed), or chicken bouillon granules
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Add butter, diced celery and carrots to a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Saute for 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add chicken stock and season the broth with rosemary, thyme, crushed red pepper, and salt. Taste and add a spoonful of 'better than bullion' chicken or chicken bouillon cubes or granules as needed.
- Bring broth to a boil. Add noodles and cook just until noodles are al dente.
- If using store-bought noodles, be cautious not to overcook them! Remove pot from heat as soon as they are just barely tender.
- Add chicken meat from the rotisserie chicken. Taste the broth again and add more seasonings, if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, depending on the freshness of the chicken you used.
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