Ultra-Satisfying Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This quicker version of homemade chicken noodle soup skips cooking a whole chicken and calls on boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead. The soup still tastes incredible, satisfying, and classic. The significantly reduced cook time makes this chicken soup from scratch possible on a weeknight. We highly recommend chicken thighs for this because of their flavor and soft texture when cooked, but if you prefer them, chicken breasts will work.
This quicker version of homemade chicken noodle soup skips cooking a whole chicken and calls on boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead. The soup still tastes incredible, satisfying, and classic. The significantly reduced cook time makes this chicken soup from scratch possible on a weeknight. We highly recommend chicken thighs for this because of their flavor and soft texture when cooked, but if you prefer them, chicken breasts will work.
- 1 large onion chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 2 large carrots chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter chicken fat or olive oil
- 2 stalks celery chopped (optional)
- heaped tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
- 3 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pound skinless boneless chicken thighs (4 or 5 thighs)
- 8 cups chicken stock or broth low sodium or use homemade stock
- 5 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- water or more stock as needed
- Carbohydrate 5.1073372398142 g
- Cholesterol 54.014970771027 mg
- Fat 5.1397216678548 g
- Fiber 2.10716809334078 g
- Protein 20.4558986371382 g
- Saturated Fat 2.77756603147989 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (386g)
- Sodium 469.509157570549 mg
- Sugar 3.00016914647343 g
- Trans Fat 0.567372362878298 g
- Calories 152 calories
Step-by-step
- Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring every few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften; 5 to 6 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook, while stirring the garlic around the pan, for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a low simmer. Taste the soup then adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Depending on the stock used, you might need to add 1 or more teaspoons of salt.
- Submerge the chicken thighs into the soup so that the broth covers them. Bring the soup back to a low simmer then partially cover the pot with a lid and cook, stirring a few times until the chicken thighs are cooked through; about 20 minutes. If, during this time, the broth seems low, add a splash more stock or a bit of water.
- Turn the heat to medium-low. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
- Stir the noodles into the soup and cook until done, 6 to 10 minutes depending on the type of noodles used. While the noodles cook, shred the chicken into strips or dice into cubes.
- Slide the chicken back into the pot and then taste the soup once more for seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper, as needed.
- Stir in the parsley and serve.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Ultra-Satisfying Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a wholesome, nutritious meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pickups, homework battles, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. Yet, I believe in the power of home-cooked meals, not just for their nutritional benefits but also for the sense of comfort and connection they bring to our family. That's why I've perfected this quick and easy chicken noodle soup recipe—a true lifesaver on busy evenings.
This recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious, homemade meals don't have to be time-consuming. Forget the hours spent simmering a whole chicken; this version uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness in a fraction of the time. The rich broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and tender chicken create a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or when you're feeling under the weather. My kids practically inhale this soup, and I love knowing they're getting a nutritious meal packed with protein and vegetables. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. I often add leftover vegetables, like roasted carrots or peas, to boost the nutritional value and add a bit of extra color to the bowl. Feel free to experiment with different types of noodles or herbs to personalize the recipe to your liking.
Beyond the Bowl: This soup isn't just a weeknight staple; it's also incredibly versatile. Pack it for lunch the next day—it’s even better the second time around! Or, make a large batch and freeze portions for those evenings when time is truly of the essence. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little love, can create a meal that nourishes both body and soul. It’s more than just soup; it's a hug in a bowl, a taste of home, a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time for a little bit of comfort and joy.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Choosing the right chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my preferred choice because they stay incredibly moist and flavorful during cooking. However, feel free to use chicken breasts if that's what you have on hand. Just be mindful that they may dry out more quickly.
- Homemade stock vs. store-bought: While store-bought low-sodium chicken broth works perfectly well, nothing beats the flavor of homemade chicken stock. If you have some extra time, I highly recommend making your own. The difference in taste is remarkable.
- Vegetable variety: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. Adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add a delightful array of textures and flavors to the soup.
- Noodle selection: Egg noodles are a classic choice, but you can also use other types of pasta like ditalini or even broken spaghetti.
- Spice it up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while it simmers.
This chicken noodle soup recipe is more than just a recipe; it's a love letter to simple cooking, family meals, and the comforting power of a warm bowl of goodness. It’s a reminder that even on the busiest of days, we can create something delicious and nourishing for ourselves and those we love. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and let the comforting aroma of this soup fill your kitchen.
