Chicken Noodle Soup

My Comfort Food: A Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly evening. It's the ultimate comfort food, a hug in a bowl, a reminder of home-cooked meals and simpler times. For me, this recipe isn't just about the delicious taste; it's about the memories it evokes, the feeling of warmth and contentment that washes over me with every spoonful. I've been making variations of this soup for years, tweaking it to perfection, and it's become a staple in my family's repertoire. This isn't some fancy, Michelin-star worthy creation; it’s a simple, honest, and deeply satisfying dish.

As a busy working mom, finding time for elaborate cooking is often a challenge. That's why I love this recipe – it’s quick, easy, and requires minimal prep. It's perfect for those nights when you need something nourishing and delicious, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The beauty lies in its simplicity: the rich, savory broth, the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked noodles. It's a symphony of flavors that come together seamlessly, creating a taste experience that's both comforting and exciting.

The ingredients are simple and readily available. I usually pick up a whole chicken – it's more economical and yields a more flavorful broth. I prefer bone-in chicken because it adds depth and richness to the soup. Don't be afraid to experiment with the vegetables; add whatever you have on hand – spinach, mushrooms, zucchini – they all work wonderfully. I always add a generous amount of fresh parsley, both in the broth and as a garnish. Its bright, fresh taste cuts through the richness of the chicken and broth, adding a lovely touch of brightness. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon add a final touch of sophistication, but they’re entirely optional.

The process is surprisingly straightforward. I usually use a pressure cooker to speed things up, but you can certainly adapt this recipe for a traditional pot on the stovetop. The key is to allow the chicken to simmer long enough to become tender and release all its flavor into the broth. Don't rush this part; patience is key to a truly delicious soup.

This chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It’s the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers, the comforting warmth that spreads through your body with every bite, and the feeling of satisfaction knowing you’ve created something delicious and nourishing from scratch. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, a culinary heirloom that I’m proud to share.

Beyond the recipe itself, this soup represents so much more. It’s about family, about gathering around the table and sharing a simple, delicious meal together. It's about comfort, about finding solace in the familiar flavors of home. It’s about taking a moment to slow down, to appreciate the simple things, and to savor the pleasure of a truly satisfying dish. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and let the aroma of this wonderful soup fill your kitchen. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a moment of warmth, comfort, and deliciousness in your own home.

Make it your own! Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Add different vegetables, herbs, or spices to create your own unique version. Experiment with different types of noodles, or even add some dumplings or rice for a heartier soup. The possibilities are endless!

Enjoy the process! Cooking should be enjoyable, not a chore. Put on some music, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy the experience of creating something delicious from scratch. And most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!

Step-by-step

• Rinse and dry chicken, then season with salt and pepper.
• Set Instant Pot to the saute setting – high. Once oil is hot, add olive oil, onions, and garlic. Stir and cook for 3 minutes.
• Stir in the carrots, celery, parsley, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Then pour in the chicken stock and add the chicken.
• Lock the Instant Pot lid into place and set the soup/broth pressure setting for 15 minutes. The IP will take 20-23 minutes to pressurize and then it will start counting down the cook time.
• Once the Instant Pot cycle is complete, cover the nozzle with a kitchen towel then manually release pressure by rotating the valve to the “Venting” position. Venting should take about 5 minutes. Once complete, carefully unlock and remove the lid.
• Remove the chicken from the soup. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. When the broth comes to a boil, add noodles, cook for about 5-6 minutes, then turn off (the package says to cook them longer but the noodles will continue to cook while in the pot).
• Shred with two forks, and discard the bones. Return the chicken to the pot.
• Taste and season with more salt and pepper as desired, and garnish with additional parsley. Serve with Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges if desired.