Are you yearning for a truly heartwarming meal, a dish that evokes childhood memories and wraps you in pure comfort? Look no further than this exquisite Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch. Far more than just a meal, this classic recipe is a culinary journey back to simpler times, crafted with love and patience, just like the cherished bowls Mom or Grandma used to make. It’s the ultimate comfort food, providing not just sustenance but a sense of well-being that truly warms you from the inside out.
This isn’t a quick fix, 30-minute soup. This is a labor of love, a slow-simmered masterpiece where rich, savory broth forms the soul of the dish, cradling tender, succulent chicken, vibrant fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked, wide egg noodles. Every spoonful is a testament to the power of homemade goodness, a perfect remedy for a chilly evening, a bout of the sniffles, or simply a craving for authentic, soul-satisfying flavor. Prepare to immerse yourself in the comforting embrace of the very best chicken noodle soup you’ll ever taste.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, it was, without a doubt, my absolute favorite meal. Even today, regardless of the season – yes, even in the peak of summer – it remains my number one comfort food. There’s something undeniably magical about a bowl of this golden elixir that instantly transports me back to my childhood kitchen, filled with warmth and the comforting aroma of simmering goodness.
I distinctly remember my Mom preparing this soup when I was a little girl. Almost every time I ate it, I’d get the hiccups. Looking back, I realize it was probably because I was devouring it far too quickly, unable to resist its delicious charm! Those moments, etched in my memory, are part of what makes this soup so special to me.
My friend Lisa and I would spend countless hours in my play kitchen, our imaginations running wild. We’d fill my toy “soup kettle” with warm water and pretend to “cook” homemade chicken noodle soup on my miniature stove. It was the one dish we always made, a testament to its universal appeal even in our pretend culinary adventures. These early experiences ingrained a deep love for this particular comfort food, a tradition I’m thrilled to share with you.
The Ultimate Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Experience
This isn’t just any chicken soup; it’s an heirloom recipe, reminiscent of the nourishing bowls your grandma might have painstakingly prepared. This particular recipe takes the “homemade” concept to the next level by building flavor from the ground up – starting with a whole chicken and, for the truly adventurous, homemade egg noodles. If you’re seeking a quick 30-minute meal, this might not be your ideal choice. However, if you’re prepared to invest a little time – allowing the ingredients to slow-simmer for at least an hour – you’ll be rewarded with a depth of flavor that simply cannot be rushed. The vegetables soften to perfection, the chicken becomes incredibly tender, and the broth develops a richness that will genuinely soothe your soul and uplift your spirits.
This classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup serves as the perfect foundation for countless other delightful variations. If you adore deeply flavorful chicken noodle soup recipes, you’re sure to enjoy exploring these other comforting options: delve into the exotic flavors of Thai Chicken Noodle Soup, discover the speed and convenience of Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup, or savor the hearty essence of Italian Chicken Noodle Soup. Each offers a unique twist on the beloved classic, ensuring there’s a chicken soup for every craving and occasion.
Why This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Stands Out
This versatile chicken soup recipe is ideal for virtually any occasion. Whether it’s a brisk autumn evening, a lazy weekend lunch, a quick afternoon pick-me-up, or a nutritious meal to take to work or school, this soup consistently hits the spot. The profound flavors developed through slow cooking make it incredibly satisfying. To truly elevate the experience, be sure to serve your soup with some crusty bread. A good slice of no-knead Dutch oven bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich, savory broth, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. Plus, this soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping. Stash individual portions in your freezer, and you’ll always have a homemade hug ready whenever the craving strikes.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with the Best Broth
The secret to an unparalleled chicken noodle soup lies in its broth, and this recipe prioritizes depth of flavor. By starting with a fresh, whole chicken and combining it with quality chicken broth, you create a foundation that is incredibly rich and robust. I personally adore a generous amount of fresh, vibrant vegetables in my soup – they add not just flavor, but essential nutrients and a delightful texture. And to truly take your chicken noodle soup from excellent to extraordinary, consider making your own egg noodles. My simple and straightforward Homemade Egg Noodle Recipe is incredibly easy to follow and will undoubtedly elevate your homemade soup game, adding an authentic chewiness and flavor that store-bought varieties simply can’t match.
The Comforting Benefits of Chicken Soup: For Colds and Beyond
Chicken soup has long been revered as a go-to remedy when you’re feeling unwell, and for good reason. While it may not offer a miraculous “cure” for a cold, its numerous advantages can significantly help alleviate symptoms and support your recovery:
- Hydration is Key: The warm, flavorful broth is an excellent way to stay hydrated, which is absolutely crucial when battling an illness. Dehydration can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery, making soup a delicious and effective solution.
- Nutrient Boost: Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and protein derived from the chicken and vegetables, chicken soup provides valuable nutrients that are vital for supporting a healthy immune system. Your body needs these building blocks to fight off infection.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some studies suggest that ingredients commonly found in chicken soup, such as onions and garlic (which can be added to this recipe), may possess mild anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce discomfort associated with symptoms like a sore throat, nasal congestion, and general body aches.
- Natural Decongestant: The soothing steam rising from a hot bowl of soup acts as a natural decongestant. Inhaling this warm vapor can help clear nasal passages, ease sinus pressure, and make breathing much more comfortable. The warmth itself provides a comforting sensation to a raw or sore throat.
- Emotional Well-being: Beyond its physical benefits, chicken soup holds a powerful place as a classic comfort food. The nostalgic taste and warmth can provide a significant psychological boost, making you feel cared for and emotionally better during a time when your body is working hard to fight off infection. This emotional lift can be just as important as the physical relief.
In essence, while chicken soup may not shorten the duration of your cold, it certainly makes the journey more pleasant, helping you feel nourished, hydrated, and comforted.
And if you’re truly feeling under the weather and need another soothing remedy, don’t forget to try my Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea recipe! It’s another fantastic way to find warmth and relief.
Key Ingredients for the Best Easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Crafting a truly exceptional homemade chicken noodle soup starts with selecting quality ingredients. For the complete, detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Whole Chicken: This is the cornerstone of a deeply flavorful broth. Using a whole chicken, rather than just parts, allows all the bones, meat, and connective tissues to slowly release their rich flavors and collagen into the simmering liquid, creating an incomparable depth and body that simply cannot be replicated with boneless cuts. It’s the secret to an authentically rich homemade chicken stock.
- Onion: A medium-sized, chopped onion adds a foundational aromatic sweetness and savory depth to the broth. As it slowly cooks, it infuses the soup with a gentle, essential flavor base.
- Celery: Diced celery contributes a subtle, earthy, and slightly peppery note, rounding out the classic mirepoix (onion, celery, carrots) flavor profile that is synonymous with comforting soups.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots are indispensable, adding natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a pleasant, tender texture to the soup. They are also packed with vitamins, contributing to the soup’s nourishing qualities.
- Chicken Broth: While we’re building incredible flavor with a whole chicken, using a good quality store-bought chicken broth as a base provides an excellent head start. Alternatively, if you have the time, make your own homemade stock for an even richer result.
- Chicken Bouillon: This is your secret weapon for intensifying flavor. If you find your broth needs a little extra depth or a boost, a tablespoon or two of chicken bouillon granules can make a significant difference, especially if your chicken or broth isn’t as flavorful as desired.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out and balancing all the flavors in the soup. Always season to taste, adjusting throughout the cooking process.
- Water: Used to cover the chicken and vegetables, allowing them to simmer and release their essences into the liquid, forming the foundational stock.
- Egg Noodles: The quintessential noodle for chicken noodle soup. You can opt for high-quality frozen wide egg noodles for convenience, or for an unparalleled experience, follow my Homemade Egg Noodles recipe. Their texture and flavor are truly transformative.
Keep reading for invaluable tips, creative substitutions, and answers to all your common questions about mastering this incredible homemade chicken noodle soup recipe.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch
Creating this deeply satisfying homemade chicken noodle soup is a rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to build a rich, flavorful broth from a whole chicken:
- Prepare the Base: Carefully place the whole, raw chicken into a large soup pot, stockpot, or Dutch oven. Next, add your prepared vegetables: I typically cut my onion, celery, and carrots into fairly large pieces. This isn’t just for aesthetics; larger cuts hold their shape better during long simmering and are easier to strain out if you prefer a clearer broth.
- Season and Cover: Generously season the chicken and vegetables with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, then add enough cold water to fully cover all the ingredients, ensuring there are about 2-3 extra inches of liquid above them. This ensures proper simmering and enough liquid for your final soup.
- Simmer to Perfection: Cover the pot with a lid and bring the liquid to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook until the chicken is incredibly tender and literally falling off the bone. Depending on the size of your chicken, this usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half. This slow simmering process is key to developing a rich, deeply flavored broth.
- Prepare the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, discard the skin and bones. Shred or dice the tender chicken meat into bite-sized pieces and return it to the soup pot. At this stage, you can also fish out the large, softened vegetable pieces from the initial simmer and discard them if you prefer a clearer broth. Many people, myself included, enjoy keeping the original vegetables in for extra flavor and texture.
- Cook the Noodles: While your soup base is simmering, cook your egg noodles separately according to package directions until they are al dente. Drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess starch. Cooking noodles separately prevents the soup from becoming starchy and allows them to maintain their best texture.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked and drained noodles to the soup pot with the shredded chicken. Stir gently to combine. Allow the soup to heat through for a few minutes until the noodles are warm. Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve piping hot. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.
Leftover homemade chicken noodle soup stores exceptionally well. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. This makes it an ideal meal to prepare in a larger batch!
Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Over the years, I’ve gathered a few insights that can significantly enhance your chicken noodle soup, ensuring every batch is a “good batch”!
- Broth Enhancement: Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the broth might need a little extra oomph. If you find it tastes a bit bland after adding the chicken back, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning. Start by adding more salt and pepper, then consider dissolving a tablespoon or two of chicken bouillon granules. Just like my Mom and Grandma used to say, sometimes you just have to “blame the chicken” – and a little bouillon is an easy fix!
- Noodle Absorption: Be aware that egg noodles, especially homemade ones, will continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits, particularly when stored. If you’re planning on having leftovers, you might want to store the cooked noodles separately from the broth and chicken. When reheating, add the noodles just before serving, or be prepared to add a splash more chicken broth or water to thin the soup back to your desired consistency. We love our broth, so I always have extra on hand!
- Fat Management: If you’re mindful of your fat intake, a clever trick is to make the soup a day ahead. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate it overnight. The fat from the chicken will rise to the surface and solidify, making it incredibly easy to skim off before reheating and serving. This results in a lighter, yet still flavorful, broth.
- Al Dente Noodles: Always cook your noodles separately to an al dente stage – meaning they’re cooked through but still firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and break apart in the soup, affecting the texture.
- Aromatic Boost: To add even more layers of flavor to your simmering broth, consider throwing in a few bay leaves, a sprig of fresh thyme, fresh dill, or a couple of crushed garlic cloves alongside your vegetables. These aromatics will infuse the broth with wonderful herbaceous notes.
- Health-Conscious Options: If you need to manage sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth. You can then control the salt levels precisely to your preference.
- Clarifying the Broth: For a clearer broth, after removing the chicken, you can strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth before returning the shredded chicken. This removes any small bits of bone or vegetable remnants.
- Roasting Vegetables: For an even deeper, more complex flavor, consider lightly roasting your onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the pot. This caramelizes their natural sugars and adds a rich dimension to the soup.
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If you’re as passionate about this incredible homemade chicken noodle soup recipe as I am, make sure you don’t lose it! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board today so it’s always just a click away when you’re ready to create this comforting masterpiece!
Creative Substitutions and Variations
One of the joys of cooking homemade soup is the flexibility it offers. Don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity and tailor this recipe to perfectly suit your personal taste, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. Make it truly your own!
- Vary the Veggies: While the classic trio of carrots, celery, and onion is essential, feel free to expand! Add some corn, frozen peas, diced potatoes, spinach, or even chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. Fresh garlic and ginger, added with the initial vegetables, can also provide a wonderful aromatic kick and additional health benefits.
- Noodle Choices: Any type of noodle can work wonderfully in chicken soup. If you don’t have wide egg noodles, consider thin spaghetti broken into smaller pieces, rotini, ditalini, or even rice noodles for a lighter texture. Just remember to cook them separately and add them at the end to prevent starchiness and maintain texture.
- Broth Options: If you happen to have homemade chicken stock in your fridge or freezer, absolutely use it instead of store-bought broth for an even deeper flavor. Store-bought is perfectly fine, but homemade stock is always a fantastic upgrade.
- Chicken Alternatives: While a whole chicken creates the richest broth, you can certainly adapt. Use chicken thighs or boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quicker cooking. Simply poach them directly in the simmering broth until cooked through, then shred. You can also utilize leftover cooked chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken for an expedited version; just add the cooked chicken meat towards the end of cooking to warm through, ensuring you still get plenty of flavor from the broth base. Remember, cooking raw chicken directly in the broth will always yield the most profound flavor.
- Herb Garden Freshness: Beyond parsley, experiment with fresh herbs like dill, chives, or a sprig of rosemary for different flavor profiles. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a delightful warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mom’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- What is chicken noodle soup broth made of? In this recipe, the foundation of the chicken noodle soup broth is a good quality store-bought chicken broth, significantly enhanced by the slow simmering of a whole chicken and the addition of aromatic vegetables and seasonings. This creates a deeply layered and flavorful base.
- Should you cook chicken before making soup? Absolutely not! For maximum flavor, it’s highly recommended to cook the raw chicken directly in the broth or water. As the chicken simmers, it releases its juices and rich flavors into the liquid, contributing immensely to the overall depth and complexity of your homemade stock. Pre-cooking the chicken would mean missing out on this vital flavor development.
- Do you cook noodles before adding them to chicken soup? This is largely a matter of personal preference, but I strongly advocate for cooking the noodles separately before adding them to the soup. If you cook them directly in the soup, they will release starch, which can make your broth cloudy and alter its texture. Additionally, they will absorb a lot of the broth as they cook and sit, leading to mushier noodles and a less soupy consistency. Cooking them separately and adding them at the end ensures perfectly textured noodles and a clear, flavorful broth.
- What is the “secret ingredient” in truly great soup? Beyond the obvious ingredient of love, I find the true secret ingredient in my chicken soup is an exceptionally rich stock. This is precisely why a whole chicken is so crucial in this recipe. Simmering a whole chicken with fresh, aromatic vegetables for an extended period creates a profoundly flavorful and collagen-rich chicken stock that forms the very heart and soul of the soup.
- Is chicken stock the same as chicken broth? While often used interchangeably in home cooking, there’s a technical difference. Chicken stock is typically made by simmering chicken bones (and often some meat and vegetables) for a long period, resulting in a richer, gelatinous liquid due to the collagen released from the bones. Chicken broth, on the other hand, is usually made by simmering chicken meat (with fewer bones) and vegetables for a shorter time, resulting in a lighter, more savory liquid. Both work well, but stock generally provides more body.
- What to add to chicken noodle soup to make it better? If your broth is tasting a bit bland, first ensure you’ve seasoned adequately with salt and pepper. These are fundamental flavor enhancers. If it still lacks depth, consider adding a small amount of chicken bouillon or a splash of umami-rich ingredients like a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill, added at the end, can also brighten the flavor profile.
- Can you freeze homemade chicken noodle soup? Yes, absolutely! Homemade chicken noodle soup freezes exceptionally well. For best results, freeze the soup without the noodles, if possible, as noodles can become mushy upon thawing. However, it will still be delicious frozen with the noodles; just expect a slightly softer texture.
- Is homemade chicken soup healthy? Yes, homemade chicken soup is incredibly healthy! It’s brimming with lean protein from the chicken, essential vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables, and provides crucial hydration. When made from scratch with fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal that supports overall well-being.
Serving Suggestions for Your Comforting Bowl
While this homemade chicken noodle soup is a complete meal in itself, pairing it with a few complementary sides can elevate the dining experience:
- Crusty Bread: A thick slice of warm, crusty bread or a homemade roll is practically a requirement. It’s perfect for dipping into that rich broth and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing! A gooey grilled cheese sandwich provides a delightful textural contrast and makes for an iconic comfort food duo.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing counterpoint to the warmth and richness of the soup, adding a touch of brightness and extra vegetables.
- Crackers: For a quick and easy accompaniment, a handful of your favorite crackers are always a welcome addition, providing a satisfying crunch.
More Homemade Soup Recipes to Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting embrace of homemade soup, you’re in luck! My kitchen is always bubbling with delightful concoctions. For those who appreciate creamy, rich textures, you simply must try this luscious Broccoli Cheese Soup, the uniquely savory Cream of Reuben Soup, or the hearty and satisfying Creamy Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup.
If pasta-based soups are more your style, prepare to be amazed by the incredibly simple yet delicious Easiest Lasagna Soup, a deconstructed take on a beloved classic. And for a robust and flavorful meal, don’t miss this comforting Tortellini Soup With Sausage and Spinach. Each recipe promises to deliver warmth and flavor directly to your table.
Ready to explore more? See ALL of my Soup Recipes Here and find your next favorite comfort food!
This easy chicken noodle soup recipe is more than just ingredients combined in a pot; it’s an experience, a memory, and a warm hug in a bowl. In a world that often feels busy and demanding, taking the time to create something so wholesome and comforting for yourself and your loved ones is a truly special act. I’m thinking we could all use an extra hug today, and this soup is my way of sending one your way.
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Print Recipe
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
10 minutes
1 hour
1 hour 10 minutes
Soup
American
chicken soup, cures for colds, Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, homemade soup
8 servings
402kcal
Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- (12 inch) Stainless Steel Soup Ladle
- Stainless Steel Stock Pot with Lid, 8-Quart
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
Ingredients
- 1 large whole chicken
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 or 5 stalks celery diced
- 5 carrots peeled and sliced
- 32 ounces chicken broth
- 1 or 2 Tablespoons chicken bouillon granules optional
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Water
- 12 ounces Egg Noodles frozen or Homemade Egg Noodles
Instructions
- Place the whole chicken into your soup pot. Add in coarsely chopped onions, celery, and carrots.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken broth and fill with water to cover all ingredients, ensuring about 2 more inches of liquid above them.
- Cover with a lid. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle medium simmer. Cook until the chicken is tender and falls off the bone (approximately 1 to 1.5 hours).
- While your soup base is cooking, boil the egg noodles in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse them, then set aside.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Discard the skin and bones. Shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces and return the chicken meat to the soup.
- Add the cooked and drained noodles to the soup pot.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. For best results when freezing, consider freezing the broth and chicken separately from the noodles, adding fresh noodles when reheating.
Nutrition
Serving: 1
|
Calories: 402kcal
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Carbohydrates: 37g
|
Protein: 25g
|
Fat: 17g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
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Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
|
Trans Fat: 0.1g
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Cholesterol: 109mg
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Sodium: 574mg
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Potassium: 563mg
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
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Vitamin A: 6733IU
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Vitamin C: 6mg
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Calcium: 64mg
|
Iron: 2mg
This post was originally published on February 4th, 2012. It has been lovingly rewritten and updated to improve user experience, enhance clarity, and deepen the culinary insights, and was reshared on September 17, 2024.
My sweet pups, Gabby & Sully, were always close by when I first posted this recipe. They were my loyal audience, patiently waiting for any stray tidbits whenever I de-boned a chicken. As all beloved dogs eventually do, they both crossed over the rainbow bridge into heaven in 2015 and 2016. Their memory continues to bring warmth, just like a bowl of this soup. ❤︎