The Best Chicken Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, filled with wholesome ingredients and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s not just easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable. Whether you’re craving something simple or want to amp up the flavors with herbs and spices, this soup can be tailored to your taste. Plus, it’s made with fresh, healthy ingredients that provide a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a quick lunch, or just to soothe a sick day, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 1/2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer the soup for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. While the soup is simmering, cook the egg noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside.

7. Add the cooked noodles to the soup and stir to combine.

8. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

9. Before serving, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten up the soup, if desired.

10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

1. Use different pasta: Instead of egg noodles, try other types like rice, quinoa, or any small pasta like shells or elbow macaroni.

2. Add greens: Throw in some spinach, kale, or peas for extra color and nutrition.

3. Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richer texture.

4. Spicy chicken soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chilies for some heat.

5. Herb variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can provide a different depth of flavor if you prefer fresh over dried.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When freezing, omit the noodles as they can become mushy once thawed. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat. You may need to add a bit more broth or water if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option as it adds flavor and saves you time. Just shred the meat and add it to the soup!

Can I make this soup without noodles?

Absolutely! You can make this a low-carb version by skipping the noodles and adding more vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower rice.

How can I make the soup thicker?

You can thicken the soup by adding a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with water, or you can blend a small portion of the soup and then return it to the pot.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be substituted for fresh. Just add them directly to the pot without thawing, and they will cook as the soup simmers.

How do I add more flavor to the broth?

Consider adding a splash of white wine, a dash of soy sauce, or a teaspoon of miso paste to intensify the broth’s flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the broth and chicken mixture separately from the noodles.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Just add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this soup and will add extra flavor and tenderness.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting too soft?

If you’re making the soup in advance, it’s best to cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft in the soup.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This chicken soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s full of comfort and flavor. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any season. Whether you’re serving it to the whole family or enjoying a quiet bowl for yourself, it’s sure to hit the spot every time. With its rich broth, tender chicken, and a variety of vegetable options, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion.