The ultimate meal when you’re feeling under the weather and need something nourishing and warming.
Like many American kids, my first experience with this staple soup was from the can. It was fantastic during my college years when I wanted a somewhat healthy and filling meal on a budget, but as I grew older, I started to wonder just how easy it was to make from scratch. It turns out it’s incredibly easy to make from scratch, and compared to this homemade recipe, Campbell’s tastes like warm saltwater!
This chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food. Brimming with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, its savory aroma has the power to soothe the soul and satisfy the taste buds. Whether you’re craving a classic family dinner or something to cozy up with on a rainy day, this dish delivers.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Passed down in various forms through countless kitchens, it’s one of those dishes where every family has their own spin. Some might remember a grandmother slipping in a sprig of dill, while others may reminisce about the splash of lemon juice their partner adds when serving.
Is Chicken Soup Healthy?
You bet! With a foundation of nutrient-rich vegetables, lean protein from the chicken, and a light broth, it’s a nourishing choice any time of the day. Chicken soup is often lauded for its ability to hydrate and provide vital nutrients, making it especially beneficial during colder months or when you’re under the weather.
Want to make your chicken soup even better for you? Consider making your own chicken stock from scratch to eliminate any unwanted additives. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach, kale, or zucchini. You can also cut out the salt if you’re on a low-sodium diet and replace it with low-sodium soy sauce for additional flavor.
The Perfect Bowl When You’re Sick
When you’re feeling under the weather, this chicken soup is the perfect remedy. To amplify its soothing powers, consider adding a teaspoon of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties, a pinch of freshly grated ginger for a bright immunity boost, and a small splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the broth and aid digestion.
For an extra boost of nutrients, stir in chopped spring onions at the end for a fresh burst of flavor. And if your stomach is upset, swap the egg noodles for cooked rice, as it can be gentler on the digestive system. These additions turn your traditional soup into a nourishing bowl of feel-good magic.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, bring it to a gentle simmer to avoid overcooking the noodles or drying out the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken soup is perfect on its own, but a piece of crusty bread like rye or sourdough is always a delicious side. Grilled cheese also hits the spot every time, like this Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese, this Brie Grilled Cheese With Apples, or a simple Air-Fryer Grilled Cheese. For something a little more experimental, try this Avocado Grilled Cheese Sandwich or an Egg Salad Grilled Cheese Sandwich. When I was growing up, I used to love my chicken soup with Air-Fryer Biscuits!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3 to 4 pounds) cut into parts
- 3 large carrots peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery diced
- 1 large onion peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 dried bay leaf
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken parts, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Season with a big pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Skim off any scum that appears on the surface.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let cool. Discard the bay leaf. Shred the chicken, discarding the bones and skin, and return the meat to the pot.
- Add egg noodles to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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