Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Comforting Warmth

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Introduction

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, comfort food is a welcome embrace. There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of hearty chicken noodle soup to warm you from the inside out. This classic American dish combines tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and satisfying noodles, making it a go-to for cold days or when you need a pick-me-up. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as this soup simmers is hard to resist, promising a delightful meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.

Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup is often associated with family gatherings, cozy dinners, and even those moments when you’re feeling under the weather. Its rich broth and tender ingredients always seem to bring a sense of relief and happiness. Making this soup at home is easier than you might think, allowing you to control the quality of ingredients and tailor the flavors to your liking. With just a few simple steps, you can create a wholesome meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills your home with warmth and love.

When the weather turns chilly or when you want to enjoy a simplified yet nourishing meal, reach for this Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup recipe. It is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, beloved by family and friends alike.

Recipe Overview

– Prep Time: 10 minutes

– Cook Time: 30 minutes

– Total Time: 40 minutes

– Course: Soup

– Cuisine: American

– Servings: 6

– Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Ingredients

The ingredient list is both simple and accessible, showcasing the goodness of fresh produce and lean chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken and Broth

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)

– 2 cups water

Vegetables

– 2 medium carrots, sliced into thin rounds

– 2 celery stalks, chopped into small pieces

– 1 small onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pasta

– 2 cups egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)

Garnish

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and fragrant.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic flavor.

3. Introduce the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, water, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, then bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil.

4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, mixing it well with the broth and vegetables.

6. Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente and tender.

7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. Once done, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.

8. Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Sautéing the Vegetables

The preparation begins with a simple yet crucial step—sautéing the vegetables. By starting with this process, you’re laying the groundwork for a flavor-packed soup. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, allowing it to warm up. When the oil is shimmering, add the finely diced onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. These ingredients will release their natural sweetness and create a robust flavor base. Cook them for approximately five minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. This step not only softens the vegetables but also enhances the aroma, making your kitchen smell wonderfully inviting.

Next, introduce minced garlic to the mix. Garlic adds a signature warmth and depth of flavor, elevating your soup from good to outstanding. Allow it to cook for an additional minute, just until you start to smell that irresistible garlicky aroma. This is an essential stage of the soup-making process, as it sets the tone for the dish.

Adding Chicken, Broth, and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are tender and fragrant, it’s time to add the chicken and the rest of the liquid ingredients. Introduce the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot, nestling them among the soft vegetables. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and water, ensuring there’s enough liquid to create a rich and comforting broth. Season with dried thyme, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper, stirring everything to combine.

The next step is crucial—bring this delightful mixture to a rolling boil. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and cooks the chicken thoroughly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Setting it to simmer for about 20 minutes will render the chicken moist and tender, making it easy to shred later.

Shredding the Chicken

The soup takes on a whole new character once the chicken is cooked. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot to a cutting board. This is where the convenience of the two-fork shredding technique comes into play. Shredding the chicken allows it to blend seamlessly with the broth and vegetables, creating a harmonious mixture of textures and flavors. After shredding, return the chicken to the pot, stirring it in with the broth and veggies to ensure every spoonful is packed with goodness.

Cooking the Noodles

With the chicken now incorporated, it’s time to add a comforting staple—egg noodles. They will not only add heartiness to your soup but will also absorb the delicious flavors of the broth as they cook. Bring the soup back to a gentle heat and allow the noodles to cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until they reach the perfect al dente state. It’s important to taste the noodles to ensure they have just the right amount of bite.

As you approach the finishing touches, taste the soup one last time. This is your opportunity to adjust the seasoning, enhancing its flavor profile to perfectly suit your palate. If you desire more salt or pepper, don’t hesitate to add it in, ensuring each bowl will be flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

After allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes off the heat, it’s finally time to serve. Ladle the hot, enticing soup into rustic bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. The fresh herb brightens the dish, making it visually appealing while complementing the warm flavors of the soup. For an extra touch, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread on the side, making for a complete and satisfying meal that evokes warmth and comfort.

Within this article, you’ll find all the fundamental elements to creating a heartwarming bowl of Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup that is sure to induce feelings of relaxation and contentment. Its wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an ideal choice for any occasion.

occasionally to ensure even warming. This method helps keep the noodles firm and the broth rich.

Microwave

If you opt for the microwave, transfer a portion of the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely to prevent splatters and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even heating.

Nutrition Breakdown

Understanding the nutritional value of your hearty chicken noodle soup can aid in making informed dietary choices. Each serving is approximately 250 calories, making it a suitable option for a light, nutritious meal.

Key Nutrients

The ingredients contribute various essential nutrients:

– Protein: Sourced primarily from the chicken, which aids in muscle repair and immune function.

– Carbohydrates: The egg noodles provide a quick source of energy, while the vegetables contribute dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health.

– Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots and celery are rich in vitamins A and K, while garlic adds beneficial antioxidants and can promote heart health.

Caloric Distribution

The approximate caloric distribution per serving is as follows:

– Protein: 30-35%

– Carbohydrates: 45-50%

– Fats: 15-20%

Variations to Explore

While the classic recipe is comforting, you can personalize it with numerous variations.

Vegetable Additions

Incorporate additional vegetables such as green beans, peas, or spinach for more color and nutrition. These veggies not only enhance the flavor but also increase the fiber content, making the soup even heartier.

Different Noodle Types

Experiment with various types of noodles, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spiralized zucchini for a lower-carb option. Each choice brings its unique twist while still complementing the savory broth.

Flavor Profile Adjustments

For a more robust taste, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce. This can invigorate the soup and provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.

Changing Protein Sources

For a different protein source, you might substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker alternative, or use turkey for a variation on flavor.

Ideal Occasions for Chicken Noodle Soup

This chicken noodle soup is not just a meal; it can be a comforting experience for various occasions.

Sick Days

This soup is renowned for its comforting qualities, making it a go-to dish for when feeling under the weather. The warm broth soothes the throat, while the nutrients support recovery.

Family Gatherings

Serve this hearty soup during family gatherings or casual dinners. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, with a homely feel that brings everyone together.

Cozy Nights In

On a chilly evening, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. Pair it with your favorite movie or book for the ultimate cozy night.

Conclusion

This hearty chicken noodle soup is a timeless recipe that delivers warmth and flavor in every bowl. Its ease of preparation and comforting ingredients make it not only a go-to dish for families but also a versatile meal that can be adjusted to suit various preferences. Embrace this recipe and enjoy its deliciousness in good company or during quiet moments of solitude.

Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Comforting Warmth

This hearty chicken noodle soup is a warm and comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. It's made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles in a flavorful broth.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium carrots sliced into thin rounds
• 2 stalks celery chopped
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery; sauté for 5 minutes.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Add chicken breasts, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until chicken is cooked.
• Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
• Add egg noodles and cook for 7-10 minutes until tender.
• Adjust seasoning if needed, then remove from heat.
• Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

Serve with warm, crusty bread for a complete meal.

Keyword chicken, comfort food, homemade, noodles, soup

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