Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Alix Earle-inspired chicken noodle soup recipe is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This healthy meal is a family favorite, packed with flavor and guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied. It’s the ultimate homemade cooking experience, perfect for even the busiest schedules!
Ingredients:
This recipe provides a fantastic base, easily adaptable to your taste and what you have on hand. Let’s get started!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
This easy recipe is broken down into simple steps, perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This simple step builds a delicious flavor base for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. This is where you can really customize the flavors – feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the boiling broth. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Step 4: Add the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. If you’re using leftover chicken, this is a great way to use it up and minimize food waste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade delicious dish!
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Add some veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or peas.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end for a creamier texture.
- Meal prep friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Variations:
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup: Add the juice and zest of half a lemon at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Chicken Noodle Soup with Dumplings: Add homemade or store-bought dumplings during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This easy recipe is a great example of delicious and healthy meals that you can whip up quickly. It's perfect for a quick dinner idea or a comforting weekend lunch, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy this comforting classic, and don't hesitate to share your own variations and experiences in the comments below!