Is there anything more comforting than a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup on a chilly evening? This recipe, crafted for the perfect cozy experience, uses a trusty Dutch oven to create a deeply flavorful broth and tender chicken. Forget those bland, store-bought versions – this easy recipe will become a family favorite in no time! It's a perfect example of healthy meals made delicious and simple.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 12 cups water
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Broth
Begin by placing the whole chicken (or chicken thighs) in your Dutch oven. Add water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Step 2: Simmering the Chicken
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds. If using bone-in chicken thighs, reduce simmering time to about 45 minutes. For extra flavor, consider adding a couple of sprigs of fresh herbs during simmering.
Step 3: Shredding the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the Dutch oven and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 4: Adding Noodles and Chicken
Return the shredded chicken to the Dutch oven. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serving your Delicious Soup
Once the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup:
- For a richer broth: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. The skin adds extra flavor and richness.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Follow package directions carefully to prevent mushy noodles.
- Add your favorite vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or green beans.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup: Add the juice of half a lemon to the soup at the end.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk before serving.
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
This easy chicken noodle soup recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. Enjoy!