Craving a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup? Forget the drive-thru! This recipe brings the deliciousness of Denny's famous chicken noodle soup right to your kitchen. It's easier than you think to make this homemade version, bursting with flavor and perfect for a cozy night in or a quick, healthy weeknight dinner. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated to a whole new level of deliciousness. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
- 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 dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a rich flavor base for your soup.
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Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, add the shredded chicken, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Cook the Noodles: Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Use high-quality broth: The broth is the foundation of your soup, so using a flavorful broth will make a big difference.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Cook them until they are just tender.
- Add your own twist: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup: Add the zest and juice 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 for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 20-25g Fat: 5-10g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and healthy chicken noodle soup is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy this comforting classic – it's sure to become a family favorite!