Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly evening? Look no further than this authentic Polish Chicken Noodle Soup recipe! This isn't just any chicken soup; it's a hearty, flavorful masterpiece bursting with tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich, savory broth that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, surprisingly easy to make, and ideal for a quick dinner idea. This recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations, and I’m excited to share it with you!
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 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Broth
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Place the chicken and water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through. This slow simmering process extracts maximum flavor, creating a truly delicious broth.
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Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
Step 2: Building the Flavor
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While the chicken is simmering, add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their flavors into the broth.
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Add the bay leaves, thyme, and marjoram. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don't be shy with the seasoning; this is where you build the depth of flavor in your soup.
Step 3: Adding Noodles and Chicken
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Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
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Stir in the shredded chicken.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
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Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
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Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, healthy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Polish Chicken Noodle Soup:
- For a richer broth, roast the chicken before simmering it in the soup.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water at the end of cooking.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with vegetable broth and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. This makes for a delicious and hearty vegetarian soup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Polish Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Polish Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving for a richer, creamier texture. This is especially delicious served alongside crusty bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Polish Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a true culinary treasure, perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy!