Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of year. This recipe will guide you through making a delicious homemade chicken noodle soup from scratch, packed with wholesome ingredients and flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, peeled and quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp whole peppercorns
- Salt, to taste
- 8 cups water or chicken broth
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Prepare the Chicken Broth:
- In a large pot, place the whole chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt.
- Pour in water or chicken broth to cover the chicken and vegetables.
- Simmer the Broth:
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove and Shred Chicken:
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat using two forks or your fingers, discarding the bones and skin.
- Cook the Noodles:
- While the chicken is cooling, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot. Discard the solids.
- Bring the strained broth back to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Combine Chicken and Noodles:
- Once the noodles are cooked, add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir to combine and heat through for a few minutes.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot chicken noodle soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients:
- Chicken: Provides a rich and flavorful broth as well as tender shredded meat, adding protein to the soup.
- Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion): Enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup, contributing to its hearty and comforting nature.
- Egg Noodles: Absorb the delicious broth and provide a satisfying texture to the soup.
Enjoy this homemade chicken noodle soup recipe as a nourishing meal that warms the soul, perfect for cozy dinners or when you need a comforting bowl of goodness.
