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A perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup warms you from the inside out. This comforting dish has been cherished by home cooks for generations, and with good reason—it’s hearty, wholesome, and brings a little nostalgia with each spoonful. My version layers fragrant herbs and tender chicken to create a meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 6 ounces egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
To begin, warm the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables until they start to soften—usually about five minutes—stirring frequently so they cook evenly. Toss in the minced garlic, letting its aroma bloom for another minute.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken. Stir in the fresh thyme and drop in a bay leaf if you like a light, earthy note. Bring everything up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup bubble away for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to dance and mingle.
Stir in the egg noodles and continue simmering until they’re cooked to a tender bite (typically 6–8 minutes). Season the soup with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with a shower of fresh parsley for an extra pop of color.
This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, post-workout refueling, or a soothing meal when you’re feeling under the weather. Using whole-wheat pasta or adding extra veggies are easy ways to tailor it to your preferences. The herbs bring a gentle, woodsy depth, while the chicken and noodles hit all those comforting notes. Make it once and you’ll see why this recipe quickly becomes a cherished favorite in any home kitchen.
