Craving warmth and comfort? Nothing quite compares to a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. This classic recipe brings a nostalgic hug to your kitchen, filling your home with inviting aromas. You can easily achieve incredible homemade flavor with minimal effort. Our recipe highlights the simplicity of creating a comforting meal, making it perfect for busy parents and beginners alike.

Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup

Unmatched Flavor: Experience a richness a canned variety simply cannot replicate.
Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: You likely have most items in your pantry already.
Rotisserie Chicken Hack: Use pre-cooked chicken for incredibly quick prep.
Hearty & Nourishing: Packed with protein and vegetables, it warms you from the inside out.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully.
Endlessly Customizable: Adjust ingredients and seasonings to suit your family’s taste.

Ingredients

Making delicious chicken noodle soup starts with quality ingredients. This list combines pantry staples with fresh additions to create a hearty, flavorful broth and tender, satisfying noodles. We focus on straightforward items for a quick and easy cooking experience that beginners will appreciate.

1/2 Tablespoon butter
2 ribs celery, diced
3-4 large carrots, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
10 cups chicken stock or broth*
1 teaspoon salt, to taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary, or more, to taste
1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 batch homemade egg noodles, or 4 cups dry egg noodles, farfalle, or other bite-size pasta*
3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded*
1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor, or chicken bouillon granules (optional, for depth)

Notes & Substitutions

Chicken Broth/Stock: Use homemade stock for the deepest flavor. Good quality store-bought broth works well too. If using store-bought, a spoonful of Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor significantly enhances richness and savory depth.

Chicken Meat: Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe incredibly fast. Alternatively, use leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs. You can also cook raw chicken in the broth before adding vegetables, then shred it.

Noodles: Homemade egg noodles are wonderful, but feel free to use store-bought dry egg noodles, farfalle, elbow macaroni, or rotini. Cook them until al dente.

Vegetables: Add a diced yellow onion along with the celery and carrots. Parsnips or small diced potatoes also make great additions for extra heartiness in your chicken noodle soup.

Herbs & Seasoning: Fresh parsley or dill brightens the soup if stirred in at the end. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference as you cook.

Gluten-Free Option: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta or gluten-free flour for homemade noodles to enjoy this comforting meal.

Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to make this delightful chicken noodle soup. These items are likely already in your kitchen, making the cooking process smooth and simple.

Large stock pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Ladle

Instructions

Creating this comforting chicken noodle soup is a breeze with our easy-to-follow steps. Pay close attention to seasoning and noodle cooking times for the best results. This recipe focuses on simplicity, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics. First, melt the butter in your large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced celery and carrots, cooking them for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
Step 2: Build the Broth. Pour in the 10 cups of chicken stock or broth. Season the broth with dried rosemary, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a subtle warmth. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Now, taste the broth. If it needs more savory depth, stir in 1 teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor or a bouillon cube/granules, adjusting to your preference.
Step 3: Add Noodles. Bring the seasoned broth to a rolling boil. Add your noodles next. If using homemade egg noodles, add them uncooked. If using store-bought dry pasta, add it now. Cook the noodles just until they reach an al dente texture. This is crucial for excellent chicken noodle soup. As soon as they are barely tender, remove the pot from the heat. Remember, the noodles will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat, preventing them from becoming mushy.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken. Stir in the 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken meat into the hot soup. The residual heat will warm the chicken through perfectly.

To ensure your chicken noodle soup is safe to eat, always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), as recommended by food safety guidelines.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve. Taste the chicken noodle soup once more. Adjust any seasonings like salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. This warm, delicious meal is ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Don’t Overcook Noodles: Remove the pot from heat as soon as noodles are al dente. They will keep cooking, and you want them firm, not mushy.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your broth throughout the cooking process. Season generously with salt and pepper; flavor builds in layers.
Fresh Herbs Finish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill right before serving adds brightness and a pop of color to your chicken noodle soup.
Homemade Stock is Key: Using homemade chicken stock elevates the flavor profile significantly. It truly makes a difference.
Rotisserie Chicken Hack: This is a fantastic shortcut! It provides delicious cooked chicken and can even offer bones to make a quick stock later.
Boost Flavor with Bouillon: If using store-bought broth, a teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon or chicken bouillon granules adds an incredible depth of savory flavor.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile chicken noodle soup is perfect for any occasion. It stores well and offers many ways to customize, ensuring it always hits the spot.

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your comforting chicken noodle soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. Crackers are another classic accompaniment. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple green salad.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Ensure the chicken was fresh when added.

Freezing Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for 2-3 months. If you plan to freeze, slightly undercook the noodles to prevent them from becoming too soft upon reheating. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Make Ahead Tips: Prepare the broth and cook the shredded chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine, bring to a simmer, and then cook the noodles fresh. This keeps your noodles perfectly textured.

Variations:

Add More Vegetables: Stir in a handful of frozen peas, corn, or fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
Spicy Version: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes to your desired heat level for a warming kick.
Creamy Version: For a richer soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.

Nutrition Information

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a wonderful choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. Unlike many store-bought versions, you control the ingredients, allowing you to limit sodium and unhealthy additives. It provides a lean source of protein from the chicken, essential vitamins from the carrots and celery, and carbohydrates for energy from the noodles. This classic dish offers a balanced nutritional profile, perfect for a wholesome family dinner.

Medical experts at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center note that chicken noodle soup can help clear nasal congestion and ease cold symptoms, due to its beneficial nutrients and hydrating properties.

Nutrition	Value
Calories	206 kcal
Carbohydrates	14 g
Protein	23 g
Fat	6 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	1 g
Monounsaturated Fat	3 g
Trans Fat	0.1 g
Cholesterol	58 mg
Sodium	934 mg
Potassium	587 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	6 g
Vitamin A	4606 IU
Vitamin C	3 mg
Calcium	31 mg
Iron	1 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different types of chicken for this chicken noodle soup?
A: Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can use cooked chicken breast, thighs, or even leftover roasted chicken. Simply shred or dice it before adding it to the soup.

Q: What noodles work best in chicken noodle soup?
A: Homemade egg noodles offer an unparalleled texture. However, dry store-bought egg noodles, farfalle, elbow macaroni, or rotini are all excellent choices. Pick a bite-sized pasta that holds up well in broth.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! Prepare the broth and chicken a day or two in advance. Store them separately, then combine and cook the noodles fresh right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

Q: Is this chicken noodle soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, it freezes beautifully. If you plan to freeze it, cook the noodles slightly less than al dente. This helps them maintain their texture when reheated after thawing.

Q: How can I make my broth more flavorful?
A: For the richest flavor, use homemade chicken stock. Adding a teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon or a Parmesan rind to the simmering broth can also greatly enhance the savory depth of your chicken noodle soup.

Conclusion

This ultimate homemade chicken noodle soup recipe proves that incredible flavor does not require complicated steps. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a comforting meal that tastes infinitely better than anything from a can. We encourage you to try this recipe, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the heartwarming results. Share your creations with us or explore more quick and easy recipes!

“For more cozy comfort food ideas, visit our Facebook page for daily inspiration. You can also find more easy recipes on our Pinterest boards to keep your meals exciting.”