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How to Make Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

Published: Dec 16, 2025

Chicken Noodle Soup - Tender chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles simmer in a flavorful, golden broth. This classic comfort food soothes and satisfies. Using a whole chicken to make the broth from scratch yields the most rich and flavorful result, but shortcuts like store-bought broth work well too.

Chicken Noodle Soup - Chicken noodle soup was the only thing I wanted when I was sick as a kid, but the canned version always disappointed. Making my own broth from scratch takes 90 minutes, but that rich, golden liquid is medicine for the soul. I love how the house smells while it simmers. It's the recipe I make for friends when they're under the weather.

Dietary Notes
  • ✓ Ultimate Comfort Food
  • ✓ Homemade Broth
  • ✓ Feeds a Crowd
  • ✓ Make-Ahead Friendly

Why You'll Love This

  • Homemade Broth: Deep, rich flavor from simmering bones.
  • Tender Chicken: Poaching in the broth keeps it moist.
  • Healing Properties: Warm broth is soothing.
  • Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze.
Note Image

Chicken Noodle Soup

👩‍🍳 Author: Chef Nour
Prep Time: 30min
❄️ Cool Time: 0
🔥 Cook Time: 60min
🥨 Yield: 8
🍞 Method: Simmering
🌾 Diet: None
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restaurant Ingredients

  • 3-4 lbs whole chicken or chicken parts
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • a few sprigs fresh thyme or dill
  • 1 bay leaf
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 8-10 cups water or chicken broth
  • for garnish parsley, chopped
✏️

Ingredient Notes:

  • Whole chicken or chicken parts Bone-in chicken makes richer broth and deeper flavor. Boneless is faster but less savory.
  • Carrots Carrots add sweetness and classic soup color. Slice evenly so they soften at the same time.
  • Celery stalks Celery adds aromatic base flavor. It is part of the classic mirepoix for chicken soup.
  • Yellow onion Onion builds savory sweetness and makes broth taste homemade. Saute first for deeper flavor.
  • Egg noodles Egg noodles cook fast and stay tender. Add at the end so they do not get mushy.
  • Garlic, minced Garlic adds warmth and aroma. Add after vegetables so it stays fragrant, not bitter.
  • Fresh thyme or dill Herbs add fresh comfort-food aroma. Thyme is classic; dill gives a brighter, Eastern-European vibe.
  • Bay leaf Bay leaf adds subtle depth to broth. Remove before serving for clean texture.
  • Salt and black pepper Season gradually. Proper salt makes broth taste rich; pepper adds gentle warmth.
  • Water or chicken broth Broth makes flavor stronger; water is lighter. Either works, but simmering with chicken builds homemade taste.
  • Parsley, chopped Parsley adds fresh finish and color. Add at the end for the best flavor and presentation.

list_alt Instructions

  1. 1
    If using a whole chicken, place it in a large pot. Cover with water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam that rises. Simmer for 1 hour.
  2. 2
    Remove chicken and let cool slightly. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve. Discard skin and bones, shred the meat. Set meat aside. (If using boneless chicken, simply poach it in the broth for 15-20 minutes, then shred.)
  3. 3
    Return the strained broth to the pot. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  4. 4
    Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  5. 5
    Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 more minutes to heat through.
  6. 6
    Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. 7
    Serve hot in bowls.

Nutrition Facts

content_copy
Calories 240
Protein 18g
Carbs 25g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 4g
Fat 8g
Sodium 380mg
Potassium N/A
🍽️

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot in deep bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill. A squeeze of lemon juice just before eating brightens the flavors. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping. The soup is a complete meal on its own.

How to Store?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb broth, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Freeze for up to 3 months, but note that the noodles may become mushy upon thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

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