A Comforting Classic!
When the chill of fall sets in or you’re craving a wholesome, hearty meal, homestyle chicken noodle soup is the go-to solution. This dish has been a beloved staple for generations, offering both comfort and nourishment. With simple yet flavorful ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe that brings warmth to any table. We’re here to walk you through every step, ensuring your soup comes out perfectly every time.
Why Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
There’s something undeniably satisfying about making soup from scratch. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade chicken noodle soup allows you to control every aspect of flavor, from the richness of the broth to the texture of the vegetables and noodles. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use fresh ingredients and bring a sense of tradition into your home.
Key Ingredients for Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this classic dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding depth of flavor.
- Onion, Carrots, and Celery: The trio of diced vegetables that form the base of the soup, also known as mirepoix, giving the dish its signature savory taste.
- Garlic: Adds an aromatic layer, enhancing the flavor profile of the broth.
- Chicken Stock: The heart of the soup, providing rich and nourishing liquid. Opt for high-quality chicken stock to enhance the flavor.
- Bay Leaves: These provide an earthy, herbal note that balances the richness of the soup.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and adjusting the taste to your preference.
- Bone-in, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cooking the chicken directly in the soup allows the meat to soak up all the flavors, while the bones infuse extra richness into the broth.
- Wide Egg Noodles: A hearty pasta that holds up well in the broth without getting too soggy.
- Fresh Parsley and Dill: These herbs give the soup a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity from freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness.
Step-by-Step Preparation for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup
- Sautéing the Vegetables Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and release their natural sweetness but not brown them.
- Adding Garlic and Aromatics After the vegetables have softened, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to overcook it, as garlic can turn bitter if burnt.
- Simmering the Broth Now, pour in 8 cups of chicken stock. Add 2 bay leaves and season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the broth to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. At this point, carefully place the 2 ½ pounds of bone-in, skinless chicken breasts into the pot.
- Cooking the Chicken Allow the chicken to cook in the broth, covered, for about 30-40 minutes. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld while the chicken cooks to perfection. Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once cooled, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding any bones.
- Cooking the Egg Noodles With the chicken set aside, add 2 ½ cups of wide egg noodles to the pot. Cook the noodles in the simmering broth for about 6-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite. This will prevent them from becoming mushy in the soup.
- Bringing Everything Together Once the noodles are cooked, return the diced chicken to the pot. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill, and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. The fresh herbs and lemon juice add a bright, fresh finish that complements the richness of the broth.
- Serve and Enjoy Your homestyle chicken noodle soup is now ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy immediately. This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread or even a light salad on the side.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use High-Quality Stock: The better the stock, the richer and more flavorful your soup will be. Homemade chicken stock is ideal, but if you’re using store-bought, look for low-sodium options so you can control the salt levels.
- Don’t Rush the Chicken: Cooking the chicken low and slow ensures it stays moist and tender. Bone-in chicken adds an extra layer of flavor that boneless just can’t match.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Adding fresh parsley and dill right at the end keeps the soup tasting bright and fresh. Dry herbs don’t deliver the same punch.
- Customize Your Noodles: While wide egg noodles are traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta types. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to suit your choice.
- Storing and Reheating: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days. If reheating, be sure to add a splash of chicken stock or water, as the noodles tend to soak up the liquid over time.
The Perfect Comfort Dish for Any Occasion
There’s a reason homestyle chicken noodle soup is a timeless favorite—it’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold evening, nurse a cold, or simply enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness, this recipe delivers every time. With its perfect balance of rich broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, it’s a dish that speaks to the soul.