Timeless Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless recipe that combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. With tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, this soup is hearty enough for a meal yet light enough to enjoy any time of year.

This recipe is made from scratch using fresh vegetables, quality chicken, and herbs for seasoning. It’s ready in under an hour, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or weekend cooking. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal, a make-ahead option for busy days, or a healthy recipe to keep on hand, chicken noodle soup is always a reliable favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Simple ingredients, big flavor – made with everyday staples like chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and noodles, yet packed with savory taste.
• Quick and easy – ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish, with minimal prep.
• Nutritious and filling – a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs makes this soup both hearty and wholesome.
• Customizable – you can swap in chicken thighs, different noodles, or even add extra vegetables to suit your taste.
• Perfect for leftovers – stores well in the fridge and freezer, making it a practical recipe for meal prep.
• Family-friendly – mild, flavorful, and loved by both kids and adults.

This combination of simplicity, taste, and flexibility is what makes chicken noodle soup a go-to recipe for many kitchens.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare a flavorful chicken noodle soup at home, you only need a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what goes into the recipe and why each ingredient is important:

• Chicken breast (1 lb, cooked and shredded): Provides lean protein and tender bites in every spoonful. For richer flavor, you can substitute with chicken thighs.
• Chicken broth (8 cups): The base of the soup. A good-quality low-sodium broth works best so you can control the salt level. Homemade stock will give an even deeper flavor.
• Egg noodles (2 cups): Traditional wide egg noodles hold up well in the broth and give the soup its hearty texture.
• Carrots (2, sliced): Add natural sweetness, color, and nutrients.
• Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Brings freshness and a subtle savory flavor that balances the soup.
• Onion (1, diced): Enhances the flavor foundation of the broth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aroma and depth to the soup.
• Dried thyme (1 tsp): A classic herb for chicken soup that complements the vegetables and broth. Fresh thyme can also be used.
• Olive oil or butter (1 tbsp): Used to sauté the vegetables and build flavor.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

These ingredients work together to create a balanced soup that is nourishing, flavorful, and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions for the best results when making homemade chicken noodle soup:

Step 1: Cook and shred the chicken

• Place chicken breasts in a pot of lightly salted water.
• Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
• Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred it with two forks. Set aside.
  (Shortcut: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken if you want to save time.)

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

• In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery.
• Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the broth

• Pour in the 8 cups of chicken broth.
• Add 1 tsp dried thyme, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Add noodles and chicken

• Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the egg noodles to the pot.
• Cook the noodles for 6–8 minutes, or according to the package instructions, until tender.
• Stir in the shredded chicken and let it simmer for an additional 3–4 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Taste and finish

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
• Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips and Variations

• Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at the end for a creamy chicken noodle soup.
• Add extra veggies: Mushrooms, peas, or corn can add variety.
• Use rotisserie chicken: A quick shortcut to save cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.