Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. It’s comforting, nourishing, and perfect for a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a soup that’s packed with flavor. Let’s dive in! — UH Student Found Dead On Campus: Investigation Ongoing
Why Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
- Superior Flavor: Homemade soup allows you to control every ingredient, resulting in a richer, more complex flavor than canned varieties.
- Healthier Option: You can avoid preservatives and excess sodium found in store-bought soups.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 12 cups of water
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the whole chicken, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones. Set the shredded chicken aside.
- Strain the Broth: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the vegetables and herbs. Return the broth to the pot.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring the broth to a boil, then add the egg noodles. Cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Combine and Serve: Add the shredded chicken back to the pot. Heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Use a Good Quality Chicken: The flavor of your broth will depend on the quality of the chicken.
- Don't Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy.
- Add a Bay Leaf: For extra flavor, add a bay leaf to the broth while it simmers. Remember to remove it before serving.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Lemon Chicken Noodle: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade chicken noodle soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal.
Health Benefits
Chicken noodle soup isn't just delicious; it's also good for you! It's a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The warm broth can help soothe a sore throat and clear congestion. — TV Show Preemption: What Does It Mean?
Conclusion
Making homemade chicken noodle soup is a simple yet rewarding experience. With this recipe, you can create a comforting and flavorful soup that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! — Andes' Highest Peak: Unlocking The Crossword Clue