Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Simple chicken noodle soup recipe — that’s where my heart always comes back. Hi, I’m Amanda, the voice behind HealthyMealRecipe, and welcome to my kitchen. I’m 50 now, but I still remember standing by my grandmother as she stirred humble soups with love. Years later, through raising kids and busy days, I found my way back to cooking as comfort. That’s how this brand was born — a space for simple, healthy chicken recipes families can count on. With Lina by my side, we share meals that don’t need to be perfect, just nourishing, doable, and full of heart.

Why This Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Comfort in Every Spoon

Chicken noodle soup has been a family cure-all for generations because it truly feels like love in liquid form. The balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables makes it both nourishing and satisfying.

Easy to Make on Busy Days

This recipe requires just one pot and minimal prep time. It’s simple enough to throw together after work or while juggling kids.

Flexible and Forgiving

The beauty of chicken noodle soup lies in its adaptability. You can swap in frozen vegetables, leftover rotisserie chicken, or any noodles you have on hand.

Nourishment During Cold Season

A warm broth soothes sore throats and stuffy noses, while the carrots, celery, and onions provide immune-supporting nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Chicken and Broth

• 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh sprigs)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Noodles and Finish

• 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta you have)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Swaps

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of poaching your own.
• Try rice or orzo instead of egg noodles.
• Add peas, corn, or spinach for extra vegetables.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1 – Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic for one minute until fragrant.

Step 2 – Build the Broth

Pour in chicken broth, add bay leaves and thyme. Place chicken breasts into the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 3 – Cook the Chicken

Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 4 – Shred and Return

Remove chicken from the pot, shred with two forks, then return it to the simmering broth.

Step 5 – Add the Noodles

Stir in egg noodles and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 6 – Taste and Finish

Season with salt and pepper. Discard bay leaves and garnish with parsley before serving.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The Classic Mirepoix Base

The trio of onion, carrot, and celery—known as mirepoix—creates a savory foundation that makes the soup taste like it’s been simmering all day. Each vegetable brings its own strength: onion for sweetness, carrot for subtle earthiness, and celery for a gentle bitterness that balances everything out.

Simmered Chicken for Richness

Poaching chicken in the broth instead of cooking it separately pulls flavor into every sip. The chicken stays tender and juicy, while the broth gets richer as it absorbs those natural juices.

Noodles Cooked in Broth

Cooking noodles right in the pot gives them a chance to soak up all the goodness. Instead of tasting like plain pasta, they become plump little carriers of savory broth.

Herbs for Balance

Bay leaves and thyme may seem small, but they make a huge difference. They give the soup a subtle earthy aroma that feels homemade and grounding without overpowering the other flavors.

Fresh Parsley Brightens

Parsley is the final lift—its fresh, green bite cuts through the warmth of the broth, keeping each spoonful lively instead of heavy.

Variations and Adaptations

Slow Cooker Method

If your day is packed, the slow cooker takes over. Add the vegetables, broth, herbs, and raw chicken to the pot. Let it cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4. Shred the chicken, then stir in noodles about 20 minutes before serving.

Gluten-Free Swap

No need to miss out—use gluten-free pasta, brown rice, or even quinoa. Each option soaks up broth differently, giving you flexibility depending on your needs.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

For a cozier, richer version, stir in half a cup of cream or milk just before serving. It transforms the broth into a velvety base that clings to every noodle.

Extra Veggie Boost

This soup welcomes additions. Frozen peas, sweet corn, or a handful of fresh spinach stirred in at the end add color, nutrients, and texture without complicating the recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Noodles

Egg noodles soften quickly. If you let them sit too long, they’ll swell and break apart. Cook them until just tender, knowing they’ll continue to soften slightly as the soup rests.

Skipping the Seasoning

Broth can vary in saltiness, so always taste as you go. A pinch of salt and pepper at the right time transforms the flavor from flat to comforting.

Rushing the Chicken

Shredded chicken only happens if you give it time. If you rush and pull it out too early, it will be tough and stringy instead of tender.

Forgetting to Remove Bay Leaves

Bay leaves work wonders during cooking, but biting into one is like chewing on a bitter twig. Always remember to scoop them out before ladling into bowls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?

Yes! But for the best results, freeze the soup without noodles. Pasta tends to turn mushy once thawed. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

How long does chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen, making it even tastier the next day.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Warm the soup slowly on the stove over medium-low heat. Add an extra splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

Can I make it with leftover turkey?

Absolutely. Swap in cooked, shredded turkey for the chicken. It’s a great way to reinvent holiday leftovers into something cozy and new.

Final Encouragement

There’s something deeply comforting about knowing you can pull a pot of warmth together with just a few simple ingredients. This soup isn’t about perfection—it’s about feeding the people you love, even when you’re tired. Let it remind you that small, homemade moments often mean the most.