one pot chicken noodle soup easy recipes

One Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Easy Recipes have always been close to my heart because they remind me why I fell in love with cooking in the first place. Hi, I’m Laura — a home cook who learned through curiosity, friendship, and a lot of joyful kitchen experiments. My friend and I used to spend evenings trying recipes like this one, laughing when things didn’t go perfectly. That’s when I discovered that cooking isn’t about perfection; it’s about warmth, comfort, and connection. This simple, nourishing soup captures that spirit — real food for real life, made with love and a smile.

Serving Versatility one pot chicken noodle soup easy recipes

This one pot chicken noodle soup is the ultimate kitchen chameleon. Serve it steaming hot in big bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a cozy family dinner, or ladle it into a thermos for a nourishing lunch on the go. You can even pour it over cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier spin, or skip the noodles entirely for a low-carb, veggie-packed version.
On lazy weekends, I love adding a flaky biscuit on the side — almost like a lighter, soupy cousin of a chicken pot pie. However you serve it, it’s warm, flexible, and utterly comforting.

Ingredients (Detailed & Humanized)

2 boneless chicken breasts: Lean, tender, and cook up quickly — the perfect base for a light yet satisfying soup. You can swap in chicken thighs if you prefer a richer, heartier flavor.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds that gorgeous golden sear and brings a gentle, heart-healthy richness to the pot.

1 small onion, diced: The quiet hero of any soup. It builds the aromatic foundation that makes the whole kitchen smell like home.

2 carrots, sliced: Sweet and cheerful — they add warmth, color, and that familiar coziness we all crave in a comforting bowl.

2 celery stalks, chopped: A subtle crunch and a hint of freshness that balances the sweetness of the carrots perfectly.

3 garlic cloves, minced: Bold and warming, garlic deepens the flavor of the broth and gives that irresistible homemade touch.

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The nourishing heart of this dish. It ties every flavor together and makes each spoonful feel restorative.

1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that brings calm, soothing notes — like a soft blanket wrapped around the soup.

½ teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy, aromatic, and grounding. It layers in that little something special you can taste but can’t quite name.

1 bay leaf: Just one leaf infuses the broth with subtle savory depth — remove it before serving, but let it work its quiet magic first.

6 ounces egg noodles: Tender, slurpy, and oh-so-satisfying. They soak up all that flavorful broth and make the soup feel like a hug.

Salt and pepper, to taste: Don’t skip this part! A little seasoning brings every ingredient to life and keeps your broth balanced.

Fresh parsley, chopped: Bright, fragrant, and beautiful — it’s the finishing touch that makes your soup look and taste fresh from the heart.

Directions (Step-by-Step Cooking Guide)

1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers. Add chicken breasts and sear on each side for about 3 minutes until golden. This step locks in flavor and adds richness to your broth.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the kitchen starts to smell heavenly.
3. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and the bay leaf. Let them bloom for 30 seconds — you’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the herbs waking up.
4. Pour in the broth: Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom — those are flavor gold. Return the chicken breasts to the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer to perfection: Lower the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The soup should start to smell like pure comfort by now.
6. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
7. Cook the noodles: Add the egg noodles directly into the simmering soup and cook for 6–7 minutes until tender.
8. Finish with freshness: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in chopped parsley before serving for that final burst of brightness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick to make: Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
✅ Budget-friendly: Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
✅ Cozy, homemade flavor: Feels like grandma’s soup but easier.
✅ Nutritious and balanced: Protein, veggies, and carbs in one comforting bowl.
✅ Great for meal prep: Stays delicious for days and freezes beautifully.
✅ Family-approved: Even picky eaters love it!

Cultural or Technique Note

Chicken noodle soup has roots in so many cultures — from Jewish matzo ball soup to Asian-style chicken ramen. This version takes inspiration from the comforting American homestyle soup, simplified into a one pot method that busy home cooks love. It’s a blend of tradition and practicality, the way families have always used food to nurture and heal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
Ladle into mugs for a cozy, on-the-couch dinner.
Add extra veggies and skip noodles for a light detox version.
Pair with biscuits or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Pro Tips for Success

Don’t rush the simmer — slow cooking builds depth of flavor.
Sear your chicken first to enhance the broth’s richness.
Add noodles near the end so they stay firm and don’t overcook.
A squeeze of lemon before serving brightens everything up.
Fresh herbs at the finish make the soup taste fresh, not flat.
If freezing, cook noodles separately to prevent sogginess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

⚠️ Overcooking the noodles: Add them last and cook just until tender.
⚠️ Skipping the sear: Raw chicken straight into broth means less flavor.
⚠️ Not tasting as you go: Season gradually to balance salt and herbs.
⚠️ Boiling too hard: A rolling boil can make chicken tough — gentle simmering keeps it tender.
⚠️ Forgetting freshness: Don’t skip that final sprinkle of parsley or a touch of lemon juice.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without noodles) for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm it gently over medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened. Low and slow keeps the chicken juicy and the noodles tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs stay juicy and add a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time by a few minutes.
Can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free noodles or rice and avoid any dairy-based sides. The soup itself is naturally dairy-free.
What sides go best with it?
Try it with flaky biscuits, a crusty baguette, or even a small green salad. It pairs beautifully with anything from light sides to indulgent breads.
Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely. It reheats beautifully and freezes well — just remember to keep noodles separate if freezing.
How can I make it spicier or milder?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for warmth, or keep it mild for a family-friendly version.

Closing Paragraph

Cooking this one pot chicken noodle soup isn’t just about making dinner — it’s about creating a small moment of comfort in a busy day. Each ladleful brings a taste of calm, a reminder that homemade meals don’t need to be complicated to be special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a friend in need, I hope this recipe adds a little warmth to your week.

Final Thoughts

Whenever I make this dish, I’m reminded that simple food really is the most special. It’s not about perfection — it’s about care, connection, and those quiet, happy moments around the table. If you try this recipe, I hope it fills your kitchen with the same warmth it brings mine. Follow me on Pinterest for more cozy, quick, and nostalgic recipes.