Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Herbs: A Comforting Classic

Warm up with a bowl of easy Chicken noodle soup with herbs recipe, a timeless dish that brings comfort and nourishment to all who enjoy it. This homemade Chicken noodle soup with herbs from scratch is perfect for chilly weather or when you need a hearty, fulfilling meal. The harmony of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fresh herbs makes this soup not only delicious but also therapeutic. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or simply craving a home-cooked bowl of goodness, this recipe showcases the rich tradition of chicken soup and offers a unique twist with aromatic herbs.

This recipe is not only for meat lovers—those seeking a vegan Chicken noodle soup with herbs can opt for plant-based ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will fill your kitchen with savory aromas and your heart with satisfaction. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions, ingredient swaps, and personal touches to make this soup your own.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delightful Chicken noodle soup:

For the Soup Base:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Noodles:

2 cups egg noodles or any preferred noodles (gluten-free options are available)

For Fresh Garnish:

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Possible Ingredient Swaps:

For a dairy-free option, use almond milk instead of whole milk.
Opt for vegetable broth and replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegan version.
You can substitute egg noodles with zucchini noodles or quinoa for a low-carb variation.

Equipment List

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen tools:

Large stockpot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Colander (for draining noodles)
Soup ladle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing, peeling, and chopping all your vegetables to ensure a smooth cooking process. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and chop the celery, letting the aroma of fresh vegetables invigorate your kitchen.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly, infusing the oil with their natural flavors.
Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour the chicken broth into the stockpot, scraping any bits off the bottom for extra flavor. Turn the heat up to medium-high until the broth comes to a gentle boil.
Introduce the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs directly into the broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Shred the Chicken: After 20 minutes, remove the chicken from the soup and allow it to cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands. Return the shredded chicken to the soup, stirring to incorporate.
Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked noodles to the soup. Let everything simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together, adjusting the seasoning as necessary. Taste for more salt or pepper if desired.
Add Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, stir in the fresh parsley and dill for a burst of bright flavor that elevates your soup. This step not only enhances the taste but also adds gorgeous color.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm, comforting soup into bowls, savoring the aroma as you prepare to dive in. Enjoy the soup hot, optionally garnishing with extra herbs for presentation.

Special Notes

Storing: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Remember that noodles tend to absorb broth, so it’s best to store them separately if possible.

Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave portions or warm them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

Troubleshooting: If the soup is too thick for your liking, add 1-2 tablespoons of broth or water until the desired consistency is achieved. For enhanced flavor, freshly squeeze a bit of lemon juice just before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Customize your Chicken noodle soup with the following variations:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils, and use vegetable broth as the base. Keep the herbs for added flavor!
Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers to increase nutritional value and texture.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a spicy touch, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here is an estimated breakdown per serving of this delicious Chicken noodle soup:

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g

Engaging Visual Details

Imagine a bubbling pot on the stovetop, releasing delightful steam that swirls around your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby to gather. As you ladle the rich, golden broth into a bowl, the tender chicken and vibrant vegetables dance in the warm liquid, creating a visual feast. The fresh herbs sprinkled on top add an aromatic garnish that beckons you to taste. Consider capturing this beauty in photos as each step unfolds, especially the moment when you add the fresh herbs and the colors burst forth!

Conclusion

Now that you have the complete guide for making a heartwarming homemade Chicken noodle soup with herbs, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe promises to deliver a bowl of comfort, with each bite offering the essence of home. Whether for family gatherings, a cozy night in, or simply to savor those cherished flavors, this soup is sure to delight. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!