Introduction
Comfort food at its finest, this delightful chicken noodle soup packs a punch with flavors and nutrients that warm both the body and the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal, this dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and wholesome egg noodles, all swimming in a fragrant chicken broth. Easy to make and satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close at hand.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 yellow squash, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
8 cups chicken stock
2 bay leaves
2 cups egg noodles
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or roasted)
1 sprig rosemary
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Enjoy this hearty chicken noodle soup for dinner tonight and savor the rich flavors and nourishing ingredients that come together in this easy-to-follow recipe!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chicken to the stockpot and cook until golden, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the stockpot. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add More Vegetables and Herbs
Add the chopped zucchini, yellow squash, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and browned, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the dried thyme and oregano until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Incorporate Stock and Bay Leaves
Whisk in the chicken stock and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Add Noodles and Simmer
Stir in the egg noodles, cannellini beans, corn kernels, rosemary sprig, and the cooked chicken. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Parsley
Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley leaves. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately.
Notes
Storage
Leftover soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach or kale for added nutrition. You can also substitute the egg noodles with whole grain or gluten-free options.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Searing Chicken
Searing the chicken in olive oil helps to develop a rich flavor and creates a golden crust. This technique involves cooking the chicken in a hot pot for a short amount of time without stirring too much, allowing for caramelization.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking the diced onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil over medium heat until tender. This technique enhances the flavors and releases the moisture from the vegetables, making them more aromatic.
Building Flavor with Herbs
Adding dried herbs like thyme and oregano while sautéing brings out their essential oils, which contributes to the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
Deglazing
Once you add the chicken stock, the deglazing process occurs, where any brown bits from the bottom of the pot are lifted while also adding moisture and flavor to the soup.
Simmering
Allowing the soup to simmer after adding the egg noodles and other ingredients cooks them gently and evenly, resulting in a tender texture without overcooking.
Finishing with Fresh Ingredients
Adding lemon juice and fresh parsley at the end brightens the flavors and adds freshness to the finished dish, providing a contrast to the rich broth.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or other proteins of your choice, adjusting cooking times as needed.
What can I use if I don’t have chicken stock?
You can use vegetable stock or water with added bouillon cubes or powder for flavor if you don’t have chicken stock on hand.
How can I modify this recipe for a vegetarian option?
Simply replace the chicken with plant-based proteins, use vegetable stock, and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like paprika, cumin, or additional fresh herbs. A splash of hot sauce can also add a kick to the flavor profile.
Conclusion
This hearty chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish packed with flavors and nutrients. It’s easy to prepare and can serve as a wholesome meal for the whole family. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful experience in every spoonful. Plus, with the addition of cannellini beans and corn, it brings both protein and sweetness to the mix, making it a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
Chicken and Rice Soup
Swap the egg noodles for rice to create a different texture and flavor profile, while still maintaining the hearty essence of the dish.
Vegetable and Bean Soup
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more varieties of beans along with additional vegetables for a protein-packed, wholesome soup.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to add a spicy kick to the traditional chicken noodle soup.
Herbed Chicken Pasta Dish
Replace the chicken stock with cream to create a creamy pasta sauce and toss in the egg noodles for a rich, herbed chicken pasta dish.
Italian Chicken Soup
Add diced tomatoes and Italian sausage to transform the flavors into an Italian-style chicken soup while boosting the heartiness.
Mexican Chicken Tortilla Soup
Infuse the soup with cumin and lime juice, and top with tortilla strips for a vibrant Mexican twist.
