Print

Cozy Classic Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

classic chicken noodle soup - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and straightforward homemade chicken noodle soup recipe made from scratch with simple ingredients and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy nights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs / 1.4–1.8 kg), preferably organic or free-range
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 10 cups (2.4 liters) cold water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 6 oz (170 g) egg noodles or any short pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter for sautéing veggies

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth (20-25 minutes): Place the whole chicken or chicken thighs in a large stockpot. Add 10 cups (2.4 liters) cold water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
  2. Add Vegetables and Herbs (20 minutes): After skimming, add sliced carrots, celery, diced onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove Chicken and Debone (10 minutes): Carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat off the bones. Discard skin and bones. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
  4. Cook the Noodles Separately (7-10 minutes): Cook noodles in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse lightly under cold water to stop cooking.
  5. Final Assembly and Seasoning (5 minutes): Add cooked noodles to the soup pot. Taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Notes

Simmer chicken gently to avoid tough meat and cloudy broth. Skim impurities early for clear broth. Cook noodles separately to prevent mushiness. Shred chicken by hand for tender texture. Season gradually and taste often. Optionally add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for subtle flavor enhancements.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken noodle soup, homemade soup, classic chicken soup, comfort food, easy chicken soup, cozy soup, from scratch soup

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/cozy-classic-chicken-noodle-soup-from-scratch-easy-homemade-recipe/