Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless dish that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles in a rich broth that comforts during cold weather or when you’re feeling under the weather. The beauty of this old-fashioned dish lies in its simplicity and nourishing ingredients. In just under an hour, you can create a meal that not only tastes delicious but also brings back fond memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Whether you’re looking to feed a family or simply craving a bowl of comfort, this Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup will deliver satisfaction with every spoonful. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful soup any day of the week.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
• Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
• How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
• Use Fresh Ingredients
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles
• Skimping on Seasoning
• Using Low-Quality Broth
• FAQs
• What are the best types of noodles for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
• Can I make Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup ahead of time?
• How do I store leftover Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
• What variations can I make for my Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
• Conclusion for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Carrots: Use about two medium carrots sliced into rounds; they add sweetness and nutrition to the soup
• Celery Stalks: Two celery stalks chopped; they provide crunch and depth of flavor
• Onion: One medium onion diced to enhance the aroma and overall taste of the soup
• Garlic Cloves: Three minced garlic cloves offer a robust flavor that complements the dish perfectly
• Egg Noodles: About two cups of egg noodles cook quickly and absorb the broth beautifully
• Chicken Broth: Use around eight cups; homemade is great but store-bought works well too
• Dried Thyme: One teaspoon adds aromatic flavor; fresh thyme can also be used if available

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing your onions, chopping carrots and celery, and mincing garlic cloves. This ensures everything cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add some oil. Once hot, place your boneless chicken breasts into the pot. Sear them until golden brown on both sides for about five minutes per side.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Remove the chicken temporarily from the pot. In the same pot with drippings from the chicken, add diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables for about five minutes until they soften.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

After sautéing your vegetables, return the seared chicken to the pot. Pour in eight cups of chicken broth along with dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about twenty minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Add Egg Noodles

Remove cooked chicken from the pot again. Shred it using two forks before returning it back to the pot along with egg noodles. Cook for an additional ten minutes until noodles are tender.

Transfer to bowls while hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of old-fashioned chicken noodle soup!

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Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Flavor Boost: For extra depth of flavor, consider adding bay leaves while simmering; just remember to remove them before serving
• Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove

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How to Serve Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

This Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken, vegetables, and broth in advance. Cook the chicken and chop the vegetables a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before combining them with noodles when ready to serve.
• Storing: Leftover Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in freezer-safe containers; it can last for about three months in the freezer.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Heat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

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Suggestions for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and quality chicken enhance the flavor significantly. Avoid using pre-packaged or frozen vegetables, as they often lack the vibrant taste and texture of their fresh counterparts. Opt for organic chicken if possible, as it tends to have a richer flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can elevate your soup to another level, providing a delightful aroma and taste. Remember that quality matters; investing in fresh ingredients will yield a more satisfying and wholesome soup.

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

Overcooking the noodles is a common mistake in making Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup. If you add them too early in the cooking process, they can become mushy and lose their texture. To avoid this problem, cook your noodles separately according to package instructions and add them just before serving. This ensures that they remain al dente and provide a nice bite to your soup. Additionally, if you plan to store leftovers, consider keeping the noodles separate from the broth to prevent them from absorbing too much liquid.

Skimping on Seasoning

Seasoning is key when preparing any dish, especially Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup. Many people underestimate the power of seasoning, leading to bland results. Start with a good amount of salt and pepper during cooking, but remember to adjust later as flavors develop. Adding herbs like bay leaves or thyme can deepen the flavor profile. Taste your soup at different stages and tweak the seasoning accordingly. A well-seasoned soup enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors and makes for a comforting meal everyone will love.

Using Low-Quality Broth

The broth is the heart of Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup, so using low-quality broth can significantly impact your dish’s overall taste. Homemade broth is always preferable; however, if you’re short on time, choose a high-quality store-bought option with minimal additives. Avoid broths loaded with sodium or preservatives that can mask natural flavors. If you’re using homemade stock, ensure it’s rich and flavorful by simmering chicken bones with plenty of vegetables and herbs for several hours.

FAQs

What are the best types of noodles for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?

When it comes to Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup, egg noodles are traditionally used due to their soft texture and ability to absorb flavors well. Other options include wide or thin pasta shapes like fettuccine or even whole wheat noodles for added nutrition. When selecting noodles, consider cooking them separately before adding them to the soup to maintain their structure. This prevents them from becoming soggy while ensuring your soup remains hearty.

Can I make Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup ahead of time?

Yes! Making Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup ahead of time is not only possible but also convenient for meal prep. Prepare the soup without adding noodles until you’re ready to serve it; this keeps them from becoming mushy during storage. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to three days or freeze portions in airtight containers for later use. When reheating, simply add cooked noodles or prepare fresh ones according to package instructions.

How do I store leftover Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?

To store leftover Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup properly, allow it to cool down completely before transferring it into airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage—up to three months works well when frozen properly. When reheating frozen soup, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming it on the stove or in the microwave.

What variations can I make for my Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?

There are plenty of ways to customize your Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup! Consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition and color. For a creamier version, incorporate some heavy cream towards the end of cooking time; this adds richness without overpowering traditional flavors. You might also experiment with various herbs like dill or oregano based on your taste preferences while maintaining that warm comfort classic feel.

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Conclusion for Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort on cold days or whenever you’re feeling under the weather. By avoiding common mistakes such as using low-quality ingredients or overcooking your noodles, you can create a deliciously flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Remember to season generously and consider making your broth from scratch whenever possible for optimal taste. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to whip up an amazing bowl of chicken noodle soup that warms both body and soul! Enjoy experimenting with variations while keeping this comforting classic at its heart!