The first spoonful of chicken noodle soup always takes me back to childhood—a warm kitchen, the aroma of simmering broth, and the comforting clatter of bowls being set on the table. This timeless dish has a way of soothing both body and soul, whether you’re fighting off a cold or simply craving something cozy on a chilly day.

Layered with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant vegetables,  It’s a dish that’s as nourishing as it is nostalgic, with plenty of room for your own twists and variations. 

Key Takeaways

• Comforting and Familiar: A classic that never goes out of style, perfect for all ages.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Use gluten-free noodles, add extra veggies, or spice it up with a touch of chili.
• Healing and Nourishing: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is a go-to for cold days or when you’re under the weather. 

Chicken noodle soup is a hug in a bowl.

For the Ultimate Homemade Experience

If you’re looking for the most nourishing and flavorful version, check out our chicken broth recipe. In this method, you’ll roast chicken parts, simmer them with fresh vegetables, and create a deeply rich broth that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Once the broth is ready, simply:

1. Reheat the Broth: Warm it with the cooked chicken and vegetables from the recipe.
2. Cook the Noodles: Boil the noodles separately and drain them.
3. Combine and Serve: Mix everything together, and you’ve got a hearty, homemade chicken noodle soup.

One Pot Soups Recipes Dinner

Easy Homemade Chicken Broth: From Kitchen to Bowl

Learn to make Easy Homemade Chicken Broth with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Create rich, flavorful stock perfect for soups, sauces, and countless recipes
Read More

The ultimate version takes time but rewards you with unparalleled depth and goodness.

For the Faster Version

If you’re short on time or prefer a lighter take, just continue below with this simplified recipe. Using store-bought chicken stock and pre-cooked chicken still yields a delicious and comforting soup that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Essential Ingredients for a Bowl of Comfort and Warmth

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or your favorite store-bought broth)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven (for cooking the soup)
• Wooden spoon (for stirring)
• Ladle (for serving)

Step-by-Step Guide to Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

The secret to a good broth lies in the details—the small steps that make the biggest difference. From selecting the freshest vegetables to prepping your chicken, each step is a moment to savor. Let’s turn these simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Herbs

Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the thyme and parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of soy sauce to balance the flavors.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Noodles

Stir in the shredded chicken and noodles. Continue to simmer for another 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tip: Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.

Soup puts the heart at ease, calms down the violence of hunger, and removes the tension of the day.
— Auguste Escoffier

More Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, our chicken broth adds unparalleled depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add them just before serving to keep them al dente.
• Add a Splash of Lemon Juice: Brightens the soup and balances the richness of the broth.
• Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken: Pre-cooked chicken is a great shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
• Make It Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld.

Serving Your Chicken Broth: A Comforting Bowl

Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, but pairing it thoughtfully can transform it into a complete meal or a cozy gathering centerpiece. Here are some serving ideas to make your soup shine:

The Classic Pairing

Serve your soup with slices of warm, crusty bread. A freshly baked baguette or sourdough works wonders for soaking up the rich broth. Add a slather of herb butter or garlic spread for an extra layer of flavor.

A Fresh Green Salad

Pair your soup with a crisp salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette. The bright, tangy flavors provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

Make It a Spread

Turn chicken noodle soup into the star of a dinner spread. Include small sides like roasted vegetables, a charcuterie board with cheese and crackers, or bowls of marinated olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Tip: Offer a selection of toppings, such as shredded cheese, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, so everyone can customize their bowl.

Drinks That Complement

Pair your soup with a hot cup of tea, a crisp glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or even a classic lemonade for a lighter option. If you’re feeling indulgent, a warm spiced cider makes the perfect cold-weather companion.

Great food deserves thoughtful pairings—it’s all about the little details.

Make It Your Own: Creative Variations for Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a versatile classic, ready to be customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to inspire creativity:

Gluten-Free Version

Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, rice noodles, or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter, gluten-free alternative.

Tip: If using rice or zucchini noodles, add them at the last minute to avoid overcooking.

Spicy Kick

For those who love heat, stir in a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha while the broth simmers. Garnish with jalapeño slices for extra spice.

Vegetarian Twist

Replace the chicken broth with vegetable stock and swap the shredded chicken for chickpeas or firm tofu. Add extra vegetables like diced potatoes or mushrooms for heartiness.

Herbaceous Elevation

Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or tarragon instead of traditional parsley and thyme. Each herb lends its own unique flair to the soup.

Add Seasonal Vegetables

Incorporate seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, kale, or sweet corn to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Tip: Roast the vegetables beforehand for an extra depth of flavor.

Creamy Comfort

Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving for a silky, creamy texture. This works particularly well for a richer winter soup.

Chicken noodle soup is a canvas for your culinary imagination.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, omit the noodles (they can become mushy upon reheating) and store the broth, chicken, and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the noodles have been stored with the soup, keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until hot.
• From Frozen: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave as described above. Add freshly cooked noodles for best results.

Tip: For the best texture, always cook fresh noodles and add them during reheating, rather than storing the soup with noodles already included.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken broth isn’t just an ingredient—it’s an expression of care and creativity. With the right techniques, you’ll create a broth that’s clear, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re simmering a cozy soup, enriching a sauce, or poaching grains, your broth will add a layer of love to every dish.

Homemade chicken broth is incredibly versatile. It can make soups better and add depth to sauces. Learning the right techniques, like slow simmering and choosing the right ingredients, connects you to a long line of home cooks.

Easy Chicken Noodle Soup

A comforting, hearty soup made with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and wholesome vegetables, perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm hug in a bowl.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Universal

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving
• Strainer for noodles

Ingredients

  

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 medium carrots sliced
• 2 celery stalks sliced
• 1 tsp dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 6 cups chicken stock store-bought or homemade; our chicken broth recipe here
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie chicken works great!
• 2 cups egg noodles or your preferred pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Sauté the Vegetables:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.

Add the Broth and Herbs:

• Pour in the chicken stock and stir in the thyme and parsley. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Add the Chicken and Noodles:

• Stir in the shredded chicken and noodles. Let the soup simmer for another 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.

Season and Serve:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, omit the noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
Enhance the flavor by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Keyword Chicken noodle soup, comforting soup recipe, hearty chicken soup, homemade chicken soup, winter soup