This Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a nourishing meal in a hurry. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth, this soup is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, and it’s packed with nutrients to keep you feeling your best.
Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
This soup combines the classic flavors of chicken, carrots, celery, and noodles with a flavorful chicken broth, creating a warm, satisfying meal. I love how simple this recipe is to make—you only need a handful of ingredients, and it comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Why You’ll Love This Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
This Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for when you’re craving a comforting, homemade soup but don’t have much time. It’s warm, soothing, and filled with tender noodles and hearty vegetables. I love how versatile it is—you can add extra vegetables, swap the noodles for rice, or even use rotisserie chicken to make it even faster.
This soup is also an excellent option for meal prep or to make ahead and freeze. It keeps well in the refrigerator and is great to have on hand for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Main Ingredients in Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Chicken Breast or Rotisserie Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken adds lean protein and a comforting flavor to the soup.
- Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles are perfect for this soup, but you can also use other small pasta shapes.
- Carrots: Diced carrots add a natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- Celery: Adds a mild crunch and flavor that balances the carrots.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics provide depth and a savory base for the broth.
- Chicken Broth: A good-quality chicken broth is essential for a flavorful soup.
- Herbs (Thyme, Bay Leaf, Parsley): Fresh or dried herbs add an earthy, aromatic flavor that enhances the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
Here’s how to make this quick and flavorful chicken noodle soup:
- Cook the Chicken: If using raw chicken, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s browned on the outside and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool, then shred or dice.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
- Add the Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the Noodles and Chicken: Add the egg noodles and the shredded or diced chicken to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, then taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of flavor. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For an even quicker meal, use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
- Customize the Vegetables: Add extra vegetables like green beans, corn, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Cook the Noodles Separately (Optional): To prevent the noodles from absorbing too much broth, cook them separately and add them to each bowl before serving.
How to Store and Serve
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to make the soup ahead, cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating to avoid them from becoming too soft.
Serve this Chicken Noodle Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or even as a comforting option when you’re feeling under the weather.
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