Hearty Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe (Perfect For Any Occasion)

by Julia
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July 28, 2023

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Take a journey back to Grandma’s kitchen with this Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup, a timeless classic that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Begin by browning chunks of tender chicken, their savory juices melding with sautéed onions, carrots, and celery. Immerse the golden medley in a bath of rich chicken broth, allowing the flavors to marry. Introduce egg noodles, cooking them to al dente perfection. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper. Serve piping hot, each spoonful a comforting embrace that soothes the soul and satisfies the palate.

Savor the warmth of a beloved classic as the aroma of Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe awakens your senses.

This timeless delight, a symphony of tender chicken morsels, firm noodles, and vibrant vegetables, dances on the palate, reviving childhood memories.

Whether huddled on a rainy day or seeking comfort after a long day, this enchanting brew is your sanctuary of coziness.

Indulge in every spoonful as the flavors unfold – the savory chicken, the earthy carrots, and the whispers of aromatic herbs.

Let this soup be your home’s signature charm, a remedy to soothe your soul, an invitation to immerse in authentic simplicity. Your journey of tasting this quintessential dish mirrors an exploration of love and tradition imbued with a touch of modernity.

It’s more than a meal; it’s a connection – a testament to the power of simple ingredients shaping extraordinary experiences. So, delve into the world of homestyle chicken noodle and relish the taste of home in every slurp.

What Is Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup?

Homestyle chicken noodle soup is a comforting, hearty dish steeped in culinary tradition.

It features succulent chicken pieces, chewy egg noodles, and a colorful medley of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions; all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth.

Often seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, this soup encapsulates the essence of home cooking, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every spoonful.

It’s a wholesome and nourishing meal, often served as a remedy for cold weather or when one needs a taste of home.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The classic homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe can be adapted to fit various dietary needs:

Keto Replace traditional noodles with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or shirataki noodles to reduce the carbohydrate content. Make sure to use a sugar-free broth.
Paleo Similar to Keto, substitute regular noodles with zoodles or spaghetti squash. Ensure your broth is grain and legume-free.
Gluten-Free Use gluten-free noodles made from ingredients like rice or quinoa. Verify that your broth is also gluten-free.
Whole30 Replace the noodles with compliant veggies like zoodles, spaghetti squash, or sweet potato spirals. Make sure your chicken broth is Whole30-compliant (sugar-free and no artificial additives).
Vegetarian/Vegan Swap chicken with hearty vegetables like butternut squash, mushrooms or tofu for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor.

Recipe Directions

Combine broth, water, black pepper, carrot, celery, and chicken in a saucepan.
Heat the mixture until it boils.
Add noodles into the boiling broth.
Lower the heat to medium and let it cook for 10 minutes or until noodles are cooked.

Variations, Add-OnsAnd Toppings

Variations, add-ons, and toppings can take a classic homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe and customize it to personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

Variations

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a touch of cream or half and half in the last few minutes of cooking for a richer texture and flavor.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a diced jalapeño, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb-Loaded Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a mix of fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, or tarragon for an herbal twist.

Add-Ons

Vegetables: Add vegetables like peas, corn, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and color. They should be added towards the end of the cooking process to keep them vibrant and crisp.
Proteins: For a different flavor, consider adding or replacing the chicken with turkey, tofu, or white beans.
Grains: Try adding rice, barley, or quinoa for a change from noodles.

Toppings

Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, chives, or cilantro can provide a fresh burst of flavor.
Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese adds a savory note.
Crunch: Croutons, crispy noodles, or even toasted nuts can give an appealing contrast in texture.
Zest: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors of the soup.
Spice: Drizzle of hot sauce, freshly ground black pepper, or a sprinkle of red chili flakes can provide a warm spice to the soup.

Can I Make Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot can create a wonderful homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe with deep flavors. Here’s how to adapt the recipe:

Slow Cooker Method

Place the chicken, chopped vegetables, black pepper, and broth into your slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and vegetables are tender.
Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker.
Turn the heat setting to high if it’s not already. Add the noodles to the slow cooker, and cook for another 15-30 minutes or until they’re done to your liking.

Instant Pot Method

Place the chicken, chopped vegetables, black pepper, and broth in the Instant Pot.
Close the lid and set the vent to “sealing.” Select the manual setting and set it for 7 minutes on high pressure.
Once done, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Open the lid, remove the chicken to shred, then return it to the pot.
Select the “saute” setting and add the noodles. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re done to your liking.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can absolutely use store-bought broth for your homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe. Many people choose this option for convenience and ease. When shopping, look for a high-quality, low-sodium option that will give you more control over the salt content of your soup.

However, if you have the time and inclination, making your own broth can take your soup to the next level. Homemade broth often has a deeper, more complex flavor; thanks to the ability to customize and simmer the ingredients for an extended period.

It’s a great way to use leftover chicken bones and vegetable scraps, making it a cost-effective and waste-reducing option.

How To Serve ?

homestyle chicken noodle soup recipe is a versatile dish that can be served in several delightful ways:

With Bread: Serving the soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or rolls makes for a hearty, satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful soup.In a
Bread Bowl: For a fun and edible presentation, you can serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. This is especially popular with sourdough or other sturdy types of bread.
With a Salad: Pairing the soup with a fresh, crisp salad can create a balanced, nutritious meal. The cool salad contrasts nicely with the warm, comforting soup.
With Sandwich: Chicken noodle soup served alongside a sandwich (like a classic grilled cheese) is a traditional combo that never fails to satisfy.
As a Starter: You can serve the soup as a warm, comforting starter before a main course. It’s a great way to whet the appetite without being too filling.
Garnished: Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. This adds color, fresh flavor, and a visually appealing finish.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread or Rolls: These can be used to sop up every last bit of the flavorful broth and add a pleasing textural contrast to the soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A warm, gooey grilled cheese sandwich is a classic pairing with chicken noodle soup, offering a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, savory soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can add a hearty, flavorful side that complements the soup, especially in the cooler months.
Coleslaw: A crisp, tangy coleslaw can offer a crunchy contrast and a bit of brightness to balance the rich, comforting soup.
Quiche or Frittata: A slice of quiche or frittata can round out the meal, adding a satisfying source of protein and veggies.
Pickles or Olives: These offer a tangy, briny contrast to the savory soup, refreshing your palate in between spoonfuls.

Storage And Make Ahead

Storage: Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup without noodles and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook noodles separately and add them to individual servings to prevent them from getting mushy. This allows for fresh-tasting noodles in each bowl.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Noodle Skillet: Sauté your soup in a skillet until the broth reduces. Add an egg or two for a tasty, quick noodle stir-fry.
Soup Omelette: Incorporate the soup into a fluffy omelette for a unique, flavor-packed breakfast.
Rice Pilaf: Use the flavorful soup as a cooking liquid for rice to create a delicious pilaf.
Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup until thickened and toss it with pasta for a unique pasta dish.
Baked Casserole: Mix with cheese and breadcrumbs, bake until golden for a comforting casserole.
Quesadillas or Tacos: Shred the chicken and veggies, use it as a filling for quesadillas or tacos.
Pot Pie: Use the leftovers as a filling for a quick and easy pot pie.

TIPS

Fresh Crab Meat: Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Avoid canned crab meat, as it can be too soft and lacking in flavor.
Creamy Base: Use a combination of heavy cream and milk for a rich and creamy base. Be careful not to boil the soup once the cream has been added to prevent curdling.
Seasoning: Season the soup generously with Old Bay seasoning or your favorite seafood seasoning blend to enhance the flavor of the crab.
Vegetables: Add finely diced onions, celery, and carrots to the soup base for added flavor and texture.
Garnish: Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a drizzle of sherry for a touch of elegance.