There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s like a hug in a bowl-a remedy for the soul, whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something nostalgic and satisfying. Chicken noodle soup has been a go-to dish for generations, with its rich history in various cultures and its versatile, simple nature. But if you’re looking for the quintessential version, the old-fashioned chicken noodle soup, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is a timeless classic that hits all the right notes: hearty, savory, and soul-soothing.
Let’s dive deep into making this comforting dish from scratch, where the flavors meld together beautifully in a medley of tender chicken, savory broth, and perfectly cooked noodles. This recipe is not just about filling your belly-it’s about creating a bowl of warmth and joy.
Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This old-fashioned chicken noodle soup recipe is as traditional as they come. We’re talking about a wholesome dish made with fresh ingredients, a homemade chicken broth, and the kind of love that transforms an everyday meal into something special. The goal here is simplicity, quality, and of course, flavor.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Ingredients Needed
To make the perfect chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients. Don’t worry; these are all staples that are easy to find and don’t require any fancy, hard-to-get items. Most of these ingredients can be found in your local grocery store, making this recipe as convenient as it is tasty.
- Whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) – A whole chicken is key here. Not only does it add rich flavor to the broth, but the meat itself stays tender and juicy, falling off the bone effortlessly.
- Carrots – Fresh, sweet carrots add natural sweetness to the broth and a vibrant pop of color.
- Celery – Celery adds a crisp, refreshing element to the soup. Plus, it’s a classic ingredient that gives the soup that signature flavor.
- Onion – A large onion adds depth and savoriness to the broth.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the richness of the soup and adds a comforting aroma.
- Chicken broth (or water for a more intense homemade broth) – You can use store-bought broth or homemade chicken broth for more flavor depth. Homemade broth always wins, though!
- Egg noodles – These are the perfect noodle choice for chicken noodle soup, with their tender texture and ability to absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Bay leaves – A couple of bay leaves infuse the soup with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- Fresh thyme – Thyme is the quintessential herb for chicken soup, bringing a fragrant earthy taste that complements the savory notes of the chicken and vegetables.
- Salt & pepper – Simple but crucial seasonings that bring out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh note to the dish.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how you can make this comforting, old-fashioned chicken noodle soup step by step:
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Prepare The Chicken
- Place the whole chicken in a large pot and fill it with enough cold water to cover the bird (around 10 cups).
- Add a pinch of salt, a couple of garlic cloves, and some onion pieces (peeling them first helps keep the broth cleaner).
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 40 minutes to an hour, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
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Add Vegetables And Herbs
- Once the chicken is cooked through, add the carrots, celery, and onion (diced if you prefer them smaller), along with the thyme and bay leaves.
- Simmer for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Shred The Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bones, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
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Cook The Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. The noodles should be soft but still hold their shape.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you like a bit of acidity, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
- Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this chicken noodle soup brings its own magic to the dish. Let’s break down the role of each one:
- Whole Chicken: It’s the base of this soup. Cooking the chicken whole helps release the natural flavors and creates a rich, aromatic broth. You get the added bonus of tender, juicy chicken pieces.
- Carrots & Celery: These classic vegetables are the backbone of many soups, adding natural sweetness and a slight crunch. Together, they make up the “mirepoix” (the French term for the combination of these three vegetables), giving the soup its foundational flavor.
- Garlic & Onion: These ingredients elevate the dish with their savory, aromatic profiles. Garlic infuses the soup with a bit of depth, while onion gives it a touch of sweetness and complexity.
- Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are the ideal choice because they have a soft, velvety texture that absorbs the broth, making every bite warm and comforting.
- Thyme & Bay Leaves: These herbs add subtle notes of earthiness, making the broth more complex and aromatic.
Expert Tips
If you want to take this recipe to the next level, here are a few expert tips to consider:
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you can, go for a bone-in chicken with skin. The bones release gelatin as they cook, creating a rich, silky broth that tastes much better than boneless, skinless chicken.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: When making broth, always simmer rather than boil. A rolling boil will cause the proteins and fat to emulsify into the liquid, resulting in a greasy, cloudy broth.
- Let it Sit: Let your soup sit for about 15 minutes after cooking. The flavors meld and the noodles have a chance to absorb the broth, making the soup even more flavorful.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves really bring a special touch to the soup. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will elevate your dish.
Recipe Variations
Chicken noodle soup is highly adaptable. While the classic version is always a winner, here are some variations to mix things up:
- Add Extra Veggies: For more nutrition and flavor, throw in some spinach, peas, or corn. These will add texture and a burst of color.
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a chopped jalapeño to give your soup some heat.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: For a richer soup, stir in a cup of heavy cream or milk toward the end of cooking. This makes the broth creamy and luscious.
- Herbed Chicken Soup: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile. These herbs pair well with chicken and give the soup an aromatic twist.
Final Words
Making chicken noodle soup from scratch isn’t just about following a recipe-it’s about crafting something warm, comforting, and nourishing. It’s a dish that can be shared with loved ones on a chilly day, or enjoyed solo while curled up with a good book or movie. With each spoonful, you’re not just tasting delicious ingredients-you’re tasting years of tradition, memories, and comfort.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For An Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
For a classic old fashioned chicken noodle soup, you’ll need chicken (typically a whole chicken or bone-in pieces), carrots, celery, onions, garlic, chicken broth, egg noodles, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and parsley.
Can I Use Store-bought Chicken Broth For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken broth if you’re short on time, but homemade chicken broth will provide a richer, more flavorful base for the soup.
How Long Does It Take To Make Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
Making old fashioned chicken noodle soup typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, including cooking the chicken, preparing the vegetables, and simmering the broth.
Should I Cook The Noodles Separately Or In The Soup?
It’s best to cook the noodles directly in the soup towards the end to allow them to absorb some of the broth’s flavors. If you prefer, you can cook them separately and add them to the soup when serving to avoid them becoming mushy.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken can be used to save time. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup after the broth has simmered. This method eliminates the need to cook the chicken from scratch.
What Herbs Are Best For Seasoning Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
Thyme, parsley, bay leaves, and dill are common herbs used in an old fashioned chicken noodle soup. You can also add a sprig of rosemary for a slightly stronger flavor.
Can I Freeze Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, chicken noodle soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles. Noodles can become mushy when thawed and reheated. You can cook fresh noodles when reheating the soup.
How Can I Make The Soup Thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can either add more vegetables (like mashed potatoes or parsnips), or use a cornstarch or flour slurry. Another option is to blend part of the soup and return it to the pot.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, old fashioned chicken noodle soup can be made a day or two ahead. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve with time. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What Kind Of Noodles Should I Use For Old Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup?
Traditionally, egg noodles are used in chicken noodle soup. However, you can also use other types of pasta like kluski noodles, rotini, or even homemade dumplings for a variation.