There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of warm chicken noodle soup. It’s one of those classic meals that seem to heal both the body and soul, whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a cozy, satisfying dish. But sometimes, the classic chicken noodle soup can be a little too salty for those of us watching our sodium intake. That’s where the magic of a low sodium chicken noodle soup comes in! This version still delivers that rich, savory flavor that’s so essential to the dish, but without overwhelming your taste buds with salt.
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into a low sodium chicken noodle soup recipe that’s not only easy to make but also full of nutrients, hearty vegetables, and plenty of protein. We’ll explore each ingredient, provide you with expert tips, offer variations for personalization, and share the steps in great detail to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time. So, let’s get started on this healthy and delicious journey!
Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This low sodium chicken noodle soup recipe is the perfect way to enjoy all the comfort and warmth of a classic without the extra salt. It’s hearty, nourishing, and full of fresh ingredients. And the best part? It’s easy to make and can be ready in about an hour.
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients Needed
To make this delicious and healthy low sodium chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
-
Boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1 pound)
- This lean protein will provide you with all the benefits of chicken without excess fat.
-
Low sodium chicken broth (4 cups)
- The key to keeping this soup low in sodium while still maintaining that rich, savory flavor.
-
Carrots (2 medium, diced)
- Adds natural sweetness and color to the soup, plus a healthy dose of vitamins.
-
Celery (2 stalks, chopped)
- Gives a slight crunch and fresh flavor.
-
Onion (1 medium, chopped)
- A base ingredient that deepens the overall flavor of the soup.
-
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Garlic adds an aromatic, earthy taste that’s essential to any good soup.
-
Egg noodles (1 cup)
- Choose whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier alternative.
-
Bay leaves (2)
- These lend a subtle herbal flavor to the broth.
-
Fresh thyme (2 teaspoons)
- Adds a fragrant, herbal quality that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
-
Black pepper (to taste)
- To bring a little heat and depth to the soup.
-
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
- Just a squeeze at the end helps balance the flavors and brighten the dish.
-
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal touch.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to prepare your low sodium chicken noodle soup:
-
Prep The Chicken
- Start by cutting your chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and quickly in the broth.
-
Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add your chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
-
Add The Broth And Seasonings
- Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, and add the bay leaves, fresh thyme, and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Cook The Chicken
- Add the diced chicken to the pot, stir it in, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
-
Add The Noodles
- Stir in the egg noodles and continue simmering the soup for another 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.
-
Final Touches
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
- Stir in the lemon juice and taste for seasoning. You can adjust with a little more black pepper if you want.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
-
Serve Hot And Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role of each ingredient in this soup can help elevate the dish, and even give you some ideas for substitutions or additions in the future. Here’s a closer look at why each ingredient matters:
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth: It’s easy to think that all broths are the same, but regular broths can be loaded with salt. Opting for low sodium chicken broth ensures you’re in control of how much salt is added to the soup while still getting that rich chicken flavor.
- Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is a lean, high-protein choice. It also cooks quickly and remains tender in the soup, which makes it an excellent option for a quick, healthy meal.
- Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion): These veggies not only add vibrant color and texture to the soup but are packed with vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A (carrots) and fiber (celery). They create a delicious base for the soup, too.
- Egg Noodles: These traditional noodles soak up the soup’s flavors perfectly and provide just the right amount of starch to make the soup hearty. You can switch them out for a healthier option, like whole wheat or gluten-free noodles, if you prefer.
- Herbs & Spices: Bay leaves and thyme contribute deep, aromatic flavors to the broth without adding any sodium. Fresh herbs like parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brighten up the whole dish, giving it a fresh, balanced taste.
Expert Tips
To make sure your low sodium chicken noodle soup turns out just right, here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooking chicken breast can lead to dry, tough meat. To avoid this, make sure you’re only simmering the chicken for 10 minutes after it’s added to the broth.
- Use fresh herbs when possible: Fresh thyme and parsley elevate the flavor of the soup, and fresh herbs are a fantastic way to get more flavor without relying on salt.
- Watch the noodles: Noodles can absorb liquid as they cook, so be mindful of the soup’s consistency. If you’re not serving the soup immediately, you may want to slightly undercook the noodles, as they will continue to soften and absorb the broth as they sit.
- Adjust the seasoning: Since we’re keeping the sodium low, feel free to get creative with your spices. A little extra black pepper, a pinch of cayenne, or even a dash of turmeric could add a unique twist.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to make this soup your own by experimenting with these variations:
- Add extra greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard would be delicious additions. Just throw them in towards the end of cooking for a healthy, leafy boost.
- Use different proteins: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
- Gluten-free option: Swap out the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta or even quinoa for a different twist on the classic.
- Spicy chicken noodle soup: If you enjoy a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for some extra kick.
- Low-carb version: Instead of noodles, you can substitute zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter, low-carb option.
Final Words
This low sodium chicken noodle soup is a perfect way to enjoy a comforting, hearty meal without worrying about excess salt. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying as the traditional version. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy meal just for yourself, this soup is guaranteed to become a go-to recipe.
FAQs
What Is Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup?
Low sodium chicken noodle soup is a healthier version of the traditional chicken noodle soup, made with minimal or no added salt. The focus is on using fresh ingredients like chicken, vegetables, herbs, and a low-sodium broth to provide flavor without compromising on taste or health.
Why Should I Make Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup?
Making low sodium chicken noodle soup is beneficial for reducing your daily sodium intake, which can help manage blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and support overall kidney health. It’s a good choice for individuals with hypertension or those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Common ingredients for a low sodium chicken noodle soup include skinless chicken breast or thighs, low-sodium chicken broth, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, herbs like thyme or rosemary, and whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. You can also add pepper, bay leaves, or other seasonings for flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Chicken Broth For Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, but be sure to choose a low-sodium or no-sodium-added chicken broth. Many commercial broths contain high levels of salt, so always check the label to ensure the sodium content is low. Alternatively, you can make your own broth to have complete control over the salt content.
How Can I Add Flavor To My Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup Without Salt?
You can enhance the flavor of your soup with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or bay leaves, as well as garlic, onion, and pepper. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar at the end of cooking can also help brighten the flavors and make the soup taste more savory.
What Type Of Noodles Should I Use For Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup?
For a healthier option, choose whole wheat noodles, gluten-free noodles, or low-sodium egg noodles. These alternatives tend to have lower sodium content and offer additional nutritional benefits, such as higher fiber or fewer additives.
Can I Make The Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, low sodium chicken noodle soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy during storage.
Is It Possible To Freeze Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can freeze low sodium chicken noodle soup for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s a good idea to store the soup and noodles separately to avoid texture changes. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
What Can I Substitute For Chicken In A Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
For a vegetarian or alternative option, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or beans. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and load the soup with extra vegetables like zucchini, kale, or spinach for added nutrition.
How Can I Make Low Sodium Chicken Noodle Soup Spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can add ingredients like red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or a dash of hot sauce. You could also experiment with spices like paprika or cumin to give the soup a warm, spicy flavor without adding extra sodium.