When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally beloved as a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s the go-to dish on cold days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or when you just want to feel cozy. One of the most iconic, easy-to-make versions of this classic is Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup. Known for its hearty flavors, satisfying texture, and quick preparation, this soup has become a favorite in many households.
While making chicken noodle soup from scratch can be a fun culinary adventure, sometimes the convenience of a pre-made base, like Knorr, can’t be beat. With just a few simple ingredients, a pot, and a little bit of time, you can recreate that homestyle soup without the hassle. But, like most prepared foods, it offers plenty of room for customization and personal touches. Let’s break down how you can make Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup your own!
Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This recipe will show you exactly how to create a simple yet delicious bowl of Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s easy to follow, using the Knorr soup mix as your base, but it also gives you a chance to add your flair to it by incorporating a few fresh ingredients.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 package of Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Mix (you can find it in most grocery stores)
- 4 cups of water (you can also use chicken broth for an extra boost of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for sautéing, optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness and depth to the flavor)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (to bring that aromatic punch)
- 1 carrot, peeled and sliced (adds a bit of sweetness and color)
- 1 celery stalk, chopped (for a refreshing, crisp texture)
- 1-2 cooked chicken breasts (shredded or diced – adding protein to make it heartier)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (to taste, if desired, depending on the saltiness of your broth or water)
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional, for a pop of green and fragrance)
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
- If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté The Vegetables (Optional)
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Toss in the carrots and celery, and sauté them for an additional 2-3 minutes to slightly soften and enhance their flavors. This step adds an extra layer of depth to the soup but is completely optional if you’re short on time.
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Cook The Soup Base
- Add the 4 cups of water (or broth, if you prefer a richer flavor) to the pot. Stir in the Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Mix, making sure it dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
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Add The Chicken And Noodles
- Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken into the soup base. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.
- Finally, add the dry noodles from the Knorr mix and cook according to the package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes). Keep an eye on the noodles to make sure they don’t overcook.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. If you like a more intense flavor, you can also add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for some kick.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for an added burst of flavor and color. Serve with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a salad for a more complete meal.
Ingredient Insights
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a deeper dive into some of the key ingredients in this dish:
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Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Mix
- This packet is the heart of the recipe, providing a well-balanced chicken flavor with a touch of seasoning. It’s made with real chicken and a blend of herbs and spices, which is why it’s such a beloved pantry staple.
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Olive Oil
- Olive oil is a healthy fat that enhances the soup’s overall mouthfeel and richness. It also helps to sauté the vegetables, releasing their essential flavors before they hit the broth.
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Chicken
- Adding shredded or diced chicken transforms this soup into a filling meal. It’s rich in protein, giving the dish more substance and depth. If you don’t have leftover chicken, poaching a fresh chicken breast in the soup is a great alternative!
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Fresh Veggies
- The classic trio of onion, carrot, and celery (known as mirepoix in culinary terms) bring sweetness, texture, and freshness to the soup. These veggies also boost the nutritional value of the dish, making it more well-rounded.
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Fresh Herbs
- Fresh parsley or thyme isn’t just for decoration – it adds an extra layer of fragrance and brightness that complements the savory soup. Fresh herbs can make all the difference in elevating an otherwise simple dish.
Expert Tips
- Use Broth Instead of Water: For a richer flavor, use chicken broth or stock instead of water. This small swap can make a world of difference in terms of depth and taste.
- Add More Protein: Want a heartier soup? Add more chicken or even throw in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor. You can also experiment with other proteins like turkey or even ground chicken for a different texture.
- Don’t Skip the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables first intensifies their flavors and brings out their sweetness. It’s a small step that pays off in flavor.
- Fresh Noodles?: If you want to go above and beyond, try adding fresh egg noodles instead of the dried ones from the Knorr mix. Fresh noodles add a silky texture to the soup that can take it to the next level.
- Leftovers: This soup is even better the next day! The flavors continue to meld and develop, so it’s perfect for meal prepping.
Recipe Variations
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- If you want a creamy version of Knorr’s chicken noodle soup, stir in half and half or heavy cream towards the end of cooking. This will give the soup a rich, velvety texture and a decadent flavor.
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Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
- For some heat, add a few dashes of sriracha, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes. The spicy kick pairs perfectly with the savory broth and chicken.
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Vegetarian Chicken Noodle Soup
- Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or peas to make a vegetarian-friendly version. You can also swap the chicken broth for a vegetable broth.
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Thai-Inspired Chicken Soup
- Give it an Asian twist by adding coconut milk, lime juice, and a handful of chopped cilantro. A bit of fish sauce and a pinch of ginger will complete this flavorful fusion.
Final Words
Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup is a fantastic pantry staple for busy weeknights, sick days, or when you’re simply craving something warm and comforting. Its simplicity doesn’t take away from its flavor. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. With a few tweaks here and there, you can create a soup that’s uniquely yours.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For The Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
The basic ingredients for Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup include Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup mix, water, and optional additions such as cooked chicken, vegetables (like carrots and celery), and seasonings like salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Can I Add Fresh Vegetables To The Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can add fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas to the soup. These additions can enhance the flavor and provide more texture to the soup. Simply chop the vegetables and add them to the soup during the cooking process.
How Long Does It Take To Make Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch?
The total time for making Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup is approximately 15 minutes. The soup mix dissolves quickly in boiling water, and if you’re adding fresh vegetables or cooked chicken, it may take an additional 5 to 10 minutes for them to heat through.
Can I Use A Different Flavor Of Knorr Soup Mix For A Variation?
Yes, you can experiment with other Knorr soup mixes, such as Knorr’s Chicken and Rice or Knorr’s Vegetable Soup mix. However, this will change the flavor and texture of the dish.
How Do I Make Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup More Flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor of Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup by adding ingredients like garlic, onion powder, fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), or a dash of lemon juice. You can also try using homemade broth instead of water for a richer taste.
Can I Make Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Without Chicken?
Yes, you can make the soup vegetarian by omitting the chicken. The Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup mix already contains chicken flavor, so it will still have a savory taste without adding actual chicken.
Can I Make Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make a slower version of the soup in a slow cooker. Combine the soup mix, water, vegetables, and any additional chicken, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Be sure to add the noodles closer to the end of the cooking time so they don’t overcook.
How Many Servings Does The Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Make?
Typically, one package of Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup mix makes about 4 servings. However, if you add extra ingredients like vegetables or chicken, you may be able to stretch it to more servings.
Can I Freeze Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup For Later?
It is possible to freeze Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup, but the noodles may become soggy when reheated. To minimize this, you can freeze the soup without the noodles and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating the soup.
What Can I Serve With Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup?
Knorr Chicken Noodle Soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as crusty bread, a light salad, crackers, or a grilled cheese sandwich. These sides can help balance the meal and add texture.