There’s something about a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup that instantly feels like a comforting hug. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, looking for something hearty to warm you up, or simply craving a wholesome meal, organic chicken noodle soup checks all the boxes. The joy of making it from scratch is unbeatable, and when you use organic ingredients, you’re not just nourishing your body but also supporting a cleaner, more sustainable way of eating.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into an easy, delicious recipe for organic chicken noodle soup. We’ll break down each step, share some ingredient insights, and give you some helpful tips and variations to make this soup your own. Ready? Let’s get started!
Organic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This organic chicken noodle soup recipe is simple, full of flavor, and absolutely nutritious. It’s made with fresh, organic vegetables, organic chicken, and wholesome egg noodles, making it not only a feel-good meal but a guilt-free one too. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just for yourself, this recipe is easy to scale and always a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serves: 4-6 servings
Ingredients Needed
Before we get into cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients. This soup is all about fresh, organic components that come together beautifully in one pot. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb organic chicken breast or thighs – Bone-in, skinless thighs give more flavor, but chicken breasts work just as well.
- 10 cups organic chicken broth – You can use homemade broth, or store-bought if you’re pressed for time. Make sure it’s organic to keep it healthy.
- 2 tablespoons organic olive oil – For sautéing your veggies and giving the soup a rich flavor.
- 1 medium organic onion, chopped – Onion is the base of the soup’s flavor.
- 3 cloves organic garlic, minced – A little garlic adds that irresistible depth.
- 3 medium organic carrots, sliced – These bring sweetness and color.
- 2 organic celery stalks, chopped – Celery adds a refreshing, crisp texture.
- 2 cups organic egg noodles – You can also use any noodles you like, but egg noodles are the traditional choice for a hearty texture.
- 1 teaspoon organic dried thyme – A staple herb in chicken soup.
- 1 teaspoon organic dried parsley – This adds a fresh herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon organic dried rosemary – A lovely earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasoning for the best flavor.
- Juice of half a lemon – To balance the richness and add a fresh zing.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and extra fresh flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious organic chicken noodle soup.
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Prepare The Chicken
- If you’re using bone-in chicken thighs, cook them first. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside. If you’re using chicken breasts, you can skip this step and add the chicken directly to the broth.
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Sauté Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent. The aroma here is going to be amazing!
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Add Garlic And Seasoning
- Once the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Add the thyme, rosemary, and parsley, stirring them in to release their flavors.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in the organic chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. If you used bone-in chicken, shred the chicken once it cools enough to handle. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. If using chicken breasts, you can dice them into bite-sized pieces and add them now.
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Simmer The Soup
- Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize. During this time, you can also cook your noodles. If you’re using egg noodles, cook them in a separate pot as per package instructions.
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Add The Noodles
- Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, add the cooked noodles into the soup. Stir everything together, then add salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.
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Final Touches
- Once everything is well-mixed, let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the noodles to soak in the soup’s goodness. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, serve hot, and enjoy the warmth and comfort this homemade organic chicken noodle soup brings.
Ingredient Insights
The beauty of this soup lies not only in the flavors but also in the quality of ingredients. Let’s break down why using organic components is such a great choice:
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Organic Chicken
Organic chicken is raised without antibiotics or growth hormones, meaning you’re getting a cleaner, healthier protein source. It’s also typically more flavorful, as organic poultry is allowed to roam and graze more freely, which leads to better texture and taste.
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Organic Chicken Broth
Most commercial broths can be loaded with additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors. Organic chicken broth, on the other hand, is made with minimal processing and is free from synthetic ingredients. You can taste the difference – it’s deeper, richer, and more authentic.
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Fresh Organic Vegetables
Organic vegetables are grown without pesticides, which means they’re healthier for both you and the environment. Plus, they’re typically more flavorful and nutritious. Carrots and celery, in particular, add sweetness and crunch that complement the savory chicken perfectly.
Expert Tips
Here are a few pro tips to take your organic chicken noodle soup to the next level:
- Make the Broth from Scratch: If you have the time, make your own organic chicken broth. It’s surprisingly easy and adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Use Bone-in Chicken: If you have the option, go for bone-in chicken. It adds more flavor to the broth and makes the soup even richer.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If you plan on storing leftovers, cook the noodles separately. Otherwise, they can absorb too much liquid and become mushy. Add them in at the last minute for perfect texture.
- Season in Layers: Taste your soup as you go and season gradually. Adding salt, pepper, and herbs in stages ensures you get a well-balanced flavor.
- Add a Dash of Hot Sauce: If you like a little kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes when serving. It adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the broth.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for organic tofu or beans (like cannellini beans). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian noodle soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add some chopped fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add depth.
- Noodle Options: If you prefer a gluten-free version, you can substitute regular egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
- Extra Veggies: Throw in some spinach, kale, or peas for extra greens. They’ll add freshness and nutrition to the soup.
Final Words
Homemade organic chicken noodle soup is the kind of meal that satisfies both the body and the soul. It’s comforting, nourishing, and full of flavor. By using organic ingredients, you elevate the experience, creating a wholesome meal that’s healthier and more sustainable.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For An Organic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
To make organic chicken noodle soup, you will need organic chicken (preferably free-range), organic carrots, celery, onion, garlic, organic chicken broth or stock, organic egg noodles or whole-grain noodles, herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, and salt and pepper for seasoning.
Can I Use Store-bought Chicken Broth For The Soup?
Yes, you can use store-bought organic chicken broth if you’re short on time. Just make sure it’s made with organic ingredients to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
How Do I Make Organic Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch?
Start by boiling organic chicken in a large pot of water until cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the chicken broth, herbs, and seasoning. Let it simmer before adding the noodles and shredded chicken. Cook until the noodles are tender.
Can I Use A Rotisserie Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes, a rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Ensure the chicken is organic and remove the skin before adding the meat to your soup.
Is There A Way To Make The Soup More Nutritious?
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding extra vegetables like kale, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use whole-grain noodles instead of regular egg noodles for added fiber.
Can I Make Organic Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you plan to store it, add the noodles separately so they don’t get mushy. You can cook the noodles when reheating the soup.
What Are Some Common Variations Of Organic Chicken Noodle Soup?
Some variations include adding ginger and turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost, or using different types of organic noodles, such as rice noodles or gluten-free options. You can also add herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh flavor.
Can I Make Organic Chicken Noodle Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can. Simply add the organic chicken, vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles and shredded chicken towards the end, cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes.
What Should I Serve With Organic Chicken Noodle Soup?
Organic chicken noodle soup pairs well with a side of whole-grain bread, a fresh salad, or even a slice of lemon for added zest. You can also enjoy it with a simple organic grilled cheese sandwich.
How Can I Make Organic Chicken Noodle Soup Gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free noodles made from rice or quinoa. Make sure that your chicken broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free.