There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s the kind of comfort food that wraps you in a cozy hug, especially when life gets a little hectic. This Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With a handful of fresh ingredients and just 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own soup at home, and with this simple recipe, you can enjoy that homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a spot in your dinner rotation, what you’ll need, and how to make it step by step!
Why Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is Worth Your Time
This isn’t just any chicken noodle soup; it’s a quick, wholesome meal that brings the flavors of home cooking to your table in no time. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is worth your time:
– **Quick Preparation**: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious soup that tastes like it simmered all day.
– **Nutritious**: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this soup offers a healthy balance that’s perfect for any meal.
– **Flexible Ingredients**: Customize it with what you have on hand! Feel free to swap out vegetables or use different types of noodles.
– **Family-Friendly**: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you get started, gather the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced thin (about 1 1/2 large carrots)
- 1 cup celery, sliced thin (about 2 stalks)
- 1 cup sweet Vidalia or yellow onion, peeled and diced small (about 1 medium onion)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 64 ounces (8 cups) low-sodium chicken broth (plus more if desired)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles (or your favorite noodles)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (store-bought rotisserie chicken works great)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Make sure you have the right tools on hand to make your cooking process effortless:
- Large pot – for simmering the soup
- Wooden spoon – for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
- Knife and cutting board – for prepping your vegetables
- Serving bowls – for enjoying your delicious soup
Build Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to bring your Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup to life:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Once boiling, add the wide egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until tender.
Step 4: Mix in the Chicken
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and let it heat through, about 2-3 minutes. If you like, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaves, taste the soup, and adjust with salt and additional pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.
No-Store Runs Needed
This recipe is great because it allows for flexibility. If you find yourself short on certain ingredients, consider these alternatives:
- Rotisserie chicken can save you time on cooking your own chicken.
- Substitute broccoli or green beans for the carrots or celery.
- Any type of pasta can be used; whole wheat or gluten-free options work just as well.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will do in a pinch.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
While making this soup is straightforward, here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overcooked noodles: Add the noodles only when the broth is boiling, and check for doneness a minute or two before the package suggests.
- Too salty: Use low-sodium broth and taste as you season to avoid oversalting.
- Not enough flavor: Ensure to sauté the vegetables adequately and season well; the aromatics are key!
Leftovers & Meal Prep
One of the best things about Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is that it stores beautifully:
Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well; just remember to leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze it, as they can become mushy when thawed. You can always add fresh noodles when reheating.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and will work just as well in this recipe. Just add them along with the broth!
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is an excellent substitute. You can also use water, but the flavor will be milder.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare the soup in advance, but it’s best to add the noodles just before serving to keep them from getting mushy. Store the soup without noodles and cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
What should I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a side salad or some crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a delicious Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells.
If you enjoyed this , here are some other recipes you might want to try:
Make It Tonight
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is not only quick but also a wholesome meal that brings comfort and joy. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the heartwarming aroma wafting through your kitchen as you create this delicious soup. Happy cooking!
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Easy 30-Minute Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the wide egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and let it heat through, about 2-3 minutes. If you like, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Remove the bay leaves, taste the soup, and adjust with salt and additional pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.
Notes
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- This soup freezes well; leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze it.
- Add a splash of broth when reheating if the soup thickens too much.
