There’s something uniquely comforting about a bowl of hearty chicken noodle soup. Whether you're feeling under the weather or seeking solace from a chilly day, this classic comfort food never fails to warm both the body and soul. Today, we'll delve into a simple yet sumptuous recipe for chicken noodle soup that promises to bring comfort food bliss to your table. With a focus on rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, let's journey through the steps to create this cherished dish.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's assemble the ingredients you'll need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3 to 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups of chicken broth or bone broth for extra nutrition
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200 grams of egg noodles or your choice of pasta
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice (optional for a zesty touch)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the whole chicken generously with salt and pepper. This will help to infuse flavor into the soup from the get-go.
2. Searing the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pot, allowing it to sear until it turns golden brown on each side. This step adds depth to the soup's flavor.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
After removing the chicken, reduce heat to medium, and in the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Add minced garlic, cooking for another minute.
4. Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in a bit of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping the flavorful bits from the bottom. Then, add the rest of the broth, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and the seared chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, covering the pot partially. Let it cook for about 1 hour or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
5. Remove and Shred Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat, discarding the bones. This can be done by pulling the meat apart with your fingers or using forks.
6. Adding Pasta
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the noodles. Simmer until the noodles are al dente, following package instructions for timing.
🔔 Note: Adding noodles directly into the soup can lead to them absorbing too much liquid if not served immediately. If preparing in advance, cook noodles separately and add them when reheating the soup.
7. Finishing Touches
Stir in fresh parsley, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and if you prefer, a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve this hearty chicken noodle soup hot, garnished with a little more fresh parsley or perhaps a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
+
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas, use vegetable broth, and consider adding more legumes for protein.
How long will this soup last in the fridge?
+
Properly stored, this soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool it down quickly and store it in airtight containers.
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
+Yes, you can freeze this soup, but for best results, freeze it without the noodles. They can become mushy when thawed and reheated. You can cook fresh noodles when you reheat the soup.
As we wrap up this culinary journey, remember that the beauty of this hearty chicken noodle soup lies not just in its nourishing qualities but also in its simplicity. It’s a dish that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special, offering a blanket of comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re crafting it for yourself, your family, or sharing it with friends, this soup is a testament to the timeless appeal of comfort food bliss. Enjoy the process of making this soup, and may each bowl serve as a warm, comforting hug.
