Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Recipes

Savor the warmth and comfort of homemade chicken noodle soup, made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T23:45:17.537Z

This ultimate chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or when you need a comforting bowl of goodness. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, it’s a dish that warms the soul.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich, homemade flavor that beats store-bought versions
  • Comforting and hearty, perfect for any occasion
  • Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean protein

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it's made from scratch. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth into one delicious dish. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply want to indulge in a cozy meal, this soup is sure to warm your heart and lift your spirits.

Homemade chicken noodle soup offers a richness that pre-packaged versions can't match. By using fresh ingredients and taking the time to prepare the soup from scratch, you ensure that every spoonful is filled with vibrant flavors. Unlike many store-bought soups that can be overly salty or filled with preservatives, this recipe allows you to control the ingredients and create a wholesome dish that your family will love.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the great things about chicken noodle soup is its versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the flavors to suit your taste. For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans to make the soup your own.

If you're looking for a heartier option, try adding potatoes or even dumplings for a more filling meal. For those who prefer a lighter soup, simply reduce the amount of noodles. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be tailored to your preferences, making it a go-to dinner option for any occasion.

Storing and Freezing Tips

After enjoying your delicious chicken noodle soup, you might be left with some leftovers. Luckily, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened.

For longer storage, consider freezing your soup. To do this, let it cool and portion it into freezer-safe containers. Chicken noodle soup can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. This makes for a quick and easy meal on busy nights, ensuring that homemade comfort is always within reach.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious chicken noodle soup from scratch.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

With these ingredients, you're ready to make a comforting bowl of soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your ultimate chicken noodle soup.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the whole chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Make the Broth

Return the chicken to the pot, add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Add Noodles

Remove the chicken, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Add egg noodles and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!

Now that your soup is ready, gather your loved ones and enjoy this warm, comforting meal!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken noodle soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad can elevate your meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly. For a more indulgent treat, serve it alongside homemade garlic bread for a comforting dining experience.

You can also consider adding a side of crackers or breadsticks for some crunch. For those chilly evenings, a warm slice of cornbread can add a delightful twist to your meal.

Health Benefits

This ultimate chicken noodle soup not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. The combination of lean chicken and fresh vegetables offers a powerhouse of nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals. Carrots and celery add fiber and essential nutrients, making this soup a nutritious choice for any day.

Moreover, chicken noodle soup is often recommended as a remedy for colds and flu. The warm broth can help soothe sore throats, while the steam may ease nasal congestion. It’s a wholesome way to nourish your body when you need it most.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, corn, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

Savor the warmth and comfort of homemade chicken noodle soup, made from scratch with fresh ingredients.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration40 minutes
Overall Time60 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Simple Comfort Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
  2. 8 cups chicken broth
  3. 2 cups egg noodles
  4. 2 carrots, diced
  5. 2 celery stalks, diced
  6. 1 onion, chopped
  7. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  8. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  9. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the whole chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 02

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 03

Return the chicken to the pot, add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 04

Remove the chicken, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Add egg noodles and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.

Step 05

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 25g