Chicken Noodle Soup

This Chicken Noodle Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles swim in a broth seasoned with aromatic herbs. Each spoonful is a warm hug for the soul, making it a classic and timeless dish for any occasion.

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Chicken Prep:

• Begin by preparing the chicken. If using chicken breasts, cut them into small pieces. For chicken thighs, you can leave them whole or cut into smaller pieces according to your preference.

1. Searing Chicken:

• Heat oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes or until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

1. Veggie Medley:

• In the same skillet, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Continue cooking for about five minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften, absorbing the flavors left by the chicken.

1. Broth and Seasonings:

• Pour in the chicken broth and water. Sprinkle in the dried bay leaf, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the flavors are well-distributed.

1. Simmer and Infuse:

• Bring the soup to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and let it simmer for twenty minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a savory base for the soup.

1. Noodle Preparation:

• While the soup simmers, prepare the egg noodles separately according to the instructions on the box. Once cooked, rinse and set aside.

1. Chicken Reunion:

• After twenty minutes of simmering, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Continue simmering for another ten minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender.

1. Final Touch:

• Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it. Add the cooked egg noodles to the pot, stirring them into the broth to combine the two ingredients.

1. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle this mouth-watering, piping hot Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For an extra burst of freshness, garnish the soup with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutritional value and color.
• Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick and convenient meals on busy days.
• Serve with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.