Classic Chicken Soup: A Timeless Comfort

Classic Chicken Soup is the quintessential comfort food that has been warming hearts and bellies for generations. With tender chunks of chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving something cozy, or simply want a hearty meal, this soup is the perfect choice. The combination of carrots, celery, and onions, along with the aromatic garlic and herbs, creates a flavorful base that’s only made better by the addition of shredded chicken and egg noodles. Simple yet flavorful, this chicken soup is a timeless recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this soup comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

2. Comforting and Hearty

This soup is filling and hearty, with a nourishing broth and tender chicken. It’s the kind of meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

3. Full of Flavor

The combination of fresh vegetables, garlic, and aromatic herbs like thyme and parsley infuses the broth with rich flavors that make each spoonful enjoyable.

4. Customizable

You can easily customize this soup to suit your taste or dietary needs by swapping in different vegetables or using gluten-free noodles for a healthier option.

5. Great for Leftovers

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for several days and actually tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles in place of regular egg noodles for a gluten-free version of this soup.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
• More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like peas, corn, or green beans, to make the soup even more hearty.
• Herb Swap: Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter flavor. Fresh thyme and parsley can add an extra pop of flavor to the soup.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 2: Add the Chicken Stock

Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Noodles

Add the cooked, shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Stir everything together and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If you want a bit more flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a little bit of soy sauce to enhance the broth.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Homemade Stock: If you have time, homemade chicken stock will give the soup even more depth of flavor than store-bought. It’s especially good if you have leftover chicken bones.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Egg noodles can become mushy if overcooked, so be sure to add them toward the end of the cooking process and watch them closely.
• Shred the Chicken Easily: If you want to shred your chicken quickly, use a hand mixer on low speed. It works like a charm and saves time!
• Customize the Vegetables: If you don’t have carrots or celery on hand, you can use other vegetables like parsnips, zucchini, or potatoes. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking times as needed.

How to Serve

Classic Chicken Soup is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a side of freshly baked bread or warm crackers. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad, or serve it alongside a classic sandwich like grilled cheese or turkey and Swiss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or extra broth if it becomes too thick.

Freezing

This soup can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick after being refrigerated or frozen, add a little extra chicken stock or water to thin it out.

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FAQs

1. Can I use different pasta in this soup?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, like shells, penne, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the type of pasta you choose.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the soup in a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker, including the chicken stock, chicken, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

3. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding and adding it to the soup.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to give the soup an extra kick. Adjust the heat level to your preference.

5. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh herbs like thyme and parsley in place of the dried versions. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried herbs (e.g., 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme for 1 teaspoon dried thyme).

6. How long will this soup keep in the fridge?

The soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

7. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be aware that the noodles may become soft when reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container.

8. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make the soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

9. Can I use store-bought broth instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought broth works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just be sure to use a high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.

10. How can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Soup is a simple, yet nourishing dish that never goes out of style. Its wholesome ingredients and rich flavors make it the perfect meal for any occasion—whether you need comfort on a sick day or a quick, satisfying dinner. With tender chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with a side of bread, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.