When the weather turns chilly, the craving for a warm, nourishing bowl of soup always seems to kick in—and nothing hits the spot quite like a classic Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl: simple, satisfying, and packed with comfort. Whether you’re trying to beat a cold, warm up on a rainy night, or just need an easy dinner that brings everyone to the table, this soup has you covered. What makes this version extra special is its balance of rich broth, tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, and just the right amount of seasoning to let the natural flavors shine through. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires just one pot, and comes together in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something homemade without a lot of fuss. I’ve been making variations of this soup for years, often using leftover chicken or switching up the pasta depending on what’s in the pantry. No matter how you tweak it, the result is always warm, cozy, and incredibly satisfying. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need and walk through the first steps to bring this comforting classic to life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

This recipe serves about 6 and is great for reheating or storing for leftovers throughout the week.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add your diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. This is the foundation of your soup, and taking the time to sauté these ingredients helps build flavor right from the start. The combination of garlic and onion with tender veggies creates that classic aroma we all associate with homemade soup.

 

Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken

Next, pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Add your shredded cooked chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully here), along with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where all those comforting flavors begin to blend and the soup starts to come together. The dried herbs add a cozy, familiar note without overwhelming the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

 

Chicken Noodle Soup: Simmer, Stir, and Serve

Now that your broth is bubbling gently and all the flavors are coming together, it’s time to finish this cozy classic. This next part is where the magic happens—letting the soup simmer just long enough to deepen the flavor, then adding the noodles so they soak up the seasoned broth and give the soup that satisfying heartiness we all crave. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, and you can easily make adjustments to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Let’s get to the next steps and wrap up this one-pot wonder.

Step 3: Simmer to Blend Flavors

Once you’ve added the broth, chicken, and herbs, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to develop and the vegetables time to become perfectly tender without turning to mush. You’ll notice the soup becoming more aromatic, and the chicken, broth, and herbs will meld into a warm, savory base that’s both light and deeply satisfying. Tip: Keep the heat at a gentle simmer—too high, and the vegetables may overcook or the chicken may become tough.

 

Step 4: Add the Noodles

When your vegetables are tender and the broth tastes just right, it’s time to stir in 2 cups of egg noodles (or your favorite pasta). Let them cook directly in the soup according to the package instructions, usually 6 to 8 minutes, until tender. Egg noodles are a classic choice for chicken soup—they’re soft but sturdy enough to hold up well in the broth. If you’re using a different type of pasta (like rotini, ditalini, or even broken spaghetti), just be sure to adjust the cook time accordingly. Optional Tip: If you’re planning to store leftovers, you can cook the noodles separately and add them to individual servings. This helps prevent them from becoming too soft as they sit in the broth.

Step 5: Brighten the Flavor (Optional)

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice if you’re using it. It may sound simple, but this little splash of citrus brings just enough brightness to lift the entire soup and cut through the richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a pinch more salt or pepper if necessary, depending on your broth and personal preference.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the finished soup into warm bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for color and a touch of herbal freshness. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, a side salad, or enjoy it as-is for a classic, no-fuss comfort meal. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and exactly what you want when you’re curled up at home on a cold evening.

Variations and Helpful Tips

• Add extra veggies like peas, corn, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
• Switch up the protein by using turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover roasted chicken thighs.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles or rice instead of egg noodles.
• Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce for a subtle kick.

 

Chicken Noodle Soup: FAQ and Final Thoughts

There’s a reason chicken noodle soup is one of the most beloved comfort foods of all time. It’s warm, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for chilly evenings, sick days, or just when you want something simple and satisfying. And with this recipe, you’ve got a version that’s as easy to make as it is to love. To help you get the most out of every pot, here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about homemade chicken noodle soup. 1. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked? Yes, you can. If using raw chicken breast or thighs, add it to the pot when you add the broth. Simmer until fully cooked (about 15–20 minutes), then remove, shred, and return it to the soup before adding the noodles. 2. What’s the best type of noodle to use? Egg noodles are traditional and cook quickly, but you can use any small pasta like ditalini, rotini, or even broken spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta. 3. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely. This soup reheats beautifully. If you’re planning to store it, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them when reheating to avoid sogginess. 4. How should I store leftovers? Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If possible, keep the noodles separate to preserve their texture. You can also freeze the soup (without noodles) for up to 3 months. 5. How do I reheat this soup? Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. 6. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes. Add all ingredients except the noodles and lemon juice to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir in lemon juice before serving. 7. What can I serve with chicken noodle soup? It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, grilled cheese, buttered rolls, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic for Every Season

This Best Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is one you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. It’s quick, wholesome, and packed with flavor—and it can easily be adjusted to match whatever you’ve got in your kitchen. Whether you stick with the traditional version or get creative with your own mix-ins, it always delivers that familiar, feel-good comfort that keeps everyone coming back for another bowl. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Did you use homemade broth? Try a new noodle shape? Add an unexpected ingredient? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments—we’re all about celebrating simple, delicious meals that bring people together. Here’s to warm bowls, full hearts, and easy dinners that never go out of style. Print