Name: Comforting Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness and flavor.); 4 pieces Bone-in Chicken Thighs (Provides depth of flavor and tender meat.); 1/2 cup Yellow Onion, diced (Enhances the flavor base.); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Enriches the soup with a savory kick.); 3 stalks Celery, diced (Adds crunch and savoriness.); 2 medium Carrots, peeled and sliced (Contributes sweetness and color.); 1/2 tablespoon Dried Thyme (Offers earthy aroma and flavor.); 1/2 tablespoon Dried Basil (Adds aromatic notes.); 2 pieces Bay Leaves (Impart gentle herbal notes.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances the overall flavor profile.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adds a mild heat.); 8 cups Chicken Stock (Forms the soup’s base, enriching taste.); 12 ounces Frozen Egg Noodles (Provides heartiness and texture.)

As I meandered through my favorite farmer’s market last weekend, the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables drew me in, compelling me to create something comforting and warm from scratch. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic dish is not just nourishing; it’s a heartfelt remedy that offers a cozy embrace, especially when the chill of winter sets in. With tender bone-in chicken thighs simmering in a rich broth alongside thick egg noodles and a medley of vegetables, this recipe promises to be a hit at your dinner table. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight while satisfying your family’s cravings for comfort food. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the savory aromas of homemade goodness?

Why Choose Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Warmth and Comfort: This homemade chicken noodle soup is like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights.

Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have dinner simmering away in no time.

Family-Friendly: It’s a dish everyone loves, from picky eaters to gourmet chefs—perfect to bring the family together.

Nourishing Goodness: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe ensures you’re serving nutrition alongside flavor.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the herbs for a unique twist! For more comforting options, check out our Chicken Macaroni Cheese or Chicken Bacon Potato Soup.

Embrace the warmth and nourishment of this classic dish!

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Butter – Adds richness and flavor. Use olive oil as a substitute for a lighter option.
• Bone-in Chicken Thighs – Provides depth of flavor and tender meat. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used but monitor cooking time to avoid drying out.
• Yellow Onion (1/2, diced) – Enhances the flavor base. Shallots could be used for a milder taste.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enriches the soup with a savory kick. Garlic powder can be substituted in smaller amounts (1/4 tsp).

For the Vegetables
• Celery (3 stalks, diced) – Adds crunch and savoriness. Can substitute with diced bell peppers if desired.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and sliced) – Contributes sweetness and color. Frozen carrots are an acceptable alternative for convenience.

For Seasoning
• Dried Thyme (1/2 TBSP) – Offers earthy aroma and flavor. Fresh thyme can be used, adjusting the amount to taste.
• Dried Basil (1/2 TBSP) – Adds aromatic notes. Fresh basil is an alternative but should be used in larger quantities to maintain flavor.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Impart gentle herbal notes. Dried lime leaves can also work in a pinch.
• Salt (1/2 to 1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor profile. Adjust as necessary based on the saltiness of the broth.
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds a mild heat. White pepper can provide a more subtle flavor.

For the Broth & Noodles
• Chicken Stock (8 cups) – Forms the soup’s base, enriching taste. Low-sodium broth is a healthier option.
• Frozen Egg Noodles (12 ounces) – Provides heartiness and texture. Substitute with dried pasta or homemade noodles as per preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large stock pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Watch for the butter to foam slightly and turn golden, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. This creates a rich base for your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, ensuring your soup has depth and flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Season bone-in chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned and develop a nice crust. This browning process enhances the richness of the stock. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside, discarding the skin but reserving the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot with the reserved drippings, add diced celery, sliced carrots, and onion. Sauté these over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, dried basil, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the herbs’ aromatic flavors into your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 4: Simmer the Broth
Pour in 8 cups of chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the delicious bits. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer, covering the pot partially. Let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.

Step 5: Add the Chicken and Noodles
Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the simmering broth. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil and then add 12 ounces of frozen egg noodles. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the savory flavors of the Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken and Serve
Once the noodles are cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces with two forks. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot, distributing it evenly throughout the soup. Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.

Expert Tips for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Browning Matters: Don’t skip browning the chicken; it enriches the soup’s flavor and gives a deeper color to your broth.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible, as they enhance taste and provide nourishment in your homemade chicken noodle soup.
Adjust Noodle Cooking: If you’re making leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheating.
Season to Taste: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust seasonings such as salt and pepper to ensure a perfect flavor balance.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in additional veggies like spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. The chicken can be seared and cooked entirely, then shredded and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before adding to the soup. Just remember to keep the noodles uncooked until you’re ready to serve, as adding them too soon can lead to mushiness. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply heat the broth, stir in the chicken and veggies, and cook the noodles according to package instructions. This way, you’ll savor a heartwarming bowl of soup that feels just as fresh as if you made it that day!

What to Serve with Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Looking to create a delightful meal to accompany your beloved homemade chicken noodle soup?

Fresh Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this warm, crusty loaf enhances the comforting experience of your soup. The satisfaction of tearing off a piece, smeared with butter, is simply irresistible.
Garden Salad: A light, refreshing garden salad adds crunch and bright flavors, balancing the warmth of the soup. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for an extra kick!
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and garlicky, these sticks are an excellent complement to homemade chicken noodle soup. The savory notes pair beautifully while providing a fun finger food element.
Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, these cheesy biscuits soak up the hearty broth, adding a delightful richness to your meal. Serve them warm for the ultimate comfort!
Steamed Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like broccoli or green beans introduce a fresh element to the meal. They’re not only nutritious but also provide a great contrast in texture.
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like herbal iced tea with a splash of lemon can cleanse the palate and round out your meal beautifully. It’s the perfect sip while savoring each bowl.
Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. Its comforting flavors echo the homeliness of your soup, making for a delightful finish.
Homemade Cookies: Soft and chewy cookies are a sweet treat to enjoy after your soup, providing warmth and nostalgia to the table. Who could resist a cookie with their comforting bowl of soup?

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Variations

Feel free to make this comforting soup uniquely yours with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Creamy Addition: Add a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a luscious, creamy texture. It transforms standard comfort into a rich indulgence.
Veggie Boost: Toss in diced potatoes or sweet corn for added sweetness, heartiness, and vibrant color. These additions make the soup even more nourishing and appealing.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of dried varieties for a fragrant twist. Their vibrant flavors can create a unique profile that elevates the dish.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. This can surprise your taste buds and give an unexpected warmth to the soup.
Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving to introduce brightness. The citrusy zing pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Whole Grain Noodles: Substitute conventional egg noodles with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option without compromising the heartiness.
Protein Variation: Swap out chicken thighs for shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker, more convenient option that still delivers incredible flavor.
Sautéed Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of simmering for a nutritious green addition. This provides a pop of color and boosts the healthiness of your meal.

Dive into these variations, and don’t hesitate to also explore our Garlic Chicken Noodle or Chicken Noodle Soup recipes for even more inspiration! Embrace the joy of creating your own culinary masterpiece.

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures that your homemade chicken noodle soup remains fresh and flavorful, perfect for quick lunches or dinner.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze your soup (without noodles) in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

Noodles: To maintain the best texture, cook noodles separately and add them when serving. This keeps them from becoming mushy, ensuring every bowl of your homemade chicken noodle soup is delightful.

Reheating: When reheating, do it gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the broth from boiling too much, which could affect the flavors. Adding a splash of water or broth helps refresh the soup as it warms up.

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for the soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using bone-in chicken thighs because they provide a deeper taste and stay juicy. If you prefer a lighter option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too, but keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent drying out.

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken noodle soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the soup is cooled before sealing it. This makes it perfect for quick reheating during busy weeknights, keeping you nourished without hassle.

Can I freeze homemade chicken noodle soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the soup (without noodles) to airtight containers, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove. Remember to cook fresh noodles when serving along with the soup for best texture!

What should I do if the soup is too salty?
If you find your soup is too salty, don’t worry! You can add additional water or low-sodium broth gradually until it reaches your desired balance. Alternatively, tossing in diced potatoes can help absorb the excess salt as they cook.

Is this soup suitable for my pet?
Homemade chicken noodle soup is wonderful for humans, but it’s best not to give it to pets due to the seasonings and ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to animals. Stick to plain, unseasoned chicken for your furry friends!

How can I customize this chicken noodle soup recipe?
Feel free to explore! You can add your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition, or switch up the herbs for a unique twist. Diced potatoes or corn are great additions for additional sweetness and heartiness—so the more, the merrier!