A steaming bowl of Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, filled with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The combination of fresh parsley and dill adds a bright, fragrant touch that enhances the rich, savory broth.
This soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick family meal or meal prep for the week. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy bowl of goodness, this chicken noodle soup is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 oz egg noodles
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of ½ lemon
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the sliced carrots and chopped celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add shredded chicken, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Add egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley, dill, and lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4
Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup: A Bowl of Comfort and Nourishment
Nothing beats a warm, steaming bowl of Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day or when you need a soothing, hearty meal. This soup is a timeless classic, packed with tender chicken, fresh herbs, and wholesome vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful.
The History of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup has been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries. The origins of chicken-based soups date back to ancient China, where boiling chicken with herbs was believed to have healing properties. In European cuisines, chicken soup variations were commonly made with local ingredients, and the addition of noodles became popular in the United States in the early 20th century. Today, it remains one of the most beloved comfort foods worldwide, often recommended as a remedy for colds and flu due to its nourishing ingredients.
Why This Recipe Works
- Aromatic and Flavorful: Fresh herbs like parsley and dill enhance the taste, adding depth to the broth.
- Quick and Easy: This homemade soup can be made in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a healthy meal that fuels the body.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it great for leftovers.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken provides essential amino acids and helps build and repair tissues.
- Carrots and Celery: These classic soup vegetables add natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatics enhance the depth of flavor and have immune-boosting properties.
- Egg Noodles: Soft and tender, egg noodles absorb the flavorful broth while providing energy-rich carbohydrates.
- Fresh Herbs: Dill and parsley brighten the soup, adding freshness and extra nutrients.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon enhances the flavors, adding a slight tang that balances the richness of the broth.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Homemade or High-Quality Broth: If possible, make your own broth by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs for an even richer taste. Otherwise, use a high-quality store-bought chicken broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles toward the end of cooking to prevent them from getting too soft and mushy.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to throw in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for more nutrition and variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
- Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced and nutritious lunch or dinner.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of black pepper for a gourmet touch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, omit the noodles and add them when reheating to avoid them becoming mushy. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if needed. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Variations of Chicken Noodle Soup
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free noodles or swap them for rice or quinoa.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the noodles with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or a spoonful of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Asian-Inspired Twist: Swap out some herbs for ginger and soy sauce, and use rice noodles for a flavorful Asian-style chicken noodle soup.
How to Customize This Recipe
⭐ Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.
🔥 Add Spice: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
🌱 Go Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth.
🍚 Low-Carb Option: Swap noodles for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
How to Serve & Store Chicken Noodle Soup
🥖 Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with a side salad for added greens.
- Sprinkle with extra fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.
🛑 Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Store soup (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding fresh noodles as needed.
Conclusion
This Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup is a dish you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or simply craving a warm, nourishing meal, this recipe is a must-try. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s a comforting, go-to meal that never fails.
Try it today and let the rich, herb-infused broth, tender chicken, and wholesome vegetables bring warmth to your table! 🍜✨