This chicken noodle soup is a warm and comforting dish, perfect for the cooler months. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles, it’s one of the best fall chicken recipes to soothe both the body and soul. Whether you’re making it on the stovetop or opting for a crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup version, this recipe is a winner for chilly evenings.
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Creamy Variation (for crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup):
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or 1 cup half-and-half
Method for Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and add the thyme and parsley.
- Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 3: Shredding the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Add the egg noodles and frozen peas to the pot. Simmer for an additional 7-10 minutes until the noodles are cooked and the peas are heated through.
Step 4: Adding Cream (Optional)
For a creamy version, add the heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Stir well to combine and let the soup thicken slightly.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts of Chicken Noodle Soup
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving (without cream)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
This classic chicken noodle soup is low in calories but packed with protein and nutrients, making it both nourishing and satisfying. If you opt for the creamy version, the chicken noodle soup calories may increase slightly depending on the amount of cream used.
Conclusion
This chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for fall and any chilly day. Whether you prefer the classic version or a crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup, this recipe is sure to warm you up and fill your home with delightful aromas. Its simple ingredients and easy method make it a staple in any household.
