There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. For many, it conjures up nostalgic memories of being cared for during a cold or sick day, wrapped in a cozy blanket, sipping a warm and savory broth. One of the most popular versions of this soup is Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, a recipe that stands out not only for its simplicity but also for its depth of flavor and the cozy satisfaction it brings to any meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
- Add thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add shredded chicken and egg noodles. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Comfort Food Staple with a Rich History
Chicken noodle soup is a dish that has transcended generations, providing comfort during times of illness or simply acting as a delicious, easy meal. Its roots can be traced back to ancient times, with early civilizations recognizing the nourishing benefits of a warm, broth-based dish. In fact, the combination of chicken and broth dates back to the 12th century when it was used as a medicinal remedy. While the noodle component didn’t appear until later, likely during the 18th century, it became a staple of the dish, making it more substantial and filling.
By the early 20th century, chicken noodle soup had become a quintessential American comfort food. Whether served in homes across the country or in convenient canned varieties from brands like Campbell’s, it remained the go-to choice for a soothing, easy-to-make meal. However, Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup recipe, like many others, takes the classic dish up a notch by utilizing fresh ingredients and homemade broth, delivering a taste that far surpasses the processed versions we’ve come to know.
The Importance of Homemade Broth
One of the key components that make Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup stand out is the use of homemade chicken broth. While store-bought broth or stock can serve as a quick substitute, homemade broth is the secret to achieving that rich, full flavor that makes this soup so irresistible. Making your own broth allows you to control the seasoning, making it perfectly tailored to your taste.
The process of creating homemade chicken broth involves simmering chicken bones, vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, and herbs in water over a period of several hours. This slow simmering extracts all the nutrients, collagen, and flavors from the bones, creating a rich, gelatinous base that’s both nourishing and delicious. The result is a silky smooth broth that adds an extra layer of depth to the soup.
Chef John’s recipe encourages making the broth from scratch, which is one of the reasons it has garnered so much praise. The homemade broth provides a flavor that simply cannot be replicated by canned options, elevating this humble soup to a whole new level.
Noodles: The Heart of Chicken Noodle Soup
Of course, no chicken noodle soup is complete without its signature noodles. The noodles you choose can have a significant impact on the final dish. Chef John’s version uses classic egg noodles, which are the perfect vehicle for soaking up the flavorful broth. These soft, chewy noodles are traditionally used in chicken noodle soups due to their ability to hold up in liquid without becoming too mushy.
While egg noodles are a classic choice, there are plenty of other options to experiment with. For example, you could use wide noodles like pappardelle or even homemade dumplings for a twist on the traditional recipe. The type of noodle you choose can also change the texture of the soup, giving it a more substantial feel or a lighter, more delicate texture.
Variations and Customization
One of the best things about homemade chicken noodle soup is its versatility. While Chef John’s recipe provides a solid foundation, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Whether you’re trying to make the soup lighter, spicier, or even more vegetable-heavy, there’s no shortage of customization options.
Add More Vegetables
For those looking to boost the nutritional value of their soup, adding extra vegetables is an easy way to do so. Common additions include parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes. If you’re aiming for a more hearty soup, you can toss in some greens, like spinach or kale, which wilt beautifully in the broth and add a pop of color and flavor.
Make It Spicy
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. The beauty of chicken noodle soup is that you can balance the heat with the soothing qualities of the broth, creating a comforting yet bold dish.
Try Different Herbs
The herbs you choose can also impact the flavor profile of the soup. While thyme and bay leaves are standard in Chef John’s recipe, experimenting with fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or dill can add an exciting twist. The key is to allow the herbs to infuse their flavor into the broth during the simmering process.
Make It a One-Pot Meal
For busy home cooks looking to simplify the recipe, Chef John’s chicken noodle soup can easily be turned into a one-pot meal. By adding more vegetables or some pre-cooked grains, like rice or quinoa, you can make the soup even more filling without adding extra pots or pans to clean.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
When it comes to making chicken noodle soup, there are a few tips that can help ensure you end up with a delicious bowl of goodness every time.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Noodles can quickly become mushy if left to cook for too long. It’s best to cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving, or cook them in the soup for just 5-7 minutes, as they will continue to cook in the hot broth.
- Season as You Go: Since chicken noodle soup relies on a flavorful broth, it’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process. Add salt, pepper, or additional herbs to build layers of flavor. Remember that the longer the broth simmers, the more intense the flavors will become.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: While you can use raw chicken and cook it in the broth, rotisserie chicken offers a shortcut without sacrificing flavor. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup at the end of the cooking process.
- Skim the Broth: As the broth simmers, you’ll notice foam or impurities rising to the surface. Skimming these off periodically ensures a clearer, cleaner-tasting broth.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Chicken noodle soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving the soup with:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping into the broth.
- A Simple Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Crackers: For a traditional touch, serve the soup with saltines or buttery crackers.
As for drinks, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a cold iced tea can complement the soup beautifully.
Conclusion
Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless dish that brings comfort, nourishment, and warmth to any table. With its rich homemade broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, it’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down and savor each spoonful. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish to soothe a cold or just want to indulge in a satisfying, easy-to-make meal, this chicken noodle soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with variations, make it your own, and enjoy the process of creating a dish that is both delicious and deeply comforting.
