Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch

There's nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup.

Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply craving a warm, hearty meal, this classic dish never fails to deliver. Making chicken noodle soup from scratch not only ensures that you control the quality of the ingredients but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that can lift anyone's spirits.

In this article, we’ll delve into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the health benefits of homemade chicken noodle soup. Let’s embark on this culinary journey to create a dish that's as nourishing as it is delicious.

The Essence of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a timeless recipe passed down through generations. Unlike store-bought versions, making it from scratch ensures a rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken pieces, and perfectly cooked noodles.

The process may seem labor-intensive, but the results are undoubtedly worth the effort.

Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

To create an authentic and flavorful chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Broth

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
10 cups of water
2 large onions, quartered
3 carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
3 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
4 cloves of garlic, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
Salt to taste

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
3 celery stalks, sliced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
8 ounces egg noodles
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Juice of 1 lemon (for a fresh, tangy flavor)

Step By Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

1. Rinse the Chicken

Rinse the Chicken: Start by rinsing a whole chicken under cold water and removing any excess fat. Place the chicken in a large stockpot.

2. Add Vegetables and Spices

Prepare the Vegetables: Quarter 2 onions, cut 2 large carrots into large pieces, and chop 2 celery stalks.
Add to Pot: Add the prepared vegetables to the pot along with 4 garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, 10 peppercorns, and 1 tablespoon of salt.

3. Boil and Simmer

Add Water: Pour in 10 cups of water, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
Boil: Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.

4. Strain the Broth

Remove Chicken: After the chicken is fully cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool.
Strain: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot or a large bowl, discarding the vegetables and spices.
Cool and Skim: Let the broth cool and skim off any fat that rises to the top.

5. Shred the Chicken

Shred: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the skin and bones.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add Vegetables: Add 1 diced onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 sliced celery stalks. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add Garlic and Herbs

Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of oregano (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Combine Broth and Vegetables

Add Broth: Pour the strained chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
Boil: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Cook the Noodles

Add Noodles: Add 2 cups of egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender.

5. Add Shredded Chicken

Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through.
Season: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Finish and Serve

Add Lemon Juice: For a fresh, tangy flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Variations From Around The World

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a versatile dish that can be found in various forms around the world, each with its unique twist on flavors and ingredients. Here are some popular variations:

1. Asian Chicken Noodle Soup

Japanese Ramen: Uses miso or soy-based broth, with ramen noodles, boiled eggs, nori (seaweed), and vegetables like bok choy. Often flavored with ginger and garlic.
Thai Chicken Noodle Soup: Features a coconut milk base, spiced with lemongrass, lime leaves, and red curry paste. Uses rice noodles and is garnished with cilantro, lime, and bean sprouts.
Vietnamese Pho: Made with a fragrant broth infused with star anise, cloves, and cinnamon. Uses rice noodles and is served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili peppers.

2. European Chicken Noodle Soup

Italian Minestrone: Combines chicken broth with tomatoes, beans, and vegetables like zucchini and carrots. Uses small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo.
Greek Avgolemono: A creamy soup made with chicken broth, rice or orzo, and thickened with an egg-lemon mixture. Garnished with dill or parsley.
Polish Rosół: A clear broth soup with thin egg noodles, root vegetables, and often flavored with parsley and black pepper.

3. Latin American Chicken Noodle Soup

Mexican Sopa de Fideos: Uses a tomato-based broth with vermicelli noodles. Often includes vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and corn, and is flavored with cumin and garlic.
Peruvian Aguadito: A green soup made with cilantro, peas, and rice. Flavored with aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper) and often served with potatoes and corn.

4. African Chicken Noodle Soup

Moroccan Chicken Soup: Spiced with cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and saffron. Includes chickpeas, lentils, and vermicelli noodles, and is garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.

5. American Chicken Noodle Soup

Classic American Chicken Noodle Soup: Made with a clear chicken broth, wide egg noodles, carrots, celery, and onions. Seasoned with thyme and parsley.
Southern Chicken and Dumplings: Uses a thicker broth and is topped with soft dumplings instead of noodles. Flavored with pepper and sometimes with a touch of cream.

Other Ways Of Enjoying Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a comforting and versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some of the best serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience:

1. Bread and Rolls

Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty baguette or a rustic sourdough bread. The crunchy texture complements the softness of the noodles and vegetables.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Garlic Bread: Adds a savory, aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

2. Salads

Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make a nice pairing with the soup's soothing flavors.
Greek Salad: The tangy feta, olives, and cucumber offer a refreshing complement to the chicken noodle soup.

3. Sandwiches

Grilled Cheese: The gooey cheese and crispy bread make for a comforting and indulgent pairing.
Turkey Club: A turkey club sandwich with bacon, lettuce, and tomato adds a satisfying protein boost.
Ham and Swiss: The savory flavors of ham and Swiss cheese create a delightful combination with the soup.

4. Condiments and Garnishes

Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors of the soup.
Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes can add a spicy kick.

5. Side Dishes

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich, hearty side that complements the light broth.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted root vegetables adds a robust, earthy flavor that pairs well with the chicken soup.
Stuffed Peppers: Serve with stuffed bell peppers filled with rice, vegetables, and cheese for a complete, satisfying meal.

6. Beverages

White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the soup, adding a touch of elegance.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint can enhance the comforting experience.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing, palate-cleansing option, serve with chilled sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime.

7. Desserts

Apple Pie: A classic apple pie provides a sweet, comforting end to the meal.
Lemon Bars: The tartness of lemon bars contrasts nicely with the savory soup.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: A batch of warm, gooey cookies offers a delightful finish.

Health Benefits and Nutrition

Rich in Nutrients

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a nutritional powerhouse. It provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken offers high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth, while the vegetables supply vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

Hydration and Electrolytes

The broth in chicken noodle soup is hydrating and replenishes electrolytes, which is especially beneficial if you’re feeling under the weather. It can help soothe sore throats and clear nasal congestion, making it a natural remedy for colds and flu.

Immune-Boosting Properties

Garlic and onions, both present in this soup, are known for their immune-boosting properties. They contain compounds like allicin that have antimicrobial effects, which can help fight off infections.

Easy on Digestion

Chicken noodle soup is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest, making it an excellent choice for those recovering from illness or dealing with digestive issues. The warm broth can also help stimulate the digestive system.

Comfort and Mental Well-Being

There's a reason chicken noodle soup is often referred to as comfort food. The act of making and eating this homemade soup can have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being. The familiar, soothing taste can evoke positive memories and feelings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

While the exact nutritional content can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, here’s a general overview of a typical serving of homemade chicken noodle soup:

Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
Protein: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
Fat: 8-10 grams
Fiber: 2-3 grams
Sodium: 600-800 mg (can be adjusted based on salt added)

Conclusion

Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines culinary tradition with health benefits.

From the rich, homemade broth to the tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, every element contributes to a dish that's both nourishing and comforting.

Making this soup from scratch might take a bit more time and effort, but the result is a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s well worth it.

So, the next time you're looking for a way to warm up on a chilly day or seeking a natural remedy for a cold, turn to this classic homemade chicken noodle soup recipe. It’s a timeless favorite that brings both comfort and health benefits to your table. Enjoy!