The first time I made this homemade chicken noodle soup I had just moved into my first apartment and was feeling a little under the weather so I decided to try making something from scratch that reminded me of home and comfort. And with a few basic ingredients and a whole lot of stirring I ended up with a pot of soup that tasted like a warm hug and from that day on it’s become my favorite way to care for myself and others.

Because this soup is more than just a meal it’s a tradition that’s been on repeat in my kitchen for years and whenever someone in my family has a cold or a rough day this is what I bring to the table it’s soothing filling and the aroma alone can lift your mood instantly.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Chicken breast or thighs – The heart of the soup providing lean protein and rich flavor.
Carrots – Bring sweetness and a pop of color to the broth.
Celery – Adds crunch and a fresh aromatic base.
Onion – A must-have for building savory depth.
Garlic – Adds a subtle warmth and savory boost to the broth.
Egg noodles – Classic and comforting they soak up the flavor perfectly.
Chicken broth – The base of the soup that ties all the ingredients together.
Bay leaf – Infuses the soup with gentle herbal notes.
Fresh parsley – Adds freshness and brightness to the final dish.
Olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables and build the flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer of the soup.

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot or Dutch oven – Perfect for making a big batch and giving everything space to simmer evenly.
Cutting board and knife – For prepping all your veggies and chicken.
Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring without damaging your pot.
Ladle – For serving up the perfect bowl every time.
Measuring cups and spoons – To keep ingredient ratios just right.
Soup strainer (optional) – Helps remove bay leaf or skim the surface if needed.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and then I add the onions carrots and celery cooking until they begin to soften which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Step 2:

Next I stir in the garlic and cook it for another minute until it’s fragrant but not browned.

Step 3:

Then I add the chicken broth and the bay leaf and bring the whole pot to a gentle boil.

Step 4:

I add the raw chicken pieces directly into the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer then I cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5:

Once the chicken is cooked I take it out of the pot and shred it using two forks then I return it to the soup.

Step 6:

Now I stir in the egg noodles and let them cook in the broth for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender.

Step 7:

Finally I season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and just before serving I sprinkle in chopped fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch.

Tips

If I have leftover rotisserie chicken I sometimes use that instead of cooking the chicken in the broth it saves time and still tastes amazing. You can also swap the noodles for rice or orzo for a different twist. And if you want a deeper flavor simmer the broth with the bay leaf and a few sprigs of thyme for an extra ten minutes before adding the chicken.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this homemade chicken noodle soup with a thick slice of buttered bread or warm rolls. It’s also great with a simple side salad or even a grilled cheese sandwich for extra comfort. And when I’m feeling under the weather a mug of this soup is all I need to feel just a little better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes you can! Just make sure to store it without the noodles as they can become mushy when thawed and reheated.

Can I use leftover chicken for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! It’s a great way to repurpose cooked chicken and speed up the process.

Can I make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes just sauté the veggies first then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

How long does Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator.

See You in the Kitchen

I truly hope this homemade chicken noodle soup brings as much comfort to your table as it has to mine over the years. Whether it’s for healing warmth or just a cozy meal to enjoy with family it’s always a winner in my kitchen. Let me know if you try it out I’d love to hear how it goes!

Happy Cooking!