There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup-a timeless classic that has soothed sore throats, warmed cold hands, and lifted spirits for generations. But what truly transforms this beloved staple from simple sustenance to soul-warming magic is the choice of noodles. Enter egg noodles: tender, silky ribbons that soak up the savory broth and bring a satisfying texture to every spoonful. in this ultimate guide to classic chicken noodle soup with egg noodles, we’ll delve into the history, the secrets to perfect homemade broth, and tips for cooking egg noodles just right.Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious beginner, prepare to uncover the artistry behind this iconic dish and master the recipe that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Classic chicken noodle soup with egg noodles is the pinnacle of comfort food, its warmth and soulful flavors inviting us back to the kitchen time and again. Rooted in traditions passed down through generations, this beloved dish combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create a bowl that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The secret lies in choosing the freshest ingredients, mastering the art of homemade chicken broth, and perfecting the delicate texture of egg noodles that truly make this soup unforgettable.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous bowls
Difficulty level
Medium – rewarding but approachable for home cooks eager to elevate their soup game
Ingredients
- 1 whole organic chicken (about 3-4 lbs),preferably free-range for the richest broth
- 12 cups cold filtered water
- 3 large carrots,peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 celery stalks,chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion,quartered
- 4 garlic cloves,smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 8 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
- Salt to taste
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (fresh or dried)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley,chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot and cover with 12 cups of cold filtered water. Slowly bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, skimming off foam that forms on the surface for a clear broth.
- Add aromatics: Once skimmed, add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and peppercorns. Reduce heat to low and partially cover. Let simmer gently for 1 to 1½ hours, turning the chicken occasionally so the meat cooks evenly and the flavors meld deeply.
- Strain the broth: Carefully remove the chicken and set aside to cool.Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another large pot. Discard the solids. Season with salt to taste-start with 1 teaspoon, then adjust.
- Shred the chicken: When cool enough to handle, shred the meat, discarding skin and bones. Reserve the tender shredded meat.
- Cook the egg noodles: Bring the broth back to a low boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions if dried (usually 6-8 minutes) or 3-4 minutes if fresh until al dente.Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
- Finish the soup: Stir in the shredded chicken and butter, allowing the butter to melt for a velvety mouthfeel. Adjust salt if needed and remove from heat.
- Serve: Ladle piping hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for a burst of color and brightness.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Perfect Ingredients: For that rich, nourishing taste, opt for organic or free-range chickens. Their natural fat content enriches the broth, yielding deeper flavor and more body.
- Homemade Broth Mastery: Never rush the simmering process-slow and low is the way to coax out the collagen, resulting in a broth with luscious mouthfeel and full complexity. Remember to skim often for clarity.
- Egg Noodles Expertise: Egg noodles are the heart of this soup, providing soft, tender bites that absorb the broth’s essence. invest in fresh or high-quality dried egg noodles and cook just until tender to avoid sogginess.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Broth can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months. Prepare a big batch ahead to have soulful homemade soup ready when needed.
- Vegetable variations: For added depth, roast the carrots, celery, and onions before simmering. This enhances sweetness and imparts subtle caramelized notes to the broth.
Serving suggestions
Serve your classic soup in rustic bowls alongside crusty artisan bread or buttery crackers to soak up every drop. A crisp green salad or a side of roasted root vegetables complements the nourishing warmth perfectly. For an extra touch of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper just before serving.
| Nutrient | per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
Discover more about homemade broth techniques to deepen your culinary skills. for science-backed insights on the nutritional benefits of chicken soup, visit Healthline’s article on chicken soup.
Q&A
Q&A: The Ultimate Guide to Classic Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles
Q1: What makes classic chicken noodle soup truly “classic”?
A: It’s all about the harmony of simple, wholesome ingredients-tender chicken, aromatic veggies like carrots and celery, a flavorful homemade broth, and, of course, those comforting egg noodles. This timeless combination creates a deeply satisfying soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Q2: Why use egg noodles instead of other pasta types?
A: Egg noodles bring a rich,silky texture and a subtle eggy flavor that perfectly complements the broth and chicken. Their slightly chewy bite holds up well in the soup, ensuring each spoonful delivers that ideal balance between broth and noodle.
Q3: Can I use store-bought chicken broth or should I make it from scratch?
A: While store-bought broth can be a solid shortcut, making your own chicken broth unlocks deeper flavors and fresher aromas. Simmering chicken bones with veggies releases gelatin and natural goodness,elevating your soup from simply tasty to soul-warming.
Q4: How do I keep the egg noodles from getting mushy?
A: The key is timing: add the egg noodles in the last 10 minutes of cooking so they cook through but don’t over-soften. Alternatively, cook noodles separately and add just before serving, keeping their texture perfectly al dente.
Q5: What’s the best way to make the chicken tender and flavorful?
A: Slow simmering chicken pieces-preferably bone-in and skin-on-gently infuses the broth with flavor while yielding juicy,tender meat. For extra depth, poach the chicken partially submerged and shred it before returning to the soup.
Q6: Can I customize the veggies or spices in classic chicken noodle soup?
A: Absolutely! While carrots, celery, and onion form the classic base, you can add garlic for punch, fresh thyme or parsley for aroma, or a pinch of turmeric for color and warmth. just remember to keep the soul of the soup intact: warmth, comfort, and balance.
Q7: How can I store and reheat chicken noodle soup without losing flavor or texture?
A: Store the soup and noodles separately if possible-noodles tend to soak up broth and soften over time. When reheating, warm the broth first, then add the noodles to avoid mushiness. Properly stored, your soup can bring cozy comfort days after cooking.
Q8: Is chicken noodle soup healthy?
A: Indeed! It’s a nutrient-rich dish packed with protein, vitamins from vegetables, and hydration from the broth. Plus, the warmth and aroma can soothe cold symptoms and boost morale on dreary days.
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Dive in, ladle up, and discover why classic chicken noodle soup with egg noodles has remained a beloved staple across kitchens and hearts worldwide!
To Wrap It Up
As the comforting aroma of homemade chicken noodle soup fills your kitchen, you’ll realize that this classic dish is much more than just a recipe-it’s a timeless embrace in a bowl. With tender chicken, silky egg noodles, and a broth that dances with rich, savory notes, you now have everything you need to create a soothing masterpiece from scratch. Whether you’re nursing a cold, seeking a nostalgic meal, or simply craving a hearty bowl of warmth, this ultimate guide ensures your chicken noodle soup rises to the occasion every time. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let this age-old favourite bring a little extra comfort and joy to your table-one spoonful at a time.