This classic chicken noodle soup combines tender shredded chicken and egg noodles with celery, leek, carrot, thyme, and parsley in a flavorful golden broth.
Using prepared stock and cooked chicken makes it a comforting homemade meal that is ready in about 35 minutes.
Prep: 15 min · Cook: 20 min · Total: 35 min
Cuisine: American · Course: Soup
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Card
Ingredients
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the celery, leek, and carrot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened.
- Pour in the chicken stock, then add the bay leaf, thyme, and shredded chicken. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
- Add the egg noodles and stir well. Cook for about 10 minutes, or according to the package directions, until the noodles are tender.
- Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper, ladle into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
- Rinse the leek thoroughly to remove grit between the layers.
- Cook the noodles only until tender so they do not become mushy.
- Use low-sodium stock and adjust the salt after the noodles are cooked.
- Add fresh parsley at serving time for the brightest flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, wide noodles instead of egg noodles, or diced onion in place of leek. Add frozen peas during the final 3 minutes, or finish with lemon juice for extra brightness.
Storage and Reheating
For the best texture, store the noodles separately from the broth for up to 3 days. If the soup is already combined, add a splash of stock while reheating because the noodles absorb liquid. Freeze the broth and chicken without noodles for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook the noodles separately?
Yes. This is especially helpful for meal prep because the noodles will not continue absorbing broth in the refrigerator.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes. Remove the skin, shred the meat, and add 2 cups to the broth as directed.
How can I make gluten-free chicken noodle soup?
Use a certified gluten-free pasta and check that the chicken stock is also labeled gluten-free.
Prepared with AI assistance from a cookbook reference photo. Ingredient amounts and directions were normalized and rewritten into an original recipe. Review before cooking.
Featured image: AI-generated food photography.