Chicken noodle soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth that’s both soothing and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, looking for comfort on a chilly day, or needing something restorative when you’re under the weather, this soup always delivers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy enough for weeknights yet timeless enough to be passed down as a family favorite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort in every spoonful: The rich broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles make this soup deeply soothing.
Quick and fuss-free: Using rotisserie chicken saves time without losing flavor.
Versatile: Switch up the noodles, vegetables, or protein to suit your pantry.
Family-friendly: A recipe that appeals to both kids and adults.
Perfect for make-ahead meals: It stores well and tastes even better the next day.

: Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a hearty pot of chicken noodle soup:

½ tablespoon unsalted butter
2 celery ribs, diced
3–4 large carrots, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
10 cups chicken stock or broth
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon dried rosemary
⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
4 cups egg noodles (or another bite-size pasta)
3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste or granules (optional, for richer flavor)

💡 Tip: If you’re making homemade broth, adjust seasonings carefully since the flavor will already be rich.

Instructions

Sauté the vegetables: In a large stockpot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add celery and carrots, cooking for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the broth: Pour in the chicken stock. Add salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and taste—adjust seasoning with bouillon if needed.
Cook the noodles: Bring the broth to a gentle boil. Add noodles and cook until just al dente. Remove from heat to prevent overcooking.
Add the chicken: Stir in shredded chicken and let it warm through. Taste again and adjust seasonings.
Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls and enjoy right away.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 310
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 780mg

Tips & Variations

Avoid mushy noodles: Cook pasta until just al dente, and if storing leftovers, keep noodles separate until serving.
Boost the flavor: Taste the broth before adding extra salt; bouillon can make it saltier quickly.
Make it richer: Use homemade chicken stock for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Add veggies: Peas, corn, spinach, or green beans bring extra color and nutrition.
Protein swaps: Turkey, roast chicken, or even shredded beef work as great alternatives.
Gluten-free option: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Chicken Noodle Soup

A comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for cold days or family meals.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 6

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

– ½ tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 celery ribs diced
– 3–4 large carrots diced
– 1 clove garlic minced
– 10 cups chicken stock or broth
– 1 teaspoon salt to taste
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– ⅛ teaspoon dried rosemary
– ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
– ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
– 4 cups egg noodles or another bite-size pasta
– 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
– 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste or granules optional

Equipment

– Large stockpot
Wooden spoon
Ladle

Method

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery and carrots; sauté 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Pour in chicken stock. Add rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir and adjust with bouillon if needed.
Bring broth to a boil. Add noodles and cook until just al dente. Remove from heat.
Stir in shredded chicken. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

– For best storage, cook noodles separately if planning to refrigerate or freeze.
– Homemade chicken stock will give the richest flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes, but freeze it without the noodles. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating to avoid a mushy texture.

Q: How do I thicken the broth?
Let the soup simmer longer to reduce, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water).

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook the vegetables, broth, and seasonings on low for 6–7 hours. Add the chicken near the end, and cook noodles separately before serving.

Q: What should I serve with chicken noodle soup?
Crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly with this cozy dish.

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is more than just a recipe—it’s comfort, nourishment, and family tradition all in one pot. With its tender chicken, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles, this dish is a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Whether you’re serving it on a cold evening, preparing it for someone under the weather, or simply craving a warm, homemade meal, this soup will always deliver satisfaction.