Easy Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles

Nothing soothes the soul quite like a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy, nourishing meal, this easy recipe hits all the right notes. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft, slurp-worthy egg noodles, it’s a bowl of comfort made right at home.

This version of chicken noodle soup is quick enough for busy weeknights but flavorful enough to taste like it simmered all day. Using simple ingredients and a few pro tips, you’ll have a homemade classic on the table in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🕒 Quick & easy – Ready in about 40 minutes
• 🍗 Tender chicken – Shredded or cubed for comfort and protein
• 🍜 Egg noodles – Hearty, satisfying, and perfect for soaking up flavor
• 🥕 Classic veggies – Carrots, celery, and onions for timeless taste
• ❄️ Perfect for cold days – A bowl of warmth and nostalgia

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cups wide egg noodles (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
2. Add Broth & Seasonings
   Pour in the chicken broth. Add salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer the Soup
   Add the shredded or diced chicken. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Add the Egg Noodles
   Stir in uncooked egg noodles and cook for 8–10 minutes until noodles are tender.
5. Finish with Herbs & Lemon
   Remove bay leaf. Stir in parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
6. Serve Hot
   Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Recipe Details

this recipe

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg

Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time
• Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end
• Boost the veggies: Add peas, spinach, or zucchini
• Go low-carb: Swap egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or cabbage strips
• Make-ahead: Cook everything but the noodles, then add them fresh when reheating

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, you can add raw chicken breasts or thighs in step 2 and simmer until fully cooked (about 20 minutes), then shred before adding noodles.

Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes—freeze the soup without noodles. Add fresh noodles when reheating for best texture.

How do I keep noodles from getting mushy?
Cook noodles just until tender, and avoid reheating repeatedly. You can also cook them separately and add to each bowl when serving.

Can I use other pasta?
Absolutely! Use rotini, shells, or even spaghetti broken into pieces.

Conclusion

This chicken noodle soup recipe is the definition of comfort made easy. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just what you need when craving something classic and warming. Whether you’re feeding a sick loved one, stocking the freezer, or just chasing the nostalgia of homemade soup, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.