Chicken noodle soup is one of the most loved, comforting foods that you can enjoy year-round. The classic soup is hearty, filling, and a perfect way to soothe your taste buds when feeling under the weather. Not only does warming soup filled with hot broth and nutritious vegetables make you feel better, but it’s also easy to make and requires minimal effort.
If you’re new to making soup, don’t worry. This article will guide you through the essential steps of making chicken noodle soup, and by the end, you’ll be able to make a perfect pot of soup every time.
Ingredients:
To make chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 5 medium carrots, chopped
– 4 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups chicken stock
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden brown.
Step2: Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, because it will give the soup a bitter taste.
Step 3: Add chicken stock to the soup pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add chicken breasts, bay leaf, and season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Turn down the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. During this time, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
Step 5: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and use two forks to shred them into bite-size pieces.
Step 6: Return the shredded chicken to the soup pot and add egg noodles. Let the soup cook for an additional 8 to 10 minutes or until the noodles are al dente.
Step 7: Remove from heat and let the soup cool for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs:
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but the soup’s flavor will not be the same as using raw chicken breasts in the recipe. If you use pre-cooked chicken, add the chicken to the soup pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. Can I use store-bought chicken stock instead of homemade?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought chicken stock for homemade chicken stock. It can impact the final taste, however, so be sure to read the ingredient list and choose a brand with a high-quality chicken stock.
3. What type of noodles should I use in chicken noodle soup?
The traditional noodle for chicken noodle soup is egg noodles, but you can use any noodles that you have in your pantry. If adding other types of noodles, the cooking time may vary. Check the label directions and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. How long can I store chicken noodle soup in the fridge?
You can store chicken noodle soup in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container. Additionally, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
5. Can I add other vegetables to my chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to your chicken noodle soup to make it even more nutritious. For example, some great veggies to include are zucchini, potato, green beans, and corn. You can also add fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Overall, making chicken noodle soup is a simple but satisfying process. It’s a healthy and hearty meal that is perfect for any season. You can make large batches and enjoy it for several days. It’s also great for taking to sick friends or families. With the ideas and suggestions in this article, you’ll be sure to make a delicious pot of chicken noodle soup every time.
