Introduction: Simple, Soothing, and Speedy
Nothing says comfort like a steaming bowl of Easiest Chicken Noodle Soup , and this is truly the easiest version youβll ever make. With tender chicken , soft noodles , and a fragrant broth, it delivers all the warmth and nostalgia of homemade soupβwithout hours at the stove. Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe relies on basic ingredients and minimal prep for maximum flavor and coziness.
Table of Contents
Ingredients (Serves 4β6) π
- 1 tablespoon olive oil π«
- 1 medium onion, diced π§
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced π₯
- 2 celery stalks, sliced πΏ
- 2 garlic cloves, minced π§
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth π
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is ideal) π
- 1 cup egg noodles (or pasta of choice) π
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme πΏ
- 1 bay leaf π
- Salt and black pepper to taste π§
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish) π±
- Juice of Β½ lemon (optional, for brightness) π

Step-by-Step Instructions π©βπ³π
- SautΓ© the Base Vegetables
Warm the olive oil in a large pot set over medium heat until shimmering. Add onion, carrots, and celery. SautΓ© the vegetables, stirring now and then, until they start to soften, which should take around 8 minutes. - Add Garlic and Seasonings
Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for about 3 minute, stirring constantly, until the aroma is releasedβbe careful to avoid browning the garlic. - Pour in the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, turn the heat up to high, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. - Noodle Time
Once boiling, stir in the egg noodles and reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook according to package instructions (usually 6β8 minutes) until noodles are tender. - Add Chicken and Finish
Stir in the cooked chicken and simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove and discard the bay leaf. - Brighten & Garnish
For added freshness, stir in lemon juice. Spoon the soup into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
Why This Recipe Works βοΈ
- Minimal Hands-On Time: SautΓ©, simmer, and serve in just half an hour. β³
- Rotisserie Shortcut: Using pre-cooked chicken drastically cuts down prep time. π
- Balanced Flavor: Carrots, celery, and onion (mirepoix) build a classic, savory base. π₯π§ πΏ
- Customizable: Swap in gluten-free noodles, add extra veggies, or boost herbs. π

Health Benefits πͺπ₯¦
- Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, supplying vital amino acids that help maintain and build muscle strength.
- Hydration & Electrolytes: Broth-based soups help you stay hydrated and replace minerals. π§
- Vitamins & Fiber: Carrots and celery supply vitamins A and K, plus dietary fiber.
- Immune Support: Garlic and onion contain compounds that may support the immune system. π§π§
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving β Approximate) π
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Sugars | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Nutritional values can differ based on the brand of broth used and the size of the serving.
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Pro Tips & Variations π‘
- Herb Boost: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a pinch of dried tarragon for extra aroma. πΏ
- Veggie Upgrade: Toss in peas, corn, spinach, or diced zucchini in the last 3 minutes of cooking. π₯π½
- Creamy Twist: Stir in ΒΌ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer broth. π₯₯
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce at the end. πΆοΈ
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or swap noodles for rice or spiralized vegetables. ππ₯

Make-Ahead & Storage π§
- Prep in Advance: Chop vegetables and shred chicken up to 24 hours aheadβstore covered in the fridge. π₯
- Store the cooled soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove. π₯
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze soup (without noodles) up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, reheat, then add freshly cooked noodles. βοΈ
Serving Suggestions π½οΈ
- Classic Pairing: Offer warm crusty bread or homemade biscuits for dipping. π₯
- Light Sides: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed greens to complete the meal. π₯
- Comfort Combo: Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches for a nostalgic twist. π§
With its straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this Ultimate Easiest Chicken Noodle Soup delivers on comfort and convenience. Whether youβre nursing a cold π€§, feeding a crowd π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦, or just craving wholesome goodness, itβs the perfect go-to soup for any occasion. Enjoy! ππ²
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