Chicken Noodle Soup
The best cure for a house full of stuffy noses and colds. This homemade chicken noodle soup is a staple for my boys when they are feeling under the weather. I hope it brings your home the comfort and joy that is brings mine! Don’t forget to pour a good glass of chardonnay while you cook, makes the food taste better! FAV Wine Glasses
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Clucking Good Times: A Family-Approved Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe!"
Welcome to the heartwarming world of homemade goodness, where laughter echoes in the kitchen and the aroma of comfort fills the air. Today, we're diving into a family-favorite recipe that has stood the test of time – Chicken Noodle Soup! Get ready for a delightful journey that's both delicious and fun.
Ingredient Gathering Shenanigans: First things first, assemble your ingredients with the enthusiasm of a treasure hunt! Grab some plump chicken thighs, an array of colorful veggies, your favorite noodle variety (we love the classic egg noodles), and a magical mix of herbs and spices. This is the part where the whole family can join in – assign tasks, dance to some kitchen tunes, and make it a culinary celebration!
The Broth Ballet: Let the chicken breast pirouette in a bubbling broth of goodness. As they gracefully cook, the kitchen becomes a stage for the most aromatic performance. In the meantime, engage in a friendly debate about whether to add a pinch of nostalgia or a dash of memories – spoiler alert: both work wonders!
Veggie Symphony: Chop, dice, and let the veggies create a vibrant orchestra in your soup pot. Carrots, celery, and onions take center stage, bell pepper and garlic add a whimsical twist. As you stir in the veggies, imagine the colorful notes swirling together, creating a melody that will soon become a family anthem.
Noodle Extravaganza: Now comes the noodle magic! Drop those egg noodles into the pot like confetti at a celebration. Watch as they soak up the flavors, transforming the broth into a symphony of textures. Discuss the ideal noodle-to-soup ratio – a critical topic that may spark some friendly debates.
Seasoning Serenade: Time to add the seasoning, the secret ingredient that ties everything together. Sprinkle in love, a dash of laughter, and a pinch of shared stories. This is where family traditions and personal preferences collide, creating a unique flavor profile that reflects your family's taste. (Pro Tip: Season in layers, always season throughout the process to make sure that flavor embodies the entire meal!)
The Grand Finale: As your Chicken Noodle Soup masterpiece simmers to perfection, gather the family around the table. Ladle out generous servings, top with a sprinkle of shared joy, and savor the fruits of your collective kitchen adventure. This dish isn't just food; it's a warm hug on a spoon, a reminder that the best memories are often made in the kitchen.
And there you have it – a clucking good Chicken Noodle Soup recipe that transcends generations. From the laughter-filled ingredient gathering to the flavorful finale, this culinary journey is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of family, love, and the joy of creating something together. So, grab your aprons, unleash your inner chef, and let the Chicken Noodle Soup festivities begin!
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Use bone in for more flavor and nutrients)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water
1 teaspoon Italian bouillon
Salt & Pepper: To taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 med chopped carrots
6 cloves fresh garlic
3 stalks chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1 chopped onion (I use yellow onion but you can use white or sweet onion)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
Thyme: Fresh or dried
Bay Leaves: 2
8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
Instructions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, water, Italian bouillon, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil
Add the uncooked chicken breast and cook on medium heat for 1 hour.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove and shred the chicken. Add chicken back to the soup.
Add egg noodles. Cook until the noodles are heated through.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
For a richer or creamier soup, use half and half instead of water.
Season in layers, I like to mix all my spices in the beginning and add seasoning to each step.
If you don't have any uncooked chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken.
To make the soup ahead of time, cook it according to the directions and then let it cool completely. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, reheat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
This soup is also great for freezing. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it over low heat until warmed through.