How to Make the Best Chicken Noodle Soup (In Just 5 Simple Steps)
Are you ready to level up your chicken noodle soup game? Good. Because let’s face it, a good bowl of chicken noodle soup is one of life’s simplest pleasures. It’s comforting, warm, and (if done right) absolutely delicious. But did you know that making the best chicken noodle soup isn’t always straightforward? It can feel overwhelming if you’re not a seasoned chef, but trust me—once you break it down into simple steps, it’s easier than you think.
And here’s the main benefit: by following these tips, you’ll not only make a hearty, flavorful chicken noodle soup but also set yourself up for success with this recipe. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make the best chicken noodle soup.
1. Cook the Chicken First
The first step to making the best chicken noodle soup is to cook the chicken. It’s important to start with fresh, high-quality chicken. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, that’s fine too, but fresh chicken gives you more control over the flavor and texture.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Seasonings: salt, pepper, and garlic powder
Here’s the thing: you’ll find that cooking the chicken until it’s completely cooked through is key. The longer the chicken cooks, the more flavorful it becomes, and the better it’ll taste in the soup.
Once the chicken is cooked, you’ll need to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This is where experience comes in handy, but even if you’re not the best at shredding, you can use a fork or a knife to tear the meat apart. The goal is to have tender, umami-rich chicken that’ll hold up well in the soup.
2. Make the Sauce
The sauce is what makes the best chicken noodle soup. You’ll find that there are two main ways to make it: one where you puree the vegetables to create a smooth, creamy base, and another where you keep the veggies chopped for a more hearty texture.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Here’s the thing: you’ll find that the more vibrant the veggies in the sauce, the brighter the flavor of the soup. So, keep the veggies in their natural shapes. If you’re making a creamy sauce, you can puree them with a food processor or blender. But if you’re preferring a chunkier texture, leave them as is.
Once the veggies are in the pot, you’ll add the chicken broth and milk/cream. Bring it to a simmer, and then let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the veggies are tender and smooth. You have your perfectly proportioned sauce.
3. Choose the Noodles
Noodles are the stars of the show in chicken noodle soup. They’re what give the dish its name and texture. But not all noodles are created equal. Here are a few tips for choosing the perfect noodles:
- angel hair or fettuccine: These are the thinnest noodles and cook quickly, making them great for a hearty soup.
- penne or rotini: These have a bit more substance and hold up well in the soup.
- wide strips (like farfalle or fusilli): These are fun to toss around in the soup and add a nice texture.
Here’s the thing: you’ll find that the type of noodle you choose will define the flavor profile of your soup. So, go with what you have on hand or what you prefer. Either way, you’re going to love how these noodles cook up in your soup.
4. Add Your Veggies and Herbs (Optional)
If you have time, you can add extra veggies and herbs to your soup. These will complement the chicken and noodles and add a burst of flavor. Some great options include:
- celery
- parsley
- thyme
- basil
- pepper (dried or fresh)
Here’s the thing: you’ll find that fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add a fresh,herbal note to the soup, making it more than just a simple comfort food. Plus, they’re a great way to make the soup more visually appealing.
5. Mix It All Together
Now comes the fun part: combining everything into a delicious bowl of soup. Start by adding the noodles to the sauce, stirring until they’re fully coated. Then, toss in the shredded chicken and any extra veggies or herbs you included.
Here’s the thing: you’ll find that the more you mix, the better the flavors meld together. So, don’t be afraid to give it a good stir. The longer you let the soup sit, the more the flavors will meld, creating a rich,complex taste.
Optional Additions
If you want to elevate your chicken noodle soup, you can add a few extra touches:
- cheese: If you’re making a creamy sauce, you can sprinkle in some shredded cheese at the end for a cheesy kick.
- tomatoes: You can puree a couple of tomatoes to add extra depth to the sauce.
- chili flakes or hot sauce: If you want to add a bit of zip to the soup, these are great additions.
Final Thoughts
Making the best chicken noodle soup is easier than you think once you break it down into these steps. Start with fresh chicken, make a flavorful sauce, choose the perfect noodles, and add in some extra veggies and herbs for extra flavor. The result? A hearty, comforting dish that will hit the spot.
And here’s the kicker: if you follow these tips, you’ll be making the best chicken noodle soup every time. So, grab your ingredients, get to work, and soon you’ll be enjoying a bowl of warmth and comfort.
And remember, the best soups are the ones you make yourself. So, roll up your sleeves, pour a little broth, and get to cooking. Your family will thank you for making the best chicken noodle soup around.