Imagine a bowl of steaming broth, tender chicken, and perfectly chewy egg noodles hugging every sip. Thats exactly what youll get with this homemade chicken noodle soup with egg noodlesno fuss, no mystery, just pure comfort in 3045 minutes. Lets dive right in.
Why This Soup Wins
Theres a reason we keep reaching for this dish when the weather turns cold or when we need a little pick-me-up. Its not just nostalgia; its actually better for you and tastier than the canned stuff you find on the shelf.
Egg Noodles Are Perfect
Egg noodles have a higher protein content than regular wheat pasta, giving them a sturdier bite that doesnt turn mushy in broth. Their slightly richer texture also absorbs the flavor of the stock, creating that chewy-good feeling you love.
Quick DIY EggNoodle Hack (5minute version)
- Whisk together 1 cup allpurpose flour, 1 large egg, and a pinch of salt.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, roll thin, and cut into inch strips.
- Dust the strips with a bit more flour and set aside.
- Drop the fresh noodles into the simmering soup for just 2 minutes before serving.
HealthSmart Swaps
If youre watching sodium, adjust your broth choices, or make your own stock. And for a no-vegetable version, simply skip the carrots and celeryadd a splash of fresh herbs for flavor instead.
StepbyStep Recipe
Ready to get cooking? Below is an easy chicken noodle soup recipe that even a kitchen rookie can master. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to match what you have on hand.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Whole chicken or rotisserie chicken | 1lb (about 2cups shredded) | Provides rich collagen and flavor for the stock. |
| Homemade chicken stock | 6cups | Lowsodium base thats full of depth. |
| Egg noodles (fresh or dried) | 8oz | Chewy texture that holds broth well. |
| Carrots, celery, onion (optional) | 1cup each | Classic mirepoix for aromatic richness. |
| Fresh thyme & parsley | 2tbsp each, chopped | Bright finish and antioxidant boost. |
| Olive oil | 1tbsp | Saut base for mirepoix. |
| Salt & pepper | to taste | Balancing flavor. |
| Lemon juice (optional) | 1 tsp | Adds a subtle zing. |
Preparation Steps
- Make the stock. If you have time, simmer chicken bones with aromatics for 45 minutes. Otherwise, use a lowsodium storebought broth.
- Saut the mirepoix. Heat olive oil in a large pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Combine broth and veggies. Pour the stock into the pot, bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the egg noodles. Add the noodles directly to the simmering soup. Cook 68 minutes, or until just al dente.
- Shred the chicken. If using a whole bird, remove the meat, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Season and finish. Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice if you like a brighter note.
- Serve. Ladle into bowls, let the steam do its comforting magic, and enjoy!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Noodles getting mushy? Reduce cooking time by 2 minutes or add them at the very end of the simmer.
- Broth too salty? Dilute with a bit of water or unsalted stock; a squeeze of lemon also helps balance the flavor.
- Want to freeze? Separate the noodles from the broth, freeze the broth in airtight containers, and add fresh noodles when reheating.
Egg Noodles vs. Other Pasta (Comparison)
| Pasta Type | Cook Time in Soup | Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egg noodles | 68min | Chewy | Classic chicken noodle soup |
| Rotini | 45min | Firm | Hearty, chunky soups |
| Rice noodles | 23min | Soft | Glutenfree option |
Flavorful Variations
One of the joys of a good soup is how easily you can tweak it to suit your mood. Below are a few twists that keep the core of oldfashioned homemade chicken noodle soup with egg noodles fresh and exciting.
Jamie OliverStyle Creamy Version
Jamie adds a splash of white wine, a handful of crme frache, and a pinch of nutmeg. The result is a velvety broth that feels like a hug from the inside. If youre curious, you can find his exact method on the Jamie Oliver recipe page.
Grandmas Secret RoastBone Stock
My grandma swore by roasting the chicken bones at 425F before simmering. The caramelized bits give the broth a deep, almost smoky flavor thats impossible to replicate with plain water.
Spicy AsianFusion Kick
Stir in a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) and a few crushed red-pepper flakes. Top with sliced scallions and a drizzle of sesame oil for a soup that warms you from the belly up.
5Ingredient Busy Night Version
When youre short on time, grab a rotisserie chicken, lowsodium broth, precooked egg noodles, frozen mixed veggies (or skip them), and good old salt & pepper. Youll have a bowl of comfort on the table in fifteen minutes flat.
Nutrition & Safety
Beyond the comforting taste, this soup packs a solid nutritional punchand with a few safety habits, it stays wholesome from pot to plate.
Nutrition Snapshot (per 1cup serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Sodium | 350mg | 15% |
| VitaminA | 15% | |
| Iron | 6% |
*Based on a 2,000calorie diet.
Balancing Benefits & Risks
Benefits: The chicken supplies lean protein and collagen; the broth keeps you hydrated; the herbs add antioxidants. Risks: Oversalting can raise blood pressure, and undercooked chicken is a foodborne hazard.
TrustBuilding FoodSafety Checklist
- Use fresh, highquality chicken (the USDA recommends checking the sellby date).
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165F; a quick tipinsert an instantread thermometer into the thickest piece.
- Keep the soup hot (>140F) until served.
- Store leftovers within two hours in airtight containers, refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for three months.
For detailed safety guidelines, the CDC food safety guide is an excellent reference.
Quick FAQs
How long does homemade chicken noodle soup keep? Refrigerated, it stays fresh for up to four days; frozen, three months (just keep noodles separate).
Can I make it without vegetables? Absolutelyjust broth, chicken, and egg noodles, plus herbs for flavor.
Whats the difference between egg noodles and regular pasta in soup? Egg noodles retain a tender bite and absorb broth better, giving a richer mouthfeel.
Is homemade stock healthier than storebought? Generally, yesyoure in control of sodium and can add collagen-rich bones for extra nutrition.
Whats the fastest way to get noodle-ready soup? Use rotisserie chicken and precooked egg noodles; youll have dinner on the table in about 15 minutes.
Conclusion
There you have ita complete guide to homemade chicken noodle soup with egg noodles that blends tradition with a dash of creativity. Whether youre seeking the best chicken noodle soup recipe, a quick weeknight fix, or a nostalgic bowl that reminds you of grandmas kitchen, this soup delivers on flavor, nutrition, and comfort. Give one of the variations a try, experiment with your own twists, and share the warmth with friends and family. Happy cooking, and may every spoonful bring you a little more coziness!
FAQs
How long should I cook the egg noodles in the soup?
Drop the noodles into the simmering broth and cook for about 6‑8 minutes, or until just al dente. Add them a few minutes earlier if you prefer a softer bite.
Can I use store‑bought chicken broth instead of homemade stock?
Yes. Choose a low‑sodium variety or make a quick stock by simmering chicken bones for 20‑30 minutes. Adjust the salt level as needed.
What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Cool the soup within two hours, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for three months (keep noodles separate for best texture).
What healthy swaps can I make in this recipe?
Use low‑sodium broth, add extra herbs for flavor, swap carrots and celery for fresh greens, or replace egg noodles with whole‑grain or gluten‑free pasta.
How can I make the soup gluten‑free?
Simply use gluten‑free egg noodles or rice noodles and ensure your broth and any added seasonings are certified gluten‑free.
