Chicken.Noodle Soup Recipe

I often find myself craving something both comforting and quick after a long day, and this chicken.noodle soup recipe fits the bill perfectly. Its golden broth, infused with saffron and bright lemon, promises a sensory delight even before the first spoonful. This recipe is your practical solution for ultimate comfort, perfect for parents, busy bees, and anyone seeking a heartwarming meal. It’s nutritious, fast, and utterly delicious, providing a feel-good chicken.noodle soup recipe with minimal effort tonight.

Ingredient Essentials With Health Focus

For this delightful chicken.noodle soup recipe, we focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients that build deep flavor and provide excellent nutritional benefits. Opt for halal-certified chicken broth if possible, or a high-quality vegetable broth for a delicious base. My personal trick for this chicken.noodle soup recipe is to use organic chicken breasts or thighs; I find they shred beautifully and add incredible flavor, especially when I’m aiming for a truly comforting bowl.

• Broth: 1.5 litres (6 cups) halal-certified chicken broth or vegetable broth, the backbone of our flavorful soup. (Swap: low-sodium for heart-healthy options)
• Chicken: 500 g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) pieces, for high-protein sustenance. (Swap: use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick meal prep shortcut)
• Aromatics: 2 medium carrots, 2 celery stalks, 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced for a classic flavor foundation; 3 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic depth.
• Olive Oil: 30 ml (2 tablespoons) for sautéing, plus 60 ml (1/4 cup) for a vibrant herb oil. Choose extra virgin for best flavor.
• Noodles: 200 g (7 oz) medium egg noodles or ditalini pasta, providing comforting texture. (Swap: gluten-free noodles for dietary needs)
• Saffron: 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crumbled, for its distinct golden color and subtle floral notes.
• Fresh Herbs: 5 g (1/4 cup) fresh parsley and 3 g (1/4 cup) fresh mint, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish, for bright, fresh flavor.
• Lemon: 1 large lemon, zest and juice, for acidity and zestful aroma.
• Sumac: 1 teaspoon sumac, plus extra for garnish, adding a unique tangy, almost lemony flavor.
• Pine Nuts: 30 g (1 oz) pine nuts, toasted, for a buttery crunch and nutty aroma.
• Seasoning: 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste.

Notes on seasonal or sustainable sourcing: Opt for local, seasonal vegetables when they are at their peak for the freshest taste. Choosing pasture-raised chicken where possible also enhances both flavor and ethical sourcing.

Keto/Paleo Options

To adapt this recipe for specific diet goals, embrace ingredient swaps. For keto or paleo diets, replace traditional noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. You can also boost vegetable content by adding riced cauliflower, keeping the soup hearty and satisfying without the carbs.

Vegan Options

Creating a vegan version of this comforting chicken.noodle soup recipe is simple and delicious. Swap the chicken for hearty chickpeas or cannellini beans for plant-based protein. Ensure you use a high-quality vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a truly vegan meal.

Gluten-Free Options

For those sensitive to gluten, easily adapt this chicken.noodle soup recipe by choosing gluten-free noodles or rice. There are many excellent varieties of gluten-free pasta available today that hold up well in soup, ensuring everyone can enjoy a warm, wholesome bowl.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making this golden saffron-sumac chicken.noodle soup recipe is a rewarding experience, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet-level comfort food. I often use my trusty 5-quart Dutch oven for this, as it distributes heat evenly and looks lovely on the stovetop.

1. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat 30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 7-8 minutes until softened and slightly translucent, but not browned.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until wonderfully fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, watching for gentle bubbles at the surface. Add the chicken pieces and saffron threads. Reduce heat to low, cover, and gently simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F).
4. While the chicken simmers, prepare the vibrant herb oil: In a small bowl or food processor, combine 60 ml (1/4 cup) olive oil, finely chopped parsley (5g), finely chopped mint (3g), and the zest of half a lemon. Blend until smooth and vibrant green. Set aside, ready for a fresh finish.
5. In a dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the pine nuts for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning; if they start to darken too quickly, remove the skillet from heat immediately. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot using a slotted spoon. Shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, ready to combine with the rich broth of this chicken.noodle soup recipe.
7. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until they are al dente and tender.
8. Stir in the juice of half a lemon, 1 teaspoon sumac, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
9. To serve, ladle the hot soup into deep bowls. Swirl a generous tablespoon of the vibrant green herb oil, scatter the toasted pine nuts, and garnish with fresh parsley and mint. Dust a light ring of sumac powder around the inner edge for a striking finish.

Hacks for faster cooking: Use pre-cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for a substantial time-saver. You can also opt for a pre-chopped mirepoix mix of onions, carrots, and celery from your grocery store, shaving off prep time significantly. These hacks ensure your chicken.noodle soup recipe comes together quickly.

Quick ‘avoid mistakes’ callouts: Avoid overcooking noodles, which can make them mushy and absorb too much broth; cook them just until al dente. Also, do not boil the broth too aggressively once the noodles are added to preserve the delicate flavors and noodle texture.

Best Occasions & Serving Suggestions

A classic homemade soup brings comfort. It’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, sick days, or easy office lunches.

• Pairings: Crusty sourdough bread, a simple green salad.
• Toppings: Fresh parsley or dill, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Store leftovers in airtight containers; they keep 3-4 days in the fridge. For freezing, separate broth/veggies from noodles (up to 3 months). Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Functional Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Making a homemade chicken noodle soup offers many benefits. Wholesome ingredients provide sustained energy, and protein/fiber contribute to satiety. This healthy dinner recipe is hydrating, nutrient-dense, and supports muscle health for overall wellness.

Budget & Time Efficiency

This easy soup recipe is designed for your wallet and schedule. Expect about 15 minutes prep and 25-30 minutes cooking. I find it perfect for a quick high-protein snack.

Approximate cost is $2-3 per serving. Save by using frozen chicken or store-brand noodles. Double the recipe for easy meal prep and grab-and-go meals.

Ingredient Shopping & Premium Picks

Find staples at your supermarket and fresh veggies at farmers’ markets. Consider organic chicken. Explore online grocery delivery for convenience or specialty stores for unique noodle varieties.

Advanced Tips & Adaptations

Elevate your classic soup with turmeric, fresh ginger, or dry white wine. It adapts to different palates.

Kids:

Keep it simple with smaller noodles and bite-sized veggies. My kids love it when the carrots are extra soft.

Gourmet:

Use rich homemade bone broth or crème fraîche. This chicken noodle soup recipe is naturally dairy-free and nut-free. Adapt for gluten-free using gluten-free noodles.

FAQs

“Can chicken noodle soup recipe be prepped ahead for the week?”

Yes! Prep broth and cooked chicken ahead. For best texture, I recommend adding noodles just before serving or storing them separately.

“Where can I order chicken noodle soup online?”

Check local delis, grocery stores offering fresh soup delivery, or meal kit services for convenient options.

“What’s the healthiest substitute for egg noodles in chicken noodle soup recipe?”

Zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or gluten-free rice are excellent for low-carb and gluten-free diets.

“Is chicken noodle soup recipe good for weight loss diets?”

Absolutely! This wholesome dish is hydrating, high in lean protein, and low in calories when packed with vegetables.

“How long does homemade chicken noodle soup recipe last?”

It lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze broth and veggies separately for up to 3 months.

“Can I make chicken noodle soup recipe in a slow cooker?”

Yes! Combine all ingredients except noodles and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir noodles in during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

This chicken noodle soup recipe is the ultimate blend of comfort, health, and convenience, making it a perfect easy dinner for your family. Pin this wonderful recipe now for your next cozy and nourishing meal!

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