This Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
I love how easy it is to make, just toss everything together and let it simmer. Plus, the smell alone will make your house feel cozy. Grab a spoon and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor to the soup. You can use butter or another oil like coconut oil, depending on what you have at home.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just fine. For a lighter option, you could use vegetable broth or even water with added spices.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and zucchini are classics in this soup. Feel free to swap in veggies like peas or green beans if you’re looking for variety!
Noodles: Egg noodles are perfect for chicken noodle soup, but you can also use whole wheat noodles or gluten-free options if needed.
How Do I Get the Vegetables Just Right in My Soup?
Cooking the vegetables properly is key to a cozy chicken noodle soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning the onions. Cook until they’re clear, about 3-4 minutes.
- When adding garlic and the other veggies, let them soften without losing their crunch, usually around 5 minutes.
- Don’t skip the simmer time for the broth and veggies; this lets the flavors come together beautifully.
Following these steps will give you that perfect balance of tender yet slightly crisp vegetables that makes this soup so yummy! Enjoy every spoonful! 😊
Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups egg noodles or small pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making the total time about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will add a lovely base flavor to your soup.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. You can smell the goodness already!
3. Bring It to a Boil:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. It’s the time when all those flavors start mingling beautifully!
4. Add Chicken and Herbs:
Once boiling, add in the shredded cooked chicken, dried thyme, rosemary if you’re using it, and some salt and pepper. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to develop all the flavors.
5. Noodles and Zucchini Time:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped zucchini and your noodles. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for another 7-8 minutes until the noodles are tender.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Don’t forget to taste your soup! Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. This is where you can make it truly your own!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve your hearty Chicken Noodle Soup hot. Enjoy!
Warm up with this delicious, homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables. It’s sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver! Just add them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking so they retain their flavor and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any small pasta like bowtie or shells. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or quinoa instead!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, adding in extra vegetables like mushrooms or beans for more protein and texture.
