Chicken noodle soup, a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries, is known for its warm and comforting broth, tender chicken, and flavorful noodles. While it may seem daunting to make from scratch, the basic chicken noodle soup recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a soothing remedy for a cold, this simple recipe will guide you through the process.
The beauty of basic chicken noodle soup lies in its versatility. You can customize it with different vegetables, spices, and noodles to suit your preferences. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables, reducing waste and making the most of your ingredients.
Before we dive into the details, let’s gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, a knife, and some measuring cups and spoons. For the ingredients, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, egg noodles, salt, and pepper.
How To Make
Making basic chicken noodle soup is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in under an hour. Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place the chicken breast in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred or dice the chicken and set it aside.
- Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and bring to a simmer. Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips or Possible Variation
To enhance the flavor of your basic chicken noodle soup, you can add various spices and herbs. Some popular options include garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. You can also add different vegetables, such as peas, corn, or green beans.
If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, macaroni, or shells. You can also use rice or barley instead of noodles for a different texture.
If you want a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the soup. Whisk together equal parts cornstarch and water until smooth, then gradually add it to the boiling soup, stirring constantly until the desired consistency is reached.
Basic chicken noodle soup is a versatile and delicious recipe that can be enjoyed in countless ways. It’s perfect for cold winter days, as a quick and easy weeknight meal, or as a comforting remedy for a cold. With endless possibilities for customization, you can create a basic chicken noodle soup recipe that suits your taste preferences perfectly.
So, next time you’re craving a warm and comforting meal, reach for this simple and satisfying recipe. With its ease of preparation and customizable nature, basic chicken noodle soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
