This Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, bright veggies, and hearty noodles, it’s comfort food at its best.
When I make this soup, my kitchen smells amazing, and I can’t help but sneak a spoonful! It’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a cozy pick-me-up.
For me, the best part is how easy it is to prepare. Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well for sautéing the vegetables. Olive oil adds a hint of flavor, while butter gives a rich taste. If you need a dairy-free option, simply stick with olive oil.
Vegetables: The classic trio of onion, celery, and carrots offers great base flavors. You can swap in frozen mixed vegetables or add spinach and peas for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you’re cooking from scratch, use thighs for a juicier result or leftover turkey works if you have it!
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to use any noodles like rotini or even whole-grain options for more fiber. Adjust cooking time based on what you choose.
How Can I Make Sure My Veggies Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the vegetables just right is crucial to a tasty soup! You want them tender, not mushy. Follow these steps:
- Start by heating the oil/butter and adding onions, celery, and carrots first. Cook them on medium heat until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Add garlic at the end of this step for maximum flavor, cooking just until fragrant.
By cooking your vegetables this way, they’ll keep their texture and make for a heartier soup!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup with Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 cups egg noodles or wide noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, making a total time of around 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, sprinkle in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma will be wonderful!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Next, add the 8 cups of chicken broth to the pot and bring everything to a lovely boil.
4. Mix in Chicken and Herbs:
Add the cooked shredded chicken, dried thyme, dried parsley, and the optional bay leaf. Reduce the heat and allow the soup to simmer gently for about 15 minutes, so the flavors can blend together beautifully.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Now it’s time to add the noodles! Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, or until they’re tender.
6. Final Seasoning:
Once the noodles are done, remove the bay leaf (if you used one) and season your soup with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it another gentle stir.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It’s time to enjoy your homemade Chicken Noodle Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a convenient option. Just add them directly to the pot after sautéing the onion, celery, and carrots, and adjust the cooking time slightly until they’re heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you prefer a different type of noodle, you can use whole wheat pasta, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary from traditional egg noodles.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, as the noodles can absorb some of the liquid over time.
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Shred the chicken off the bone and add it straight into the soup to save time without sacrificing flavor.
