Imagine a steaming bowl of pure comfort that instantly transports you to grandma's kitchen - that's exactly what Mary's Classic Chicken Noodle Soup delivers! This timeless American recipe is more than just a meal; it's a heartwarming experience that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and delicate egg noodles in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you're battling a cold, seeking comfort on a chilly day, or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this soup promises to be your ultimate culinary hug.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the vegetable mixture. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the herbs infuse into the broth for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot and simmer for 5-7 minutes to warm the chicken and meld the flavors.
- Stir in the egg noodles and cook for 6-8 minutes or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or additional black pepper.
Tips
- Use high-quality chicken broth for the most robust flavor - homemade is best, but a good store-bought brand works wonderfully.
- Don't overcook the noodles! They should be tender but still have a slight bite. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness.
- For extra flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken instead of plain boiled chicken.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the soup's aroma and taste. Sprinkle some just before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of flour when sautéing the vegetables to create a slightly more substantial broth.
- Make sure to season gradually and taste as you go - this helps build layers of flavor and prevents over-salting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
