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There’s nothing like a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup to bring comfort and warmth to your day. This recipe is a simple take on the classic, with a bright twist of fresh lemon to elevate the flavors. Whether you’re battling a cold or just craving a cozy meal, this soup is quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to hit the spot.

As always, I won’t bore you with stories and take up your time… straight to the recipe! Let’s dive in!

Grandma's Chicken Noodle Soup

Nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup when you’re craving comfort or fighting off a cold. This simple recipe stays true to the classic but adds a bright twist with fresh lemon and herbs. It's quick, delicious, and perfect for any day of the week!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Equipment

1 Large soup pot
1 Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

6 cups Chicken broth
1 cup Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie-style is easiest)
2 cups Wide egg noodles
1 cup Carrots thinly sliced
1 cup Celery chopped
1 Small onion diced
2 Garlic cloves minced
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 tsp Dried thyme
1 Bay leaf
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp Fresh parsley optional
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add the broth and spices: Pour in chicken broth. Stir in thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Cook the noodles: Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
Add chicken: Stir in shredded chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through, or allow it simmer for longer for a richer flavor and more tender chicken.
Finish with lemon: Turn off the heat, stir in the fresh lemon juice, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish and serve: Top with fresh parsley for extra flavor and serve hot!

Notes

This chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food with a refreshing twist from fresh lemon juice. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for any occasion, from chilly nights to sick days. Using rotisserie chicken keeps it simple, while egg noodles add that classic, satisfying texture.

Note: To put your own twist on it, try swapping egg noodles for rice or gluten-free pasta, adding fresh dill or basil for extra flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal! 🐓🍋🍲

Keyword chicken noodle soup, easy chicken noodle soup recipe

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Broth: The backbone of this soup, chicken broth provides a rich, savory base. Opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness or homemade for extra flavor.

Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a game-changer for this recipe. It’s convenient, flavorful, and adds tender bites of protein to the soup.

Egg Noodles: These wide noodles soak up the broth beautifully, adding a hearty and satisfying texture.

Fresh Lemon Juice: This brightens up the flavors, cutting through the richness of the broth and giving the soup a refreshing twist.

Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme and bay leaf provide warmth and depth, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Tools of the Trade

Here’s what you’ll need to make this soup effortlessly:

Large Soup Pot: Big enough to hold all your ingredients and ensure even cooking.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping the vegetables and herbs.
Wooden Spoon or Ladle: Perfect for stirring and serving.

Tips for Success

Here are some extra tips to make your soup shine:

Build Layers of Flavor: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth enhances their sweetness and aroma.
Perfect Noodles: Cook the egg noodles until just tender to avoid mushiness. They’ll continue to absorb broth as the soup sits.
Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in stages, tasting as you go to ensure balanced seasoning.
Lemon Love: Don’t skip the fresh lemon juice; it’s the secret ingredient that makes this soup special.

Custom Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Gluten-Free Option: Use rice or gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use chickpeas or tofu as a protein substitute.
Herb Swap: Fresh dill or basil can replace parsley for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Complete your meal with these pairing ideas:

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
Side Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the warmth of the soup.
Grilled Cheese: A gooey, cheesy sandwich takes comfort to the next level.

Storage and Reheating

Make the most of your leftovers with these tips:

Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Freezing: Freeze the soup without the noodles, as they tend to become mushy. Add fresh noodles when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use homemade chicken broth? Absolutely! Homemade broth will add an extra depth of flavor and make the soup even more comforting.

What can I use instead of egg noodles? You can swap them for rice, quinoa, or any pasta you prefer.

How do I make it dairy-free? This soup is naturally dairy-free, but be sure to use dairy-free bread or toppings if serving alongside.

Can I add more vegetables? Of course! Try adding spinach, zucchini, or peas for extra nutrition and color.

Closing Note

This chicken noodle soup recipe is a true comfort classic with a refreshing twist. Whether you’re serving it to loved ones or enjoying it solo, it’s a versatile dish that’s easy to adapt and impossible to resist. Grab your ladle and dive into a bowl of warmth and goodness today!

Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe