Chicken Noodle Or Rice Soup
A comforting chicken noodle or rice soup with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables, perfect for nourishing and satisfying family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and wash the chicken necks or backs in a cooking pot.
- Add the chicken parts to 1 1/2 gallons of water and cook until the meat comes from the bone.
- Remove the meat and any bones left in the water.
- Let the meat cool and set aside.
- Add the chopped onions, celery, salt, pepper, and the noodles or rice to the broth.
- Cook until the noodles or rice are tender.
- Return the cooked chicken meat to the soup before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the noodles or rice with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, especially if using a salty chicken base. This recipe is versatile; feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or corn for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Jeanie's Cheese Potatoes for a comforting meal. Consider serving with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete dinner. This chicken noodle soup is a classic that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Noodle Or Rice Soup contains roughly 896 calories, with 21g protein, 205g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (213% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different parts of the chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts instead of necks or backs. Just ensure that the chicken is cooked until tender and can easily be pulled from the bone, as this will enhance the flavor of the broth.
How can I make this soup healthier?
To make the soup healthier, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or reducing the amount of salt you add. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrients without significantly altering the flavor.
Can I freeze this chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).