Mary'S Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
A hearty, comforting homemade chicken noodle soup featuring tender chicken, flavorful broth, fresh vegetables, and noodles, perfect for soothing any cold or cozying up on a chilly day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken in a large pot for 1 hour, or until tender. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, chopped onion, chicken bouillon, peppercorns, and bay leaf to the chicken broth.
- Cut up the cooked chicken and return it to the broth.
- Add noodles to the simmering broth and chicken mixture.
- Simmer the soup for 2 to 3 hours, until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
- Adjust salt, pepper, and other ingredients to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the whole chicken. For a gluten-free version, swap out the noodles for rice or quinoa. Remember to keep the broth at a gentle simmer to meld the flavors without boiling too aggressively.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting soup can be served with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with a serving of Easy Cheese And Broccoli Soup. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. Enjoy it on a chilly evening for a warm and satisfying dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to leave out the noodles before freezing, as they can become mushy. When ready to eat, add fresh noodles while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup contains roughly 88 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1992mg per serving (87% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to boil it for a longer time to ensure it's cooked through. It’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator beforehand if you have time, as this helps maintain the texture of the meat.
What type of noodles work best in this soup?
Egg noodles are traditionally used in chicken noodle soup for their soft texture and ability to absorb flavor. However, you can also use whole wheat noodles or gluten-free alternatives depending on your dietary preferences.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or paprika to enhance the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish.
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).